Introduction

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a timeless comfort dish that reflects the heart of Southern home cooking. Simple, creamy, and deeply satisfying, this recipe relies on tender cooked chicken, rich mayonnaise, and a handful of classic ingredients that come together effortlessly.

This is the kind of chicken salad you’d find at church luncheons, family reunions, and Sunday suppers—made with care, chilled patiently, and served with love. It’s not fancy, but it’s perfect.

Why This Chicken Salad Is Special

• Classic Southern flavor with no shortcuts
• Simple pantry ingredients
• Perfect balance of creamy and crunchy
• Versatile for sandwiches, salads, or crackers
• Gets better as it chills

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, finely chopped or shredded
• ¾ cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
• ½ cup celery, finely chopped
• ¼ cup onion, finely chopped
• 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

Seasonings & Optional Garnish

• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Paprika, for garnish (optional)

Method & Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Place the cooked chicken into a large mixing bowl. Chicken may be roasted, boiled, or leftover—just be sure it is tender and finely chopped or gently shredded.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Base

Add the mayonnaise and yellow mustard to the chicken. Stir gently to coat the chicken evenly without breaking it down too much.

Step 3: Add Crunch & Flavor

Stir in the finely chopped celery, onion, and hard-boiled eggs. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Season to Taste

Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the mayonnaise if a creamier texture is desired.

Step 5: Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This resting time allows the flavors to blend and develop fully.

Step 6: Serve

Stir once more before serving. Sprinkle lightly with paprika if desired.

History of Southern Chicken Salad

Chicken salad has long been a staple in Southern kitchens, dating back to the early 20th century. It became popular as a way to stretch leftover chicken into a fresh, satisfying meal.

Served at luncheons, teas, and gatherings, Southern chicken salad traditionally avoided fancy ingredients, focusing instead on texture, balance, and homemade flavor. Eggs, celery, and mayonnaise became hallmarks of the classic version.

Benefits of Homemade Chicken Salad

• High in protein and satisfying
• Made with simple, recognizable ingredients
• No preservatives or artificial flavors
• Easy to customize
• Perfect for meal prep

Formation & Texture

This chicken salad forms through gentle mixing and chilling. The mayonnaise binds the ingredients, while celery and onion add light crunch. Eggs bring richness and body, creating a creamy yet structured salad that holds beautifully in sandwiches.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on white bread or toasted sandwich bread
• Perfect on croissants or biscuits
• Spoon over crisp lettuce for a classic plate
• Enjoy with crackers as a light snack

For the Lovers of Southern Comfort

This dish is for those who appreciate old recipes, handwritten notes, and food that brings people together. It’s for lovers of tradition, comfort, and flavors that never go out of style.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Southern Chicken Salad is a reminder that the best recipes don’t need embellishment. Creamy, comforting, and familiar, it’s a dish that belongs at every Southern table.

Make it once, and it will quickly become a go-to favorite for lunches, gatherings, and quiet moments of comfort.