When you think of good old-fashioned Southern comfort food, chicken salad is probably the head of that list—especially here in the state of Alabama, where family recipes have been passed down across generations. On a sandwich, wrapped, or plain with crackers or greens, Alabama chicken salad is simple, creamy, and flavorful.
Today in this website, we are sharing with you a simple and classic Alabama Chicken Salad Recipe that you can present in any occasion at home or at family event, weeknight dinner, or summer picnic at the park during summer time.
Ingredients Needed
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked chicken breast | 3 cups (shredded) |
| Mayonnaise | ¾ cup |
| Celery (finely diced) | 2 stalks |
| Red onion (optional) | ¼ cup (diced) |
| Sweet pickle relish | 2 tablespoons |
| Hard-boiled eggs | 2 (chopped) |
| Dijon mustard | 1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Paprika | ¼ teaspoon |
Step-by-Step: How to Prepare Alabama Chicken Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Boil or bake your chicken breasts until. Shred them, cooled, into very small, bite-sized pieces. Rotisserie chicken may be substituted for added flavor and convenience.
Step 2: Dice and Chop
Dice the onion, the celery, and hard-boiled eggs. Cut all of them to the same dimensions so you’re getting an even bite.
Step 3: Mix the Base
Mix the mayonnaise, mustard, relish, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika together in a big bowl. Mix everything together to make a smooth creamy mixture.
Step 4: Mix Everything
Chopped vegetables, shredded chicken, and eggs will be added into the creamy dressing. Mix well to coat them all.
Step 5: Chill and Serve
Chill and refrigerate salad at least 1 hour so that flavors will meld. Serve cold on greens, on sandwich, or with crackers.
Serving Suggestions
- Sandwiches: Lettuce and tomato on toasted whole wheat or white bread.
- Crackers or Toast: Great snack or appetizer.
- Lettuce Wraps: Great low-carb alternative.
- With Fruit: Serve with apple, melon, or grapes for sweet pairing.
Tips and Variations
- For extra creaminess, add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream and stir.
- Spice it up with cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Add crunch by stirring in slivered almonds or chopped pecans.
- Add sweetness with chopped apples or dried cranberries.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerate in an air-tight container for 3–4 days. Do not freeze, as mayonnaise-based salads will separate when thawed.
Nutrition Estimate (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 5g |
| Fat | 19g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 2g |
Note: These are approximate values. Adjust based on ingredients used.
Final Thoughts
This Alabama Chicken Salad Recipe is a full-bodied, rich one with a history. Depth of taste, adaptation to variation, and ease of ingredients have made it a family favorite throughout the South—and now you can add some little bit of Alabama to your table too.
Whether you serve it on a Sunday brunch, picnic, or lunchbox, this chicken salad will not disappoint. Try it today and taste the tradition of elegance that is Southern cooking for yourself!