Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

A creamy, crunchy, low-carb chicken salad packed with shredded chicken, celery, cheddar cheese, bacon, slivered almonds, mayonnaise, and sour cream. Quick to prepare using fresh, rotisserie, or leftover chicken, perfect for meals or snacks.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 cups chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie or leftover chicken recommended)
  • 1 cup celery, finely chopped
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1/2 cup crispy bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds (optional)
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt to taste (about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp)
  • Black pepper to taste (about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp)

Instructions

  1. If needed, shred or cube cooked chicken (rotisserie or leftover).
  2. Cook bacon until crispy and crumble, or use pre-cooked bacon bits.
  3. Toast slivered almonds if using.
  4. Finely chop celery.
  5. Thinly slice green onions.
  6. Shred sharp cheddar cheese.
  7. In a large bowl, combine chicken, chopped celery, sliced green onions, crumbled bacon, toasted almonds, and shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Add mayonnaise and sour cream to the bowl.
  9. Stir everything until evenly coated and well combined.
  10. Season with salt and pepper to taste (about 1/4 to 1/2 tsp each).
  11. Optional: Chill the salad for 30-60 minutes to allow flavors to meld for best taste.

Notes

Use rotisserie or leftover chicken for convenience and flavor., Mayonnaise carries flavors best; avoid Miracle Whip for creaminess., Greek yogurt can substitute sour cream for a tangier twist., Omit almonds if nut allergies are a concern., Fat-free mayo or sour cream negatively affect texture and flavor., Chicken salad keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days., Do not freeze the prepared salad; freeze chicken separately if needed., Add 1/4 cup diced fresh jalapeño for a spicy variation., Perfect for meal prep; can be made up to 24 hours ahead by prepping ingredients separately.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes (primarily for cooking bacon and toasting almonds)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: About 3/4 cup per serving
  • Calories: Approximately 300 calories per serving
  • Fat: Approx. 22 grams per serving
  • Carbohydrates: Approx. 4 grams per serving
  • Protein: Approx. 25 grams per serving