This chicken salad is a simple mix of juicy chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing that tastes amazing. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
I love that it’s quick to whip up, and you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Plus, leftovers make a tasty snack! Who wouldn’t want a million-dollar treat? 🤗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time. Alternatively, you can use leftover grilled or baked chicken. Even turkey works well here!
Mayonnaise & Sour Cream: For a lighter version, swap in Greek yogurt for half of the mayo or sour cream. It adds protein and a nice tang!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds great flavor, but feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist. Even vegan cheese can work for a dairy-free option!
Bacon: If you want to keep it vegetarian, you can skip the bacon or use crispy chickpeas or tempeh as a crunchy alternative!
Almonds: Swap for walnuts, pecans, or even sunflower seeds if allergies are a concern. They all add a nice crunch!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Isn’t Dry?
To keep your chicken salad creamy, balance your ingredients well. Start with the mayo and sour cream mix, as they create a flavorful base. You can always add more if needed, but it’s harder to fix if it becomes too thick.
- Use enough mayo and sour cream to coat the chicken well without it becoming soupy.
- Chill the salad before serving; it helps the flavors come together and enhances creaminess.
- Don’t hesitate to add extra lemon juice if it feels dry; it perks up flavors and adds moisture.
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds or slivered almonds
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the fridge. So, you can have this delicious chicken salad ready in under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Stir everything together until the chicken is well coated and the mixture looks creamy.
2. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add in the shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped celery, green onions, crumbled bacon, and sliced almonds. These ingredients will add crunch and a burst of flavor!
3. Mix it All Together:
Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want all ingredients to be evenly distributed, creating the perfect chicken salad.
4. Season to Taste:
If you like, add a tablespoon of lemon juice for a little zing, and sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your preference!
5. Chill & Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step is important as it allows the flavors to meld and the salad to chill.
6. Enjoy Your Chicken Salad:
When ready to serve, you can dish it out on a bed of lettuce, make a sandwich with your favorite bread, or enjoy it with crackers. This creamy, crunchy salad is sure to be a hit with everyone!
Enjoy this easy and delicious chicken salad that’s perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly. Just shred it and you’re good to go!
Can I Make This Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! This chicken salad actually tastes better after chilling in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Just store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’re good for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving again, and if it seems a bit dry, add a spoonful of mayo to freshen it up.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute Greek yogurt for half or all of the mayonnaise. It’s creamy and adds a nice tang to the salad without compromising flavor!
