why make this recipe
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar is a deliciously creamy dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, cheese, and bacon. It’s low in carbs, making it perfect for those on a keto or low-carb diet. This salad is easy to make and packed with protein, making it a great meal for lunch or dinner. The mix of ranch dressing and mayo adds a tangy taste that pairs well with the crunchy green onions and crispy bacon.
how to make Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (I recommend using Rotisserie chicken!)
- 2 tbsp mayo (or light mayo)
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (or light ranch dressing)
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup chopped cooked bacon
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Directions:
- First, add the ranch dressing, mayo, garlic powder, and onion powder to a small bowl. Combine thoroughly.
- Next, add the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, and cooked bacon to a large bowl.
- Pour the ranch dressing mixture on top. Combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve on sandwiches, salads, or lettuce wraps. Enjoy!
how to serve Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar
You can enjoy this chicken salad in many ways. Serve it on toasted bread for a hearty sandwich, on a bed of fresh greens for a light salad, or in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. It’s also great as a dip with vegetable sticks or crackers.
how to store Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar
To store the chicken salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you know you won’t eat it all at once, consider storing the ingredients separately to keep the salad fresh longer.
tips to make Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar
- Use cooked rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
- Adjust the amount of ranch dressing and mayo to fit your preference for creaminess.
- For added crunch, consider mixing in some chopped celery or bell peppers.
- Let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together nicely.
variation
If you want to change things up, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with feta or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor. You could also add diced avocado or cherry tomatoes for an extra layer of taste and nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken in a pinch. Just drain it well and break it up before mixing.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This chicken salad is great for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container and it will last several days.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can replace the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a dairy-free ranch dressing to make it suitable for a dairy-free diet.
Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar (Low Carb)
Equipment
- large bowl
- small bowl
- whisk
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken shredded or diced
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup celery finely diced
- 2 green onion sliced
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded or diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, finely diced celery, and sliced green onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and ranch seasoning mix.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately or chill for later.