Vintage Bites: Cousin Shirley's Summer Chicken Salad

 

Cousin Shirley’s Classic Chicken Salad A timeless summer favorite straight from a country farmhouse table Every summer, I would visit my 4th cousin, Shirley Utter Grout, for a day at her peaceful farm nestled in rural McDonald County, just south of Longview. The farm her parents owned is 140 acres with a farmhouse and outbuildings. Her parents, Claude and Lena Utter had fruit orchards and bailed hay on their land. I always looked forward to the welcome that awaited me—not just Shirley’s and her mama’s cheerful smile and many family stories, but the irresistible spread on her big farm table. The star of the show? Her cold, creamy, savory chicken salad is always served fresh for lunch. This recipe is a delightful blend of flavor and texture—tender bites of chicken mingled with crisp celery, sweet relish, and a hint of onion. Dijon mustard and lemon juice add just the right tang, while fresh herbs bring it all together. Enjoy it spooned onto your favorite sandwich bread with lettuce and sliced tomatoes, or simply on its own for a light, satisfying summer meal. “They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” — Acts 2:46 (NIV) Prep Time: 20 minutes  Serves: 10  Ingredients: 2 pounds skinless, boneless cooked chicken breast halves, shredded or cubed ¾ teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste) 1 cup mayonnaise (plus more if needed) ½ cup sour cream ¼ cup sweet relish 3 green onions, minced 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar (your choice) 1 teaspoon dried dill weed ½ cup finely chopped celery  Directions: Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, relish, green onions, parsley, Dijon mustard, lemon juice or vinegar, dill, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended. Combine with chicken: In a separate bowl, mix the cooked chicken and celery. Pour the dressing over and toss until evenly coated. Add extra mayo if desired for creaminess. Chill and serve: Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 2 days). Stir before serving. Choose Your Favorite Bread: Whether you're serving lunch on the porch or packing a picnic basket, the bread you choose makes all the difference. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy Cousin Shirley’s classic chicken salad—each one offering its own charm. Pair your chicken salad with the perfect base: Buttery Croissants Fresh-Baked Sourdough Homemade Biscuits Whole Grain or Multigrain Bread Mini Slider Buns Brioche Buns Rye or Pumpernickel Lettuce Wraps or Cucumber Boats Rustic Country White Bread Toasted English Muffins  Optional Add-Ins: Make it your own with any of these tasty extras: Diced red bell pepper Chopped apple or grapes Almonds or walnuts Dried cranberries or raisins Roasted garlic or hot sauce Fresh herbs of your choice Diced onion (instead of onion powder) Nutrition (Per Serving): Calories: 296 Total Fat: 22g Saturated Fat: 5g Cholesterol: 65mg Carbohydrates: 4g Sugars: 2g Fiber: 0g Protein: 20g No matter how you serve it, this chicken salad is sure to be a summer favorite—just like it was at Shirley’s farmhouse table. This chicken salad is more than just a dish—it’s a bite of summer memories shared with family and laughter at the farm table. Make a batch for your next picnic, family gathering, or a quiet lunch on the porch. It’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor—just like Cousin Shirley would want.         Bottom of Form