The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the essence of Southern comfort food, look no further than The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe. This delightful dish combines tender chicken with crunchy vegetables and a creamy dressing, creating a salad that’s perfect for a light lunch, a picnic, or a refreshing side at any gathering. With the convenience of a rotisserie chicken, you can whip this up in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. Let’s dive into the details!

Reasons to Love The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe

There are countless reasons to adore this chicken salad. First and foremost, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it on a bed of greens, as a sandwich filling, or even in a wrap. The combination of flavors and textures—from the crunchy celery to the sweet apple and the nutty almonds—creates a dish that is both satisfying and refreshing. Moreover, it’s a great way to use up leftover rotisserie chicken, making it a practical choice for any home cook. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Ingredient List

• 1 whole rotisserie chicken (about 5 cups chopped chicken)
• 1 ½ cups mayonnaise
• 1 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup diced apple (a firm variety works best)
• ½ cup sweet pickle relish
• ½ cup toasted almonds, chopped
• ½ cup chopped scallions
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh chopped dill
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Hardware & Gadgets

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients efficiently.
• Cutting board: Perfect for chopping your vegetables and chicken.
• Knife: A sharp knife will make slicing and dicing much easier.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the perfect balance of flavors.
• Serving dish: Choose something pretty to showcase your chicken salad when serving.

The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe: From Prep to Plate

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by removing the skin from the rotisserie chicken. Then, carefully shred or chop the meat into bite-sized pieces. You should have about 5 cups of chopped chicken. Place this in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Chop the Veggies and Fruits

Next, chop 1 cup of celery and dice 1 cup of your chosen firm apple. Add these to the bowl with the chicken. The crispness of the celery and the sweet crunch of the apple will add fantastic texture and flavor to the salad.

Step 3: Mix in the Extras

Add ½ cup of sweet pickle relish, ½ cup of toasted almonds, and ½ cup of chopped scallions to the chicken and vegetable mixture. The relish introduces a delightful sweetness, while the almonds provide a nutty crunch.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate bowl, combine 1 ½ cups of mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of fresh chopped dill, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and well combined. This creamy dressing will bring all the ingredients together beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetable mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the dressing. Be careful not to mush the chicken or apple pieces!

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. When you’re ready to serve, give it a gentle stir and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• Add dried cranberries or grapes for a sweet twist.
• Incorporate different nuts like walnuts or pecans for a flavor change.
• Use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise for a lighter option.
• Include diced bell peppers for an extra crunch and color.

Notes on Ingredients

Choosing a good-quality rotisserie chicken makes a significant difference in flavor. Opt for a chicken that is well-seasoned and moist. For the mayonnaise, you can use your favorite brand, and feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference for creaminess. When it comes to the apples, varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully due to their firmness and flavor balance.

Make Ahead Like a Pro

This chicken salad is perfect for meal prep! You can make it up to three days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness. If you’re planning to serve it later, consider adding the toasted almonds just before serving to keep their crunch.

The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe Q&A

Can I use leftover chicken instead of a rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover chicken works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded or chopped into bite-sized pieces.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be a great substitute for mayonnaise. It will give the salad a nice tangy flavor.

How long does this chicken salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe can last for about 3 to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze chicken salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze chicken salad as the texture of the ingredients may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Serve & Enjoy

This Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Serve it on a bed of greens for a light meal, pile it high on a sandwich for a hearty lunch, or enjoy it on crackers as a delightful snack. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, the combination of flavors and textures will surely make it a hit!

The Ultimate Southern Chicken Salad Recipe is more than just a dish; it’s a celebration of Southern flavors and comfort. Whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a quiet meal at home, or prepping for the week ahead, this chicken salad is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite, and share it with those you love!