Print

Go-To Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad

A vibrant and crunchy chicken salad featuring crispy bacon and homemade ranch dressing, perfect for family gatherings or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (8-ounce) boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 slices raw bacon
  • 5 ounces mixed salad greens
  • 1 large cucumber, sliced
  • 12 green bell peppers, sliced
  • 12 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 12 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup Ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix together the sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Massage this seasoning blend into your chicken breasts.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Heat the avocado oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Cook the Bacon: In the same skillet, add the bacon slices. Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels, then chop into smaller pieces.
  5. Assemble Your Salad: In a large salad bowl, toss together the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, bell peppers, carrots, cherry tomatoes, and diced red onion. Add the sliced chicken and crispy bacon pieces on top.
  6. Dress It Up: Drizzle the ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat everything.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh herbs on top, and serve immediately.

Notes

This salad can be prepped ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken salad, bacon ranch salad, healthy salad, summer salad, easy salad