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Looking for an above-average chicken salad recipe? Meet this ultra-creamy cream cheese chicken salad. Featuring juicy chicken, velvety cream cheese, crunchy veggies, salty bacon, and flavorful everything spice to create a rich, savory spread that will keep you coming back for more. Best of all, you’ll need just 7 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of prep to make it.

“This is definitely a novel way to make chicken salad. I’ve never tried adding cream cheese or everything spice, but oh man it’s REALLY GOOD! Thanks very much for sharing this.”

– Bernard
Overhead photo of chicken salad made with cream cheese, celery, bacon, and fresh herbs in a white bowl.

Update: This recipe was originally published in August 2018. I’ve updated the post below to include more information about homemade chicken salad. Plus, I’ve included a recipe video to show you how easy this creamy chicken salad with bacon is to make! 

Hi, friends! Meet your new favorite, crave-it-for-days lunch obsession:

Table of Contents

About this cream cheese chicken salad 

Imagine: tangy, rich cream cheese melting into tender chunks of chicken mingling with crisp veggies, crisp pieces of salty bacon, and bold pops of everything seasoning for satisfying flavor in every single bite. Luxuriously smooth, perfectly comforting, and totally scoopable, it’s a major upgrade on the classic chicken salad. One spoonful and you’ll become a devoted fan. 

Whether you’re craving an easy weekday meal, meal prepping for lunches, or planning a picnic, this chicken salad with cream cheese fits any occasion. Scoop it onto flakey croissants, pile it into lettuce leaves, or serve it alongside crackers for an easy snack.

Why this recipe works

  • Ultra-Creamy Salad. With its unmatched creaminess, cream cheese creates a luscious, silky base that perfectly coats every bite of chicken. 
  • Textural Excitement. Tender chicken meets creamy dressing, crunchy mix‑ins, and fresh herbs to make every bite exciting.
  • Bold, Balanced Flavors. Savory chicken + subtly tangy cream cheese + fresh mix-ins + everything seasoning = crave-worthy combo.
  • Easy to Make. There’s no cooking required if you use leftover or rotisserie chicken—just mix, chill, and serve.
  • Staple ingredients. Simple, accessible ingredients, like chicken, cream cheese, and celery, which you can find anywhere.
  • Family-friendly and Customizable. Mild, cozy flavors make it appealing to all ages. And you can easily adjust mix-ins: add nuts, dried fruit, swap spices and fresh herbs—this recipe plays well with everything.
Overhead photo of two raw chicken breasts poaching in a large pot of water.

Ingredients for this chicken salad with cream cheese

  • Cooked Chicken. Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver and lends great flavor, but any cooked chicken breast or thighs work beautifully.
  • Cooked Bacon. Gives pops of chewy, salty goodness. 
  • Celery. Lends freshness and crunch to balance the creamy base.
  • Shallot. Provides a gentle aromatic bite and savory depth. 
  • Cream Cheese: The star of this chicken salad recipe with cream cheese. Be sure to use full-fat, whipped cream cheese for the best flavor. And make sure it’s room temp for easy mixing. 
  • Mayonnaise. Just enough to loosen the cream cheese and turn it into a dressing. Plus it provides that classic chicken salad richness.
  • Everything Seasoning. Everything Bagel Spice enhances the chicken salad with savory flavor without overpowering it. It also provides a little crispy-crunch. 
  • Salt and Pepper. Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
  • Optional Mix-ins. I like to toss in some fresh herbs (think: parsley, dill, or chives) for herbaceous-fresh flavor, toasted sliced almonds for nutty crunch, and a good squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of acidity. 

Recipe variations

  • Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad. Swap the everything seasoning for ranch seasoning and boom—bacon chicken ranch. 
  • Herby Chicken Salad. Fold in fresh dill, parsley, chives, or a mix of a few fresh herbs for herbaceous flavor.
  • Nutty Crunch Twist. Stir in toasted chopped pecans or sliced almonds for a little toasty crunch.
  • Sweet and Savory Version. Add halved grapes or dried cranberries for a sweet and tangy twist.
  • Spicy Kick. Mix in a pinch of cayenne, minced jalapeño peppers, or a splash of hot sauce.
  • Garlic and Herb Style. Swap the regular whipped cream cheese for herbed cream cheese and mix in some chopped dill and parsley to taste.
Overhead photo of cooked, shredded chicken, cream cheese, crispy bacon, celery, onions, and seasonings in a large mixing bowl.

Chef expert tips for perfect results every time

  • Soften the Cream Cheese. To avoid lumps and ensure a smooth texture.
  • Chop Ingredients Evenly. Ensures every single bite has a balanced flavor and plenty of textural excitement.
  • Mix Dressing First. Combine the soft cream cheese and mayo together before adding the chicken and mix-ins for a flavorful even coating.
  • Don’t Overmix. Gentle folding keeps the chicken tender, not mushy, and ensures a delightful rustic texture. However, you can use a hand mixer if you prefer a more spread-style chicken salad.
  • Chill before serving. A brief chill in the fridge helps the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Season Generously. Cream cheese is very rich and can dull the other ingredients. Taste the salad and use kosher salt, black pepper and lemon to make the flavors sing.
  • Adjust Consistency. Add a touch more mayo or a splash of milk if your cream cheese chicken salad feels too thick.
  • Add Crunchy Ingredients Last. If you’re planning on making this in advance, hold off on adding the celery and bacon until before serving. And be sure to hold-off on stirring in any crunchy add-ins, like nuts, until just before eating. 

Step by step photos: making this recipe at home

If you’re looking for the detailed measurements and full recipe instructions, please scroll down to the bottom of the page. 

FAQs: frequently asked questions

You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers! If you have a question you don’t see listed below, please drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 

Can I use canned chicken?

Absolutely! Just be sure to use a good-quality brand. And, drain the canned chicken well and use a fork to fluff it before mixing to improve the texture slightly.

What kind of chicken works best?

That depends upon your personal taste. However, I personally love to poach chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken (remove and discard skin) for the most flavorful and best texture. However, leftover chicken or the packages of cooked chopped chicken in the refrigerator section of grocery stores also works nicely.

What to add to this chicken salad recipe?

Chicken salad is extremely versatile, and you can add a variety of flavors and ingredients depending on what you like:

  • Hard-boiled Eggs: Finely dice eggs for added creamy texture.
  • Pickles: Add pickle relish or finely dice dill pickles to give the salad a bit of tangy flavor.
  • Bell Peppers: De-seed and finely dice a bell pepper to add a touch of sweet, fresh taste.
  • Olives: Black or green olives lend a meaty texture. Use green olives for a mild flavor and black olives for a stronger flavor.
  • Grapes: Fresh grapes are the perfect way to add a bit of juicy texture.
  • Apple: Peel and dice an apple to add a fresh crunch. Try Fuji or Golden Delicious apples if you like things sweet or Granny Smith if you prefer a bit of tart flavor.
  • Jalapeño: Slice or finely dice a jalapeño for a touch of spicy flavor.
  • Dried Fruit: Cranberries and raisins are always a welcome addition for a bit of chewy texture.! Try brown raisins for a slightly sweet and fruity flavor or golden raisins for a stronger sweet and fruity flavor with a hint of tartness. Or, try cranberries for a hint of sweet and sour flavor.
  • Nuts: Shake things up and add a bit of crunch. Walnuts, almonds, pistachios, cashews or pecans are all delicious. Make sure you toast the nuts to enhance their flavor and texture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you sure can. Just use a dairy-free cream cheese and mayo alternatives to make this chicken salad recipe dairy-free.

How much chicken salad per person?

This chicken salad with cream cheese recipe is perfect for feeding a crowd since it is quick and easy to make, can be made in advance, and keeps well in the refrigerator.

The amount of chicken salad needed per person will greatly depend on how it is being served:

  • For chicken salad served as a main – plan on 8-10 ounces of chicken salad per person
  • For chicken salad served in a sandwich or wrap – plan on 4-6 ounces per person

Serving this chicken salad recipe with cream cheese

  • Elevated Lunch: Pile the chicken salad onto buttery croissants or toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and thick slices of bacon.
  • Wrap it Up: Wrap the salad with leafy baby arugula and slices of avocado in homemade flour tortilla or a pita pocket for an easy grab-and-go lunch.
  • Make it a Salad: Scoop into lettuce cups or serve over leafy greens for a lighter option.
  • Appetizer Style: Serve in a pretty bowl alongside crackers, pita bread chips, crostini, crudités, and some zucchini fries as an appetizer.

Unique serving ideas

  • Brunch Style: Spread the chicken salad over toasted NY style bagel halves and top with cucumber slices and microgreens.
  • Stuff into Tomatoes or Avocados: For a refreshing snack during spring or summer, spoon the cream cheese chicken salad into hollowed-out tomatoes or halves of avocado.
  • Make Tea Sandwiches: Use the salad as a creamy filling for tea sandwiches at holiday brunches and baby showers.
  • Tetrazzini Salad Style: Serve on top of lightly oiled pasta and shredded lettuce for a creamy salad-style tetrazzini.
Close-up angled photo of homemade chicken salad with cream cheese, bacon, veggies, and fresh herbs.

Storing leftovers

  • Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing Instructions: Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended; the cream cheese mixture may separate during thawing.
  • Reheating Instructions: Leftover chicken salad with cream cheese is best when served cold or at room temperature—avoid microwaving or reheating.
Close-up photo of a shredded chicken tossed with veggies and a cream cheese dressing.

Ultra-creamy, perfectly flavorful, and endlessly customizable, this cream cheese chicken salad is the kind of recipe that becomes an instant favorite. With just a few simple ingredients, one bowl, and about 10 minutes, you can whip up something that feels special enough for gatherings, yet easy enough for workday lunches.

Grab some chicken along with a little cream cheese and get ready to fall in love with this creamy, dreamy twist on the classic. And, if you make it, don’t forget to share your results in the comments below or tag me on social media—I love cheering you on in the kitchen!

Cheyanne

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More creamy chicken salads

Overhead photo of cream cheese chicken salad with celery, onions, and pieces of bacon in a large white bowl.

Cream Cheese Chicken Salad

5 from 11 votes
Author: Cheyanne Holzworth
Total Time: 10 minutes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Tired of average chicken salad recipes? Meet this ultra-creamy cream cheese chicken salad. Featuring juicy chicken, velvety cream cheese, crunchy veggies, salty bacon, and flavorful everything spice to create a rich, savory spread that will keep you coming back for more. Best of all, you'll need just 7 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of prep to make it.

Equipment

  • 1 Large Mixing Bowl

Ingredients 

  • 1 pound Cooked Chicken Breasts – shredded or diced
  • ½ Cup Cooked Bacon – crumbled, or more to taste (about 6 slices)
  • 1/2 Cup Celery – finely diced (about 2 small stalks)
  • 1 large Shallot – finely diced
  • 4 ounces Whipped Cream Cheese – at room temperature (SEE NOTES)
  • 1/2 Cup Mayonnaise (substitute: Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream)
  • 1 ½ – 2 TBS Everything Bagel Seasoning – or more to taste (SEE NOTES)
  • To Taste Kosher Salt & Pepper
  • Optional Mix-Ins: Lemon Juice, Sliced Scallions, Toasted Sliced Almonds, Dried Cranberries

Instructions

  • Make the Cream Cheese Dressing: In a large bowl, mix together the cream cheese with the mayonnaise until combined.
  • Toss the Chicken Salad: To the bowl with the cream cheese mixture, add the cooked chicken, bacon, celery, shallots, and everything bagel seasoning. Stir to combine.
  • Adjust for Taste: Taste the bacon chicken salad and adjust for seasoning as you see fit, adding more salt for overall flavor, more everything bagel seasoning for savory flavor, and mayonnaise or cream cheese for a creamier salad.
  • Optional – Chill Chicken Salad: For the best results, cover the bowl of chicken bacon salad and place it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or longer to allow the flavors to develop and marry.
  • Serve as a salad, sandwich, or wrap. Serving suggestions:
    Use an ice cream scoop or large spoon to dollop bacon chicken salad on sandwich bread, croissants, bagels, and english muffins.
    Stuff the salad inside lettuce wraps or tortillas.
    Serve over a bed of leafy greens.
    Enjoy the creamy chicken salad straight from the bowl with your favorite crackers and chips.

Video

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”frb1NpRI” upload-date=”2019-07-07T14:00:59+00:00″ name=”Cream Cheese Chicken Salad with Bacon” description=”Tired of average chicken salad recipes? Meet this ultra-creamy cream cheese chicken salad. Featuring juicy chicken, velvety cream cheese, crunchy veggies, salty bacon, and flavorful everything spice to create a rich, savory spread that will keep you coming back for more. Best of all, you’ll need just 7 simple ingredients and 10 minutes of prep to make it!” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”]

Notes

  1. In my humble opinion, the best chicken for chicken salads is poached chicken. However, you can use rotisserie chicken and leftover roasted, baked, or grilled chicken as well. Just be sure to remove the skin before dicing the chicken, if applicable. 
  2. To quickly shred cooked boneless skinless chicken (breasts or thighs), place warm chicken in a large bowl and use a hand mixer (or stand mixer) on low. Or, add it to the bowl of a food processor and pulse until shredded.
  3. Whipped cream cheese has a lighter, fluffier texture than traditional block cream cheese. It lends a better texture to the chicken salad. You can purchase whipped cream cheese at the store, or whip it yourself to save some coins. Regardless, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing!
  4. The amount of everything bagel seasoning in your chicken salad entirely depends on personal preference. Just like seasoning with salt and pepper, make sure you are seasoning your chicken salad with everything spice to taste!
  5. Need to Scale the Recipe? Hover your mouse over the number of servings in the recipe card. You’ll see a sliding scale pop up, you can use that to scale the recipe up or down as needed.
  6. Got questions? I’ve got answers! If you ever run into an issue, have a question, or need any clarification – please feel free to drop them in the comments section. I’m happy to help when I can! 
Nutritional information is provided as a courtesy and the nutrition facts are an estimate based upon 6 servings. Exact information will depend upon the brands of ingredients and precise measurements used.

Nutrition

Calories: 235kcal    Carbohydrates: 4g    Protein: 29g    Fat: 11g    Saturated Fat: 3g    Cholesterol: 77mg    Sodium: 685mg    Potassium: 276mg    Fiber: 1g    Sugar: 2g    Vitamin A: 170IU    Vitamin C: 0.6mg    Calcium: 43mg    Iron: 0.9mg
Course: Salad
Cuisine: American

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