Servings: 4
Total Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: ~260
Macros (per serving):
Protein: 29g • Carbs: 3g (net) • Fat: 14g • Fiber: 1g
Intro
There’s nothing quite like a classic Southern chicken salad—cool, creamy, and endlessly comforting. This keto creamy Southern chicken salad gives you all the nostalgic flavor you love, but with a lightened-up, high-protein twist perfect for anyone living a low carb or Weight Watchers–friendly lifestyle.
If you’ve been craving a quick lunch option that feels wholesome, energizing, and deeply satisfying, this recipe is about to become your weekly staple. Packed with lean protein and made with clean, simple ingredients, it fits beautifully into keto and macro-friendly meal plans without sacrificing that rich Southern charm.
Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or whipping up an easy, nourishing dinner, this keto creamy Southern chicken salad delivers delicious results with minimal effort. Expect big flavor, zero fuss, and a refreshing bowl you’ll want on repeat.
Look at the Recipe
- Creamy, chunky texture with crisp celery and tender shredded chicken
- Bright, tangy flavor with a savory Southern-style finish
- Keto, low carb, high protein, and Weight Watchers friendly—perfect for healthy eating
Ingredients Needed
Chicken Salad Base
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken breast
- 2 ribs celery, finely diced
- 2 tbsp finely diced red onion
- 2 tbsp chopped dill pickles (or sugar-free relish)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Creamy Dressing
- ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (0% or 2%, your choice)
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise (or avocado mayo)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- Salt & pepper, to taste
How to Make Our Keto Creamy Southern Chicken Salad
- Prep the chicken. Shred cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. You can use rotisserie chicken, meal-prepped chicken, or quickly poach a few breasts.
- Mix the veggies. In a large bowl, combine the celery, red onion, parsley, and chopped pickles.
- Make the dressing. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine everything. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir well until fully coated and creamy.
- Taste and adjust. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if you prefer a brighter flavor.
- Chill for best texture. Refrigerate for at least 20–30 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
This macro-friendly chicken salad fits beautifully into keto, low carb, and Weight Watchers eating patterns while still giving you that classic Southern comfort.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
- Store: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Serve: Spoon into lettuce cups, pair with low carb crackers, or enjoy over mixed greens.
- Meal Prep: Divide into individual containers for grab-and-go lunches.
- Freezing: Not recommended—dairy-based dressings will separate.
Tips & FAQs
Can I make this chicken salad without mayo?
Yes—replace the mayo with additional Greek yogurt. The flavor will be lighter but still creamy.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience. For the highest protein, use cooked shredded chicken breast.
Can I add eggs?
Absolutely. Chopped hard-boiled eggs add richness and more protein while keeping it keto and low carb.
How do I keep it Weight Watchers friendly?
Use 0% Greek yogurt, light mayo, and lean chicken breast to keep points low.
Can I add nuts or fruit?
For keto: avoid fruit, but you can add chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.