This chicken salad is a real winner! Made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a zesty dressing, it’s fresh and filled with flavor. Perfect for lunch or picnics!
I can’t help but smile when I make this salad. It’s quick to whip up, and everyone loves it! Serve it on toast or lettuce—it’s just so good any way you choose! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to for this recipe. It’s super convenient! If you prefer, you can poach chicken breasts in seasoned water or use leftover grilled chicken. Any cooked chicken works well here!
Celery: Fresh celery adds great crunch. If you’re not a fan, try diced bell pepper or cucumber for a similar texture. These add freshness too!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: A good cheese choice for flavor! If you’re looking for a milder taste, go for Monterey Jack cheese instead. You could also use a dairy-free cheese to adjust for dietary needs.
Almonds: Slivered almonds bring a nice crunch. For nut allergies, feel free to swap them for toasted sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a delicious smokiness. If you want a healthier option, try turkey bacon or skip it entirely for a lighter salad.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Perfectly Creamy?
The key to a creamy chicken salad lies in the dressing. A good balance of mayonnaise and sour cream adds richness. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth. The sour cream lightens it up!
- Add sugar to balance the flavors—you’ll be surprised how much it helps!
- Include lemon juice for brightness. Adjust the amount to your taste!
- Toss gently with the chicken and veggies to avoid breaking everything apart.
Letting the salad refrigerate for an hour helps all the ingredients blend beautifully. Enjoy it cold for the best taste!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie or poached)
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup almonds, slivered
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 1 hour to chill in the fridge. Total time: just over an hour! Perfect for meal prep or to impress guests with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together until evenly mixed.
2. Make the Creamy Dressing:
In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, sugar, and lemon juice until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This dressing will add a rich and creamy texture to your salad!
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together to coat all the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to mash the chicken; you want it to stay fluffy and soft!
4. Season and Chill:
Add salt and pepper to taste. If you like it a bit sweeter or tangier, adjust the sugar or lemon juice to your liking. Once seasoned, cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. This helps the flavors come together beautifully!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to serve, take the chicken salad out of the fridge. It can be enjoyed chilled on sandwiches, in lettuce wraps, or simply with your favorite crackers. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing meal!
This Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad is the perfect blend of creamy, crunchy, and savory with just the right kick. It’s ideal for a quick meal or to take to any gathering!
FAQ
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred it into bite-sized pieces, and you’re ready to go!
Can I Substitute the Mayonnaise?
Yes! If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for the mayonnaise. It will still give you a creamy texture with a bit of tang!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Chicken Salad can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This salad is great for meal prep. You can make it up to 2 days in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen as it sits in the fridge!
