This Million Dollar Chicken Salad is a creamy, tasty mix filled with tender chicken, crunchy veggies, and sweet grapes. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic treat!
I love serving it on fresh bread or a bed of greens. It’s so good, I often make extra just to have some for myself later. You know the struggle—it’s hard to resist! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: For the best flavor, use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. It’s convenient and adds lovely seasoning. If you prefer, you can also use turkey or even a can of chickpeas for a vegetarian twist!
Mayonnaise: Regular mayo works well, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, try using Greek yogurt instead. It adds creaminess and a bit of tang! You can also experiment with homemade mayo for a fresher taste.
Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch, but if you’re not a fan, try cucumber or bell peppers instead. They’ll give similar crunch without the celery taste.
Green Onions: These add great flavor but can be replaced with red onions or shallots for a stronger bite. If you’re out, feel free to skip them entirely!
Slivered Almonds: They provide a nutty taste, but you could swap them for chopped walnuts or pecans, or even sunflower seeds if you’re nut-free. For a fun twist, consider adding crispy tortilla strips!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds a smoky flavor; however, if you’re looking for healthier options, crispy chickpeas or tempeh bacon work nicely too.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Salad Is Well-Mixed and Flavorful?
Getting the right mix is essential for a delicious chicken salad! Follow these steps to ensure everything combines well.
- Start with the chicken and mayo mix. Stir well so all the chicken is coated.
- Gradually add the rest of the ingredients one by one, mixing as you go. This helps distribute flavors evenly.
- Don’t forget to taste! Adjust salt and pepper as needed. It’s important to balance the flavors.
- Let it chill for at least 30 minutes—this helps bring all the tasty flavors together, making each bite better!
Enjoy making this salad, and feel free to play around with the ingredients to make it your own!
How to Make Million Dollar Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 cup celery, diced
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving (Optional):
- Lettuce leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus an additional 30 minutes for chilling in the refrigerator. So, in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes before you can enjoy this delicious chicken salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Use a spoon to stir everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated with the creamy dressing. This will be the tasty base of your salad!
2. Add the Crunchy Veggies and Extras:
Next, add in the diced celery, chopped green onions, slivered almonds, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix all these ingredients together well, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed. The combination of flavors and textures will make your salad irresistible!
3. Season and Chill:
Now it’s time to season the mixture. Sprinkle in a little salt and pepper to enhance the flavors, and adjust to your liking. Once seasoned, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This not only cools the salad but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Million Dollar Chicken Salad is ready to enjoy! You can serve it by itself or spoon it onto lettuce leaves for a fresh and lovely presentation. Dive in and enjoy a truly delicious meal!
Can I Use Canned Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Canned chicken is a convenient substitute. Just make sure to drain it well and break it apart with a fork to mimic shredded chicken. This can save time and is great for a quick meal!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding lettuce until you’re ready to serve, as it can wilt. Just give it a good stir before enjoying it again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! It’s actually best if made a few hours in advance or even the day before. The chilling time allows all the flavors to combine nicely. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid in the fridge.
What Are Some Good Substitutions for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary needs, you can use Greek yogurt or a mix of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise for a lighter version. It adds creaminess while cutting down on calories!
