Publix chicken salad is a classic Southern favorite—creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced. Known for its fresh ingredients and comforting taste, it’s a go-to deli item for many. Whether you’ve tried it before or want to recreate it at home, this recipe lets you enjoy that same deli-fresh flavor anytime. Ready to make your own? Let’s get started.
Introduction to Publix Chicken Salad Recipe
Publix chicken salad holds a special place in the hearts—and refrigerators—of many across the South. Found in the deli section of Publix supermarkets, this simple yet satisfying dish is known for its creamy texture, tender chicken, and just the right touch of crunch. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience, whether served on sandwich bread, crackers, or straight from the container.
What makes it stand out isn’t just the ingredients—it’s the consistency, freshness, and nostalgic flavor that reminds many of homemade family recipes. For those who crave that signature deli taste at home, recreating the Publix chicken salad is easier than you might think.
What Makes Publix Chicken Salad Unique?
Publix chicken salad may look simple, but its flavor and texture are anything but ordinary. What sets it apart is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and subtly sweet notes—all made from fresh, high-quality ingredients.
Fresh, Hand-Pulled Chicken:
Publix uses tender, white-meat chicken that’s shredded by hand, not ground or overly processed. This gives the salad a hearty, homemade feel with a satisfying bite.
Creamy and Smooth Texture:
The mayonnaise base is rich but not overpowering. It coats each piece of chicken without making the salad soggy. The ratio is just right, giving it a smooth, creamy consistency.
Crisp Celery for Crunch:
Small bits of celery add a fresh crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft chicken and creamy dressing. It’s a key ingredient that lifts the texture.
Subtle Seasoning:
The seasoning is mild but well-rounded—just enough salt, pepper, and sometimes a hint of sugar or onion powder to enhance flavor without masking the natural taste of the chicken.
No Unnecessary Add-Ins:
Unlike some chicken salads overloaded with grapes, nuts, or herbs, Publix keeps it clean and classic. This minimalist approach is what many fans appreciate—it’s chicken salad at its purest.
Ingredients Overview
To replicate the signature taste of Publix chicken salad at home, you need just a few simple, fresh ingredients. Each plays a key role in creating the creamy texture and classic flavor fans know and love.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Cooked Chicken (3 cups, shredded or chopped)
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or a rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. The chicken should be tender and moist, not dry or overcooked.
Mayonnaise (¾ to 1 cup)
Publix likely uses a full-fat mayonnaise for a rich, creamy base. Duke’s or Hellmann’s are great choices for that authentic Southern taste.
Celery (½ cup, finely diced)
Fresh celery adds a crunchy texture and subtle earthiness that balances the creaminess of the mayo.
Onion Powder (½ teaspoon)
Adds mild, savory depth without the sharp bite of raw onions.
Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Essential for bringing out all the flavors. Start small and adjust as needed after mixing.
Optional: Sugar (½ teaspoon)
Some variations include a tiny bit of sugar for a hint of sweetness. Add this only if you prefer that slightly sweet Publix-style flavor.
Ingredient Notes:
- Consistency: Adjust the mayo amount for your desired creaminess.
- Freshness: Use freshly cooked or store-bought rotisserie chicken for best results.
- No fillers: The beauty of Publix chicken salad is its simplicity—no grapes, nuts, or eggs needed.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making your own Publix-style chicken salad at home is easy, quick, and rewarding. Just follow these simple steps to get that smooth, flavorful, deli-fresh result.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Option 1: Poach 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in lightly salted water for about 15–20 minutes or until fully cooked. Let them cool, then shred or chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Option 2: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and added flavor. Remove skin and bones, then shred or chop the meat.
- Tip: Shredding the chicken by hand gives a better texture than using a food processor.
Step 2: Dice the Celery
Wash and finely dice 2–3 celery ribs (about ½ cup). The pieces should be small so they blend well without overpowering the salad.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large bowl, combine:
- ¾ to 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ teaspoon sugar for subtle sweetness
Tip: Add mayonnaise gradually so you can control the creaminess.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Add the chopped/shredded chicken and diced celery to the bowl with the dressing. Mix gently until everything is evenly coated and well combined.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 1–2 hours. This helps the flavors meld and gives the salad its signature cold, creamy texture.
Step 6: Serve
Serve chilled as a sandwich, in a wrap, on crackers, or over a bed of greens.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Salad
Creating a Publix-style chicken salad is all about paying attention to the small details. These tips will help you get the ideal texture, consistency, and flavor every time.
Use Fresh, Moist Chicken
Dry or overcooked chicken will make your salad bland and crumbly. Use freshly poached or rotisserie chicken for moist, tender bites. If cooking at home, don’t overboil—gentle poaching keeps the chicken juicy.
Shred by Hand for Best Texture
Hand-shredding gives the salad that deli-style consistency—soft yet chunky. Avoid using a food processor, which can make the chicken too fine or mushy.
Dice the Celery Finely
Cut celery into very small, uniform pieces. This adds crunch without overpowering the smoothness of the salad. Big chunks can disrupt the creamy bite Publix is known for.
Don’t Overdo the Mayo
Start with a smaller amount of mayo and add more only as needed. The goal is a creamy coating, not a soggy salad. A ¾ to 1 cup ratio per 3 cups of chicken usually works well.
Season Gently
Publix chicken salad is mild and balanced. Use just enough salt, black pepper, and onion powder to enhance flavor. If you like a touch of sweetness, add a pinch of sugar—no more than ½ teaspoon.
Chill Before Serving
Let the salad chill for at least 1–2 hours in the fridge. This allows the flavors to meld and helps achieve that cool, creamy texture Publix is known for.
Use Quality Mayonnaise
Since mayo is a main ingredient, go with a high-quality brand like Duke’s or Hellmann’s for the richest flavor.
Variations You Can Try
While the classic Publix chicken salad is simple and traditional, you can easily tweak the recipe to match your personal preferences. Whether you’re looking to lighten it up, add a touch of sweetness, or bring in some crunch, here are some delicious variations you can try:
Add Grapes for Sweetness
Halved red or green seedless grapes bring a sweet, juicy contrast to the creamy base. Add about ½ to ¾ cup per batch.
Great for those who enjoy a Chicken Salad Chick “Fancy Nancy” twist.
Toss in Chopped Nuts
Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or slivered almonds for a nutty flavor and added crunch. Toasting the nuts before adding them enhances their aroma and texture.
Make It Lighter
Swap some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt or light mayo. This reduces calories while adding a slight tang.
Try Fresh Herbs
Add a tablespoon of chopped parsley, dill, or chives for a fresh herbal note. Herbs brighten up the flavor without overpowering the original taste.
Include Diced Apples
For an extra crunch and sweetness, mix in finely diced apples—preferably crisp varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
Add Hard-Boiled Eggs
Chopped hard-boiled eggs can make the salad richer and more filling. Just one or two eggs can add creaminess and depth.
Go Spicy
If you like a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper, a spoonful of Dijon mustard, or even chopped pickled jalapeños.
Turn It Into a Wrap or Salad Bowl
Use the chicken salad as a base for wraps with lettuce and tomatoes, or serve over a bed of greens with sliced avocado for a low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Publix chicken salad is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for quick lunches, party trays, or light dinners. Whether you want something classic or a bit more creative, here are the best ways to serve it:
Classic Sandwich
Serve the chicken salad between two slices of soft white bread or buttery croissants. Add lettuce, tomato, or even a slice of cheese if you like, but it’s just as delicious on its own.
Ideal for picnics, lunchboxes, or a satisfying midday meal.
Lettuce Wraps
For a low-carb option, spoon the chicken salad into crisp lettuce leaves—like romaine or butter lettuce. It’s light, fresh, and perfect for a gluten-free meal.
On Crackers
Serve it on buttery Ritz crackers, whole grain crisps, or rice cakes for an easy snack or appetizer. This works great for parties or quick bites.
As a Salad Topper
Spoon a generous serving over a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Add some cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and hard-boiled egg for a protein-packed salad bowl.
In a Wrap
Roll the chicken salad in a flour tortilla or spinach wrap along with shredded lettuce and thinly sliced veggies for a hearty lunch wrap.
With Pita Bread or Flatbread
Scoop it into warm pita pockets or serve with grilled flatbread for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Stuffed Tomatoes or Avocados
Hollow out a tomato or halve an avocado and fill it with chicken salad for a healthy, eye-catching meal presentation.
Chicken Salad Sliders
Serve small portions on mini slider buns for a fun and crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage is key to keeping your homemade Publix-style chicken salad fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Here’s everything you need to know:
Refrigeration is a Must
Chicken salad contains perishable ingredients like cooked chicken and mayonnaise, which require refrigeration. Store it in an airtight container as soon as it’s prepared.
- Tip: Use a shallow container for quicker, even chilling.
How Long Does It Last?
When stored properly in the refrigerator (at or below 40°F / 4°C), chicken salad stays fresh for 3 to 4 days. After that, the texture can degrade, and the risk of spoilage increases.
Signs It’s Gone Bad
Discard the chicken salad if you notice:
- A sour or off smell
- Watery separation or change in texture
- Any discoloration
- Mold or visible spoilage
When in doubt, throw it out.
Can You Freeze It?
Freezing is not recommended for mayonnaise-based chicken salad. While it’s safe to freeze, the texture will likely separate and become watery once thawed, losing its creamy consistency.
If you must freeze it, do so without the mayo and celery. Add those fresh after thawing.
Best Practices
Always use clean utensils when scooping to avoid introducing bacteria. Label your container with the date it was made. Keep it chilled until ready to serve—especially for picnics or potlucks.
Conclusion
Publix-style chicken salad is a timeless, crowd-pleasing dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. With just a few simple ingredients and helpful tips, you can recreate that beloved deli flavor right at home. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this chicken salad is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you might never go back to store-bought again.
FAQS
Publix Chicken Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Cook chicken however desired (I often poach in my steamer or bake). Cool and cut into large (about 1") cubes. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine salt, basil, dill, lemon juice, white pepper, garlic and parsley with mayonnaise. Mix throughly.
- Stir celery, carrots, onion and chicken into mayonnaise mixture. Mix well.
- Cover and chill overnight or at least several hours before serving.