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This Carolina Chicken Salad is a classic Southern recipe made with tender shredded chicken, crisp celery, and a creamy pickle-mustard dressing. It’s quick to prepare, easy to customize, and perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or light lunches.
Why You’ll Love This Southern Chicken Salad
- Made with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced
- Ideal for meal prep, picnics, and gatherings
- Authentic Southern flavor with Duke’s mayonnaise
Recipe Details
- Servings: 6–8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Chill Time: 2–3 hours
Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked chicken breast, finely shredded
- 4 celery stalks, finely chopped
- ¼ cup sweet pickle cubes, finely chopped
- ¼ cup dill pickle cubes, finely chopped
- 3–4 tablespoons Duke’s mayonnaise
- 1½ tablespoons Dijon mustard
How to Make Carolina Chicken Salad
- Shred the cooked chicken into small pieces using your hands, a knife, or kitchen shears.
- Place the shredded chicken and chopped celery into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sweet pickles, dill pickles, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Add the dressing to the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 2–3 hours to allow the flavors to fully develop before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Southern chicken salad on toasted bread, croissants, or crackers, or enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a lighter option. It also makes an excellent make-ahead dish for lunches and parties.
Storage Tips
Store leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

