This Million Dollar Chicken Salad is a creamy, tasty mix that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic. It features tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a special dressing that brings it all together!
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up this salad. I love to serve it on a bed of greens or in a sandwich—either way, it’s a hit! Yum! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any type of cooked chicken, such as rotisserie or grilled. If you’re vegetarian, try chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Celery: This veggie adds crunch. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute diced apples or bell peppers for a different texture and flavor.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the salad. If you prefer a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It tastes great too!
Green Onions: They add a mild onion flavor. If you want something stronger, feel free to swap them with finely chopped red onions.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor! You can switch it up with Monterey Jack or even a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free option.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Salad Stays Moist and Flavorful?
The dressing is key to keeping your salad moist and flavorful. Make sure to mix the mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice until well combined, so every bite has a creamy texture.
- When mixing, do it gently to keep the chicken pieces intact.
- Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes is a must! This time allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Salad:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup slivered almonds
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dressing:
For the Add-Ins:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. You’ll also want to let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. So, in total, plan for about 45 minutes to make and enjoy your salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add your cooked chicken, diced celery, and chopped green onions. Stir everything together so the ingredients are well mixed and ready for the dressing.
2. Whisking the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and lemon juice. Use a whisk to mix them together until it’s smooth and creamy—this will be your tasty dressing!
3. Combining the Mixtures:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything gently to ensure all your chicken, celery, and onions are coated in that delicious dressing.
4. Adding Extra Flavor:
Now, it’s time to add in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and slivered almonds. Gently fold these ingredients into the chicken mixture to keep everything light and fluffy.
5. Seasoning the Salad:
Don’t forget to sprinkle some salt and pepper to your liking. This will enhance the flavors of your chicken salad!
6. Chilling Time:
Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let the salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps all those wonderful flavors mix together beautifully.
7. Serving Suggestions:
When you’re ready to enjoy your chicken salad, serve it chilled! You can lay it on a bed of greens, scoop it into a sandwich, or serve it with crackers. Enjoy this tasty meal!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred or dice the amount you need, and it’ll add even more flavor to your salad. Be sure to remove any skin and bones before adding it to your bowl.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works wonderfully in place of mayonnaise. You can also try using hummus for a different flavor profile. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the creaminess slightly, so you might want to adjust the sour cream accordingly!
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
Store your Million Dollar Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge, and it will keep well for up to 3 days. If it starts to look or smell off, it’s best to discard any leftovers for safety.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! It’s actually better when made ahead as it allows the flavors to meld together. Just prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance, and make sure to store it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Just give it a good stir before serving!
