This chicken salad is packed with flavor and a mix of ingredients like tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and creamy dressing. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’ll make you feel like a million bucks!
Honestly, it’s so easy to whip up that I often make it as a quick lunch. Just toss everything together, and you’re done. Perfect for those busy days when you need something tasty fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great option for this salad, saving you time. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, feel free to use that instead. Just shred or chop it up for this recipe!
Celery: Fresh diced celery adds a nice crunch. If you’re not a fan, you can substitute with diced bell peppers or cucumbers for a different texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a strong flavor, but you can swap it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack if you prefer a milder or spicier kick.
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smokiness. Turkey bacon or even crumbled feta cheese can be used for a lighter option.
Slivered Almonds: Toasted almonds give a nutty crunch. You can use walnuts or pecans as substitutes, or leave them out altogether if you’re not into nuts.
How Do You Create a Creamy Dressing?
The dressing is key to making this chicken salad come alive! To make it creamy, mix the mayonnaise with white sugar and apple cider vinegar. The sugar balances the tanginess of the vinegar, creating a lovely flavor.
- In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, 1 tsp of white sugar, 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Test the dressing and adjust sweetness or creaminess to your liking by adding more sugar or mayonnaise.
Mix the dressing well before pouring over your chicken mixture. This ensures every bite of salad is creamy and delicious!
Easy Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp white sugar
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This chicken salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. After mixing, it’s best to chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all those flavors blend perfectly. So, you can expect about 45 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, diced celery, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, crumbled bacon, and toasted slivered almonds. Make sure everything is mixed well to make each bite delicious!
2. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white sugar, apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This dressing will bring everything together and add a lovely creaminess.
3. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt and pepper.
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time helps the flavors to meld beautifully. When ready to serve, you can lay it on a bed of fresh lettuce, scoop it into sandwiches, or enjoy it on crackers. It’s versatile and delicious!
Enjoy your meal and feel like a million bucks with this easy chicken salad!
Can I Use Fresh Chicken Instead of Cooked Chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer to use fresh chicken, simply cook and shred it first. You can boil, roast, or grill the chicken. Just make sure it’s completely cooled before mixing it into the salad.
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a lighter option. This will still give you that creamy texture and flavor, just a bit tangier!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can! This salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. The flavors only get better as it sits!
How Can I Make This Chicken Salad Healthier?
If you’re looking for a healthier twist, consider using low-fat mayonnaise, adding more veggies like bell peppers or carrots, and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also skip the bacon or use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
