Million Dollar Chicken Salad

A rich and easy chicken salad that tastes great cold or warm.

introduction

This Million Dollar Chicken Salad is creamy, crunchy, and full of flavor. It makes a good lunch or a quick dinner when you want something simple and tasty. If you like salads with fruit and nuts, try a similar idea like apple pecan chicken salad for a sweet twist.

why make this recipe

This salad cooks fast and uses simple parts. You can make it ahead and it keeps well. It feeds a few people and works for plates, sandwiches, or party trays. Kids and adults both like its mix of bacon, almonds, and cheese.

how to make Million Dollar Chicken Salad

1. Cook or use leftover chicken. Cube or shred it.
2. Chop celery and slice green onions. Crumble the bacon.
3. Toast the slivered almonds if you want more crunch.
4. Put chicken, celery, green onions, bacon, almonds, and cheese in a big bowl.
5. Add mayonnaise and sour cream. Stir until creamy and even.
6. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed.
7. Chill the salad for 30 minutes to let flavors mix.

Ingredients :

3 Cups chicken, shredded or cubed, 1 Cup celery, finely chopped, 1 Cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, ½ Cup crispy bacon, crumbled, ½ Cup toasted slivered almonds, ½ Cup mayonnaise, ¼ Cup sour cream, 3 Green onions, sliced, Salt & Pepper, to taste (about 1/4–1/2 tsp each)

Directions :

Place the chicken, celery, green onions, bacon, almonds, and cheese in a large bowl.
Add the mayonnaise and sour cream to the bowl.
Mix everything well until evenly combined and creamy.
Season with salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/2 tsp each).
Chill for 30 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Serve on toast, in lettuce wraps, stuffed in avocados or tomatoes, or with crackers.

how to serve Million Dollar Chicken Salad

Serve it on fresh bread or toast for a sandwich. Use lettuce leaves for a low-carb wrap. Spoon it into halved avocados or hollowed tomatoes for a pretty plate. Offer crackers or fresh veggies as dippers for a snack or party.

how to store Million Dollar Chicken Salad

Put the salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Do not leave it out at room temperature for more than 2 hours. Stir before serving if it sits a while.

tips to make Million Dollar Chicken Salad

• Use cooked chicken that is cold or room temp so the mayo does not get thin.
• Toast the almonds for better crunch and flavor.
• Taste before chilling and adjust salt and pepper.
• Chop celery small for an even bite.
• For less fat, use light mayo or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

variation (if any)

• Add diced apples or grapes for a sweet crunch.
• Mix in chopped dill pickles or a little pickle juice for tang.
• Use smoked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time.
• Swap almonds for pecans or walnuts if you prefer.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it the day before and chill. It tastes better after the flavors sit for a bit.

Q: How long will it keep?
A: Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days in a closed container.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?
A: No. Freezing will change the texture of mayo and cream, so do not freeze.

Q: Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes. Plain Greek yogurt works fine and lowers the fat.

Q: Is this good for sandwiches?
A: Yes. It makes a tasty sandwich filling and also works on toast.

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