This Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad is a creamy and tasty dish made with tender chicken, crunchy celery, and sweet grapes. It’s perfect for sandwiches or just on its own!
In my house, this salad is the star of lunch! It’s quick to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser, especially when served with some crispy crackers. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken works great here! If you’re short on time, you can also use canned chicken. For a lighter option, consider using turkey instead!
Celery: This adds crunch! If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with diced apples or bell peppers for a different flavor and texture.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you’re looking for dairy-free, try a vegan cheese alternative, or skip the cheese altogether!
Bacon: The crispy bits bring a smoky flavor. If you prefer, use turkey bacon or even omit it for a vegetarian version. Adding chopped walnuts can also add some crunch.
Mayonnaise and Sour Cream: You can swap these for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. If you’re dairy-free, use a vegan mayo.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Perfectly Combined?
Mixing everything well is key to a delicious chicken salad! Here’s how to ensure a great blend:
- Start by combining the dry ingredients like chicken, celery, cheese, and bacon in a large bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise and sour cream until smooth.
- Drizzle the dressing over the chicken mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently fold it in, making sure to coat every ingredient without over-mixing.
- Taste and adjust seasonings like salt and pepper as needed.
- Letting it chill for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to mix and intensify, so don’t skip this step!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy chicken salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to chill it for at least 30 minutes before serving. So, all in all, you’re looking at about 45 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, and slivered almonds. Mix everything together gently until well combined.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix the mayonnaise and sour cream together until they are well blended and smooth. This creamy dressing is what makes the salad so delicious!
3. Mix Dressing with Chicken Salad:
Pour the mayonnaise and sour cream mixture over the chicken and veggie mix. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Now, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Give it another quick stir to blend the seasoning in.
5. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld together, making it even tastier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When you’re ready to eat, take your chicken salad out of the fridge. Serve it cold on a bed of lettuce, or with your favorite crackers or toasted bread. Enjoy your creamy, crunchy, and flavorful Million Dollar Chicken Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad and will save you time in the kitchen. Just shred or chop it and you’re good to go!
How Can I Make This Chicken Salad Healthier?
If you want a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon for a leaner option.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Stored in an airtight container, your chicken salad will last for about 3 days in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving again!
Can I Customize This Salad with Other Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add any of your favorite ingredients like diced apples for sweetness, chopped walnuts for crunch, or even different herbs for added flavor. Make it your own!
