This Chicken Salad is a winner with its juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for lunch, picnics, or a light dinner that feels fancy without the fuss!
You might even want to eat it for breakfast! 🥗 I love serving it in a wrap or on toasted bread. It’s quick to whip up, which means more time for enjoying with friends and family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. You can also use leftover chicken or grilled chicken for added flavor.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo works well, but you can swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, or use avocado for a creamy texture without the mayo. My go-to is a mix of both!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its rich taste, feel free to use your favorite cheese. Monterey Jack or even a vegan cheese can work if you’re looking for alternatives.
Celery: For a crunch, chopped cucumbers or peppers make a nice substitute if you’re not a celery fan. Both add a refreshing bite.
Sliced Almonds: If you’re nut-free, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds will add a nice crunch without the allergens.
Bacon: For a healthier option, you could use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a lighter salad. If you love the flavor, smoked paprika can add a similar smoky taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad is Full of Flavor?
The trick to a delicious chicken salad lies in the seasoning and chilling time. Here’s how to get it right:
- Mix your ingredients well: Make sure everything is coated with mayonnaise for even flavor.
- Season as you go: Taste your salad before it chills and adjust the salt and pepper. You can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
- Chill it out: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully. It’s worth the wait!
- Serve creatively: Try it in a wrap, on toast, or even lettuce cups for a fun twist!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds, toasted
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 tsp sugar (optional for a hint of sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just 40 minutes, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped celery, and sliced green onions. Stir everything together until well combined. This is the base of your salad, so make sure every piece of chicken gets coated in that creamy mayo!
2. Add the Crunchy Elements:
Next, fold in the toasted sliced almonds and crumbled cooked bacon. These ingredients add a delicious crunch and flavor that makes the salad special. Mix gently so you don’t break up the almonds too much.
3. Seasoning to Taste:
Add in the optional sugar, along with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir once more until all the ingredients are evenly coated and flavorful.
4. Chill and Let the Flavors Meld:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the salad to an airtight container. Chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to blend together beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or over a bed of greens. The possibilities are endless! Enjoy your delicious chicken salad and relish in the compliments you’ll receive!
FAQ for Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken, like rotisserie chicken or any additional chicken from another meal, works perfectly. Just shred it up and you’re good to go!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the salad even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chicken salad is great for meal prep. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, allowing the flavors to develop. Just give it a good stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of yogurt and mayo. Another alternative is mashed avocado for a creamy texture without the mayo.
