Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Twist

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Aniela Recipes Team

The first bite of this Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Dressing feels like a warm hug on a plate. Picture this: juicy, golden fried chicken resting on a bed of vibrant greens, fresh cucumbers, and crisp apples, all topped off with a drizzle of creamy buttermilk dressing that ties it all together. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a weekend gathering when I was tasked with bringing something unique to the table.

The combination of flavors and textures turned out to be a showstopper, and it didn t take long to see why. Not only does this salad boast a perfect balance of crunch and richness, but it also comes together in minutes, making it an ideal choice for those busy weeknights or last-minute get-togethers. Whether you re tired of fast food or just looking to elevate your homemade meals, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Grab your ingredients, and let s bring some excitement back to your kitchen!

Why love Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad?

Harmony of flavors: The crispy buttermilk fried chicken pairs beautifully with the freshness of baby cos lettuce, crunchy cucumbers, and tangy Granny Smith apples.

Elevate your meals: This recipe is a fantastic way to transform traditional fried chicken into a wholesome salad.

Quick assembly: No lengthy prep here! With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dish that looks as great as it tastes.

Crowd-pleaser: It s perfect for gatherings, impressing family and friends with its vibrant colors and enticing flavors.

Endless variations: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add nuts for an extra crunch! For more delicious salads, check out our salad recipe collection.

Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad

• Baby cos lettuces Two crisp hearts add a fresh crunch to your salad.
• Baby fennel bulbs These bring a subtle anise flavor that complements the salad beautifully.
• Lebanese cucumbers Opt for these for their sweet, refreshing taste and delightful crunch.
• Granny Smith apple This tart apple adds a zesty brightness to balance the richness of the chicken.
• Blue cheese A sprinkle of this creamy cheese enhances flavors and adds a touch of decadence.
• Buttermilk fried chicken Sliced pieces of this Southern staple provide the heart of your dish.

For the Dressing

• Buttermilk dressing Use a generous drizzle to bring all the flavors together for your crispy chicken salad.

This delicious Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Dressing is sure to become a favorite, appealing to both your taste buds and your love for homemade food!

How to Make Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad

1. Prepare the Salad Base: Start by washing and tearing the baby cos lettuces into bite-sized pieces. Combine them with the thinly sliced baby fennel bulbs and Lebanon cucumbers in a spacious salad bowl.

2. Add Freshness: Slice the Granny Smith apple into thin wedges, ensuring they re crisp and tart. Toss the apple slices into the bowl, adding a bright contrast to the greens.

3. Incorporate the Cheese: Crumble the blue cheese generously over the salad. Its creamy richness beautifully balances the freshness and crunch of the vegetables.

4. Layer the Chicken: Take your buttermilk fried chicken and slice it into hearty pieces. Gently lay the chicken on top of the salad, letting its golden color shine through.

5. Dress the Salad: Drizzle the buttermilk dressing over your salad just before serving. This adds a creamy element that ties all the wonderful flavors together.

Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an extra flavor boost!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad

• Fridge: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Avoid adding dressing until you re ready to eat to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
• Freezer: It s not recommended to freeze the salad once assembled, as the textures will become mushy. However, you can freeze buttermilk fried chicken separately for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: If you freeze the chicken, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven or air fryer until crispy to serve on your salad.
• Freshness Tip: Always add the buttermilk dressing right before serving to maintain flavor and avoid sogginess in your Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad.

Expert Tips for Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad

• Crispiness Check: Ensure your buttermilk fried chicken is freshly made for optimal crunch; soggy chicken can ruin the salad s texture.

• Veggie Variety: Don t hesitate to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or radishes for added color and flavor; it s a versatile way to enjoy your Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad.

• Cheese Choices: If blue cheese isn t your favorite, substitute it with feta or goat cheese, which provide a similar creamy finish without overpowering the dish.

• Dressing Balance: Use just enough buttermilk dressing to coat the salad evenly too much can make it soggy. Trust your taste buds!

• Make Ahead: Prepare the salad ingredients in advance, but add the dressing and fried chicken right before serving to keep everything fresh and vibrant.

Make Ahead Options

These Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Dressing components are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade meal during your busy week! You can wash and chop the baby cos lettuces, fennel, cucumbers, and apple up to 24 hours in advance; just store them in airtight containers in the fridge to keep them fresh and crisp. The buttermilk fried chicken can be prepared and stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you re ready to serve, simply assemble the salad by mixing the prepped ingredients in a bowl, layer on the chicken, and drizzle with dressing. This approach saves you time while ensuring your salad remains just as delicious!

What to Serve with Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad?

Elevate your dining experience with delightful pairings that will leave your taste buds dancing in joy.

• Garlic Bread: The crunchy, buttery richness of garlic bread makes for a comforting side that complements the salad s fresh elements perfectly.

• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies adds a warm, caramelized flavor that enhances the freshness of the salad while providing a variety of textures.

• Quinoa Pilaf: Light and nutty, quinoa pilaf complements the salad s richness and adds a wholesome, filling element for a more complete meal.

• Fruit Salad: A medley of fruits, especially citrus, offers a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, creating a beautifully balanced plate.

• Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc brings out the brilliant flavors of the salad without overwhelming the palate, making for a perfect pairing.

• Chocolate Mousse: End your meal with a light chocolate mousse, where its creamy sweetness contrasts beautifully with the salad s savory notes for a satisfying finish.

Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful salad and make it your own!

• Dairy-Free: Substitute blue cheese with vegan cheese or omit entirely for a lighter take that still packs flavor.
  For added creaminess, consider using a nut-based alternative like cashew cheese, which provides a lovely rich texture without dairy.

• Spicy Twist: Sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the fried chicken before cooking for an extra kick.
  The heat will elevate the entire salad, creating a delicious balance with the creamy buttermilk dressing.

• Crunchy Add-ins: Toss in some nuts, such as sliced almonds or walnuts, for a satisfying crunch.
  Their earthy flavors complement the salad beautifully and add a nutritional boost that your family will love.

• Fruit Variations: Swap the Granny Smith apple for a juicy pear or seasonal fruit like peaches or strawberries.
  These alternatives will introduce a sweet brightness, creating delightful contrasts with the savory chicken and blue cheese.

• Greens Galore: Experiment with different greens like arugula, spinach, or kale for a unique twist on texture and flavor.
  Each offers its own special profile; arugula s peppery bite and kale s heartiness can bring a refreshing change to your salad.

• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, dill, or cilantro to enhance the flavors and freshness.
  A handful of chopped herbs really elevates the dish, making each bite more vibrant and fragrant.

• Creamy Alternative: Swap buttermilk dressing for a tahini-based dressing for a nutty, creamy flavor.
  This switch adds an unexpected twist, bringing new layers of flavor while remaining rich and satisfying.

• Grain Boost: Add cooked quinoa or farro for a hearty grain option, making it more filling.
  The chewy texture complements the crisp veggies and fried chicken, creating a wholesome meal in one bowl.

Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad with Buttermilk Dressing Recipe FAQs

What type of lettuce is best for Southern Style Crispy Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Baby cos (romaine) lettuce provides a nice crunch and freshness that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients. Look for crisp, bright green leaves without wilting or dark spots when selecting.

How should I store leftover chicken salad?
I recommend placing any leftover salad in an airtight container and refrigerating it. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days, but be sure to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from wilting. Just give it a simple toss when you re ready to enjoy!

Can I freeze the buttermilk fried chicken?
Yes, you can! To freeze your buttermilk fried chicken, let it cool completely after cooking. Then, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, ensuring it s sealed well to prevent air from entering. It can last up to 3 months! When you re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it in the oven or air fryer to maintain its crispy texture.

What should I do if my salad is soggy?
Very! If you notice your salad becoming soggy, it usually means it had too much dressing or was dressed too early. To fix this, gently toss the salad with fresh ingredients like more greens or veggies to absorb extra moisture and balance it out. If it s too late, adding some crunchy toppings, such as nuts or croutons, can help restore some texture.

Is this salad suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
Great question! Since blue cheese and buttermilk dressing contain dairy, folks with lactose intolerance might want to substitute these ingredients. You can try using a lactose-free cheese or replacing the buttermilk dressing with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a fresh taste that won t upset your stomach.