Chicken bacon ranch loaded salad

When you’re craving something satisfying but still want to keep it fresh, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaded Salad is your answer. With tender, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy ranch dressing, this salad is anything but boring. It’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even meal prep for the week. Each bite is packed with flavor, texture, and just the right amount of indulgence.

Let’s dive into how you can make this hearty salad that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Salad
2. Ingredients You’ll Need
3. Tools and Equipment
4. Step-by-Step Recipe
   • Preparing the Chicken and Bacon
   • Assembling the Salad
   • Making the Creamy Ranch Dressing
5. Tips for Customizing Your Salad
6. Serving Suggestions
7. FAQs and Storage Tips
8. Conclusion: A Salad That Eats Like a Meal

1. Introduction: Why You’ll Love This Salad

This salad is the perfect combination of fresh vegetables and savory, protein-packed ingredients. The balance of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch makes it feel more like a full meal than just a salad. Whether you’re looking to eat low-carb, keto-friendly, or just want a dish loaded with flavor, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Loaded Salad has got you covered.

2. Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious salad:

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (grilled, baked, or rotisserie chicken works great)
• 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
• 4 cups fresh romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, diced (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

For the Ranch Dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup buttermilk (or regular milk for a lighter dressing)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried dill)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried parsley)
• 1 tsp fresh chives, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or white vinegar (for a tangy kick)

3. Tools and Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board and Sharp Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Whisk (for mixing the dressing)
• Skillet (for cooking the bacon and chicken, if not pre-cooked)
• Salad Tongs (for easy serving)

4. Step-by-Step Recipe