This Million Dollar Chicken Salad is super creamy and packed with flavor! It features tender chicken, crunchy celery, and a mix of tasty seasonings for a truly special touch.
You can enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or just by itself with crackers. Either way, it’s a sure crowd-pleaser that makes lunchtime exciting! 🍗🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Use shredded or cubed cooked chicken, which can be rotisserie chicken or leftover chicken. If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute with chickpeas or a meat alternative like tofu.
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo brings richness, but for a lighter option, try Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo. This can make the salad creamier and add a tangy flavor.
Celery: Celery adds crunch. If you need a substitute, consider chopped apples or cucumbers for freshness. You could even use bell peppers for a colorful twist.
Sliced Almonds: These add a nutty flavor and crunch. If you prefer not to use nuts, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds work well as substitutes. Just be mindful if you have nut allergies in your crowd.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon gives a savory touch. For a vegetarian option, you can use crispy tempeh or omit it entirely. Smoked paprika can add a smoky flavor in lieu of bacon.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken Salad Is Well-Mixed?
Mixing the ingredients well helps all the flavors to come together nicely. Start by ensuring the chicken is coated evenly with the mayonnaise and lemon juice before adding the other ingredients. Breaking up any large clumps of chicken will also help.
- After combining the chicken, mayo, and lemon juice, fold in the remaining ingredients gently so you don’t break them apart.
- Try using a spatula or large spoon to mix. This prevents the cheese and vegetables from getting too mushy.
- If time allows, refrigerating the salad for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend beautifully, making each bite taste amazing!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare and requires an additional 30 minutes in the refrigerator for the flavors to blend together nicely. So, you’ll be enjoying your meal in roughly 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Base:
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the cooked chicken (either shredded or cubed), mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the creamy mayo mixture. This is the tasty base of your salad!
2. Adding Crunch and Flavor:
Now, it’s time to add some crunch! Toss in the chopped celery, sliced almonds, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions into the bowl. Give everything a good stir to combine all these delicious ingredients. Make sure every bite will have that yummy mix!
3. Seasoning Your Salad:
Next up, season your chicken salad with a dash of salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Don’t be shy! Taste it to see if it needs more seasoning, and adjust as desired for your perfect flavor.
4. Chill It Out:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken salad chill for at least 30 minutes. This will help all those flavors blend together beautifully.
5. Serving Your Salad:
Once your salad is chilled and ready, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy Million Dollar Chicken Salad on a bed of greens, stuffed in a sandwich, or paired with crackers for a tasty snack. However you choose to serve it, get ready to enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this salad. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones, then shred or cube the meat. This will add a delicious flavor and save you time!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy flavor. For a dairy-free version, try using mashed avocado or a vegan mayonnaise to maintain creaminess without the eggs.
How Long Does This Chicken Salad Last in the Fridge?
This chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to keep it chilled to maintain freshness. If you notice any change in smell or texture, it’s best to discard it!
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Chicken Salad?
Of course! Feel free to customize your salad by adding ingredients like grapes, apples, or nuts for extra crunch and flavor. You can also toss in chopped herbs like dill or parsley if you like a fresh taste!
