Introduction
This delightful salad is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds singing. With grilled chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing, it’s not only delicious but also a great option for a healthy meal. Ideal for lunch or dinner, this recipe is simple to follow and can be customized to your liking.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Dressing and Marinade:
– ½ cup Dijon mustard
– ½ cup mayonnaise
– ¼ cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Salad:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 4 slices bacon, chopped
– 6 cups mixed greens
– 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
– 1 avocado, sliced
– ¼ cup sliced green onions
– ¼ cup thinly shaved radish
Prep Time
30 minutes (can marinate for up to 24 hours)
Cook Time
12 minutes
Total Time
42 minutes (plus marinating time)
Yield
Serves 4
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, honey, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil until well combined.
Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry and slice them in half horizontally to create four cutlets. Season both sides with salt and pepper. Place the chicken in a large resealable plastic bag.
Marinate the Chicken
Pour one-third of the dressing mixture over the chicken in the bag. Seal the bag and toss to coat the chicken evenly. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours. Reserve the remaining dressing in the refrigerator for serving.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill on both sides until cooked through, approximately 4-5 minutes per side. Set aside to rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
Cook the Bacon
While the chicken is cooking, cook the chopped bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
Assemble the Salad
To assemble the salad, divide the mixed greens among serving bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, crispy bacon, halved tomatoes, sliced avocado, green onions, and shaved radish.
Dress the Salad
Drizzle the reserved dressing over each salad and serve immediately.
Notes
Chicken Marinade
Allowing the chicken to marinate longer enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Bacon Crispiness
Ensure the bacon is cooked until crispy for the best texture and flavor in the salad.
Serving Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables or toppings such as cucumbers, bell peppers, or nuts for extra crunch.
Cook techniques
Whisking
Incorporate the dressing ingredients by whisking them together until smooth and well blended.
Marinating
Enhance the flavor of the chicken by marinating it in a mixture of dressing for at least 30 minutes to 24 hours.
Grilling
Cook the marinated chicken on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until fully cooked through.
Cooking Bacon
Render fat from bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches crispy perfection.
Assembling the Salad
Layer mixed greens with toppings such as grilled chicken, bacon, tomatoes, avocado, green onions, and radish for a vibrant salad.
Drizzling
Finish the salad by drizzling reserved dressing over the top just before serving.
FAQ
Can I use other types of mustard for the dressing?
Yes, you can substitute with yellow mustard or whole grain mustard for different flavor profiles.
How long can I store the leftover dressing?
The remaining dressing can be refrigerated for up to a week.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu are great alternatives.
What kind of greens can I use for the salad?
You can use any combination of greens like romaine, spinach, or arugula.
Can I prepare the salad in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp.
Conclusion
This delectable salad combines the savory flavors of grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, all brought together with a tangy, homemade dressing. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will satisfy your cravings.
Chicken Salad with Greek Yogurt Dressing
Swap the mayo in the dressing for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist while maintaining creaminess.
Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables
Add roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option packed with nutrients.
Mixed Greens with Pomegranate Seeds and Feta
Top the salad with pomegranate seeds and crumbled feta cheese for a burst of sweetness and creaminess.
Asian Chicken Salad
Use sesame oil and soy sauce in the dressing and add mandarin oranges, shredded carrots, and sliced almonds.
Southwestern Chicken Salad
Incorporate corn, black beans, and avocado with a cilantro-lime dressing for a zesty southwestern flair.
Seafood Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Replace chicken with shrimp or crab meat and dress it with a light lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing seafood salad.
Caprese Salad with Grilled Chicken
Layer fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil with grilled chicken, drizzled with balsamic glaze for an Italian-inspired dish.
