This Protein-Packed Carnivore Chicken Salad is a great mix of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and crunchy veggies. It’s simple to whip up and perfect for a satisfying meal!
I love how filling this salad is while still being super tasty. You can meal prep it for busy days, and it stays delicious in the fridge. What’s not to love about that? 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken Breast: Shredded chicken is the heart of this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or any cooked chicken you have on hand, like leftovers. It makes the prep quicker!
Bacon: Bacon adds a great crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well. Alternatively, crispy bits of cooked pancetta or even a plant-based bacon can spice things up!
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold taste. However, feel free to swap for mild cheddar or any cheese you like, such as pepper jack for a little heat.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo gives a rich taste, but you can use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. It’ll still give creaminess but with added protein.
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess. If you don’t have it, plain yogurt can work too. It’s dairy-friendly and tasty!
How Can You Make Sure This Salad is Well Flavored?
Mixing the dressing properly is key! Start by combining mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings in a separate bowl. This ensures an even distribution of flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Whisk the mayo and sour cream together until smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Add garlic and onion powders, mixing thoroughly to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to enhance flavor, tasting as you go!
Once your dressing is mixed, gently fold it into the chicken and bacon mixture, ensuring everything is coated. This uniform coating helps every bite taste amazing!
Protein-Packed Carnivore Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Ingredient:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional for a slight herb flavor)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an optional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. The chilling time helps the flavors blend beautifully, making this dish a delightful experience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Chicken and Bacon:
In a large bowl, take your shredded cooked chicken and add the chopped bacon. Mix them together gently so that they blend well, and the flavors start to mingle.
2. Add the Cheese:
Now, sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the bowl with the chicken and bacon. Give it a quick stir to spread the cheese evenly among the meat.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to mix everything until it’s smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken, bacon, and cheese in the large bowl. Gently fold the mixture together, making sure all the ingredients are well-coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
5. Add Freshness:
If you’re using fresh parsley, stir it in now for a burst of fresh flavor. It’s completely optional but can brighten up the dish!
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your chicken salad. If you think it needs a little more flavor, feel free to add more salt or pepper according to your preference.
7. Chill Out:
For best results, cover your chicken salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, it’s time to serve! You can enjoy this delicious and protein-packed chicken salad on its own or scoop it into crispy lettuce leaves for a refreshing crunch. Enjoy every delightful bite!
Can I Use Store-Bought Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred the chicken off the bones and use it in the salad. It’ll save you cooking time while adding lots of flavor!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as the ingredients may settle a bit.
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use a vegan mayo and sour cream. You’ll still enjoy a creamy texture without the dairy!
What Can I Serve This Salad With?
This chicken salad is versatile! You can serve it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or with fresh veggies for crunch. You can also enjoy it with crackers or in a sandwich for a more filling meal!
