Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad Recipe

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken: Using shredded cooked chicken is key for this salad. I often use rotisserie chicken—it’s quick and flavorful! If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with chickpeas or tofu for a different twist.

Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds richness, but you can swap it for a dairy-free cheese or omit it for a lighter version.

Bacon: The bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, use smoked tempeh or leave it out altogether for a lighter salad.

Mayonnaise: This is the base of the dressing. Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative, giving a similar creaminess with less fat.

Almonds: Toasted almonds provide a nice crunch. You can replace them with walnuts or pecans if you prefer. For nut allergies, sunflower seeds can work well too.

How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Stays Creamy and Flavorful?

The dressing is a crucial part of keeping this chicken salad creamy and ensuring all ingredients meld together. Follow these tips:

• Mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper until smooth. This blend makes a balanced dressing!
• Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting time allows flavors to mix and improves the overall taste.
• Adjust the seasoning after chilling. Sometimes, a little extra lemon juice or salt makes a big difference!

Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (about 2-3 chicken breasts)
• 1 cup celery, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup sliced almonds, toasted
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, and you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least an hour before serving to let all the flavors come together. So, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to serving!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Mix the Ingredients:

Start by taking a large mixing bowl. Add in the shredded chicken, finely chopped celery, shredded cheddar cheese, toasted almonds, chopped bacon, and sliced green onions. Give everything a good stir until it’s nicely combined.

2. Prepare the Dressing:

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix it well until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the delicious dressing that brings everything together!

3. Combine Everything:

Now, take the dressing and pour it over your chicken mixture. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing.

4. Chill and Blend the Flavors:

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the chicken salad for at least 1 hour. This step helps all the flavors meld together and makes for a tastier salad.

5. Serve and Enjoy!

After chilling, it’s time to serve! You can serve the salad chilled on a bed of fresh lettuce, use it as a filling between slices of bread, or enjoy it with crackers. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your delicious chicken salad!

FAQ about Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad

Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe. Just shred the meat, and you’ll save time on cooking!

How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?

This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, it’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance enhances the flavors. Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?

If you prefer a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute for mayonnaise and adds creaminess! You can also try using avocado for a different twist.