This Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing that everyone loves. It’s like a mini party in a bowl!
I enjoy adding some grapes for a sweet twist. You have to admit, a bit of crunch and sweetness makes it so much better! Perfect for lunch or a picnic! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is great for convenience. If you don’t have it, any cooked chicken will do. Leftover grilled or baked chicken works well too!
Mayonnaise: This creamy base can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a healthier option. Some people mix half mayo and half yogurt for flavor and health.
Celery: Adds a lovely crunch to the salad. If you’re not a fan, diced apples or cucumbers offer a similar texture and extra sweetness.
Bacon: For a smoky flavor, I recommend crispy bacon. However, if you want a meat-free version, try crispy chickpeas or omit it entirely.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar in this salad for its strong flavor. You can use Monterey Jack or a dairy-free cheese if needed.
How Do I Make the Best Dressing for My Chicken Salad?
Making the dressing is simple but key to the flavor of the salad. Combine mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. The sugar balances the richness of the mayo, giving a slightly sweet taste.
- Mix until smooth to avoid lumps.
- Pour the dressing over your chicken mixture and fold gently to coat everything evenly.
- Letting it chill for an hour helps meld the flavors, making it taste fantastic!
Remember to taste it before serving. You can adjust seasoning based on your preference! Enjoy!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 1 hour to chill in the refrigerator. It’s a quick and easy dish to whip up, and the chilling time helps all those delicious flavors blend beautifully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, place your shredded cooked chicken. Add in the diced celery, sliced green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and toasted slivered almonds. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together well.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well mixed and smooth. This is where the magic happens, so make sure it’s nicely blended!
3. Mix it All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is coated evenly. Be careful not to overmix—it’s all about keeping that chunky texture.
4. Chill and Let the Flavors Combine:
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 1 hour. This resting time lets all those flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite delicious.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once chilled, take the salad out of the fridge. You can serve it on its own, on a bed of lettuce, or in sandwiches and wraps. This salad is creamy, crunchy, and delicious—perfect for lunch or a potluck dish!
Enjoy your Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad—it’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! While rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use any cooked chicken you have on hand, such as grilled, baked, or leftover chicken from a previous meal. Just make sure to shred it for easy mixing!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh and tasty, be sure to consume it within that timeframe!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it up to a day in advance. Just keep it refrigerated to let the flavors develop, and give it a quick stir before serving.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or prefer a lighter dressing, you can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a mix of mayonnaise and plain yogurt. This will still give you a creamy texture while cutting down on calories!
