This Protein-Packed Carnivore Chicken Salad is a tasty way to enjoy chicken with lots of flavor! It’s full of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy dressing.
I love how easy this salad is to whip up for lunch or dinner. Plus, you can add your favorite toppings, like cheese or hard-boiled eggs. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken breast is the star here! You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even leftover grilled chicken. If you’re short on chicken, turkey works too!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a fantastic crunch. Turkey bacon is a good substitute if you want a leaner option, or try smoked sausage for a different flavor twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice bite. If you prefer something milder, you can use mozzarella or even a dairy-free cheese option if you’re going dairy-free.
Mayonnaise: Full-fat mayo is creamier and rich in flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great alternative. It adds protein too!
Sour Cream: This adds tanginess. You could skip it entirely or use plain yogurt as an alternative. Both choices keep the salad creamy!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Salad is Creamy and Flavorful?
To get that delicious, creamy texture in your chicken salad, start with a good base of mayonnaise and sour cream. This mix provides moisture without being overpowering. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to mix the dressing ingredients thoroughly so everything blends well.
- After adding the chicken, fold in the bacon and cheese gently. This keeps the textures distinct and enjoyable.
- Chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes helps the flavors blend and enhances the creaminess.
Feel free to taste and tweak the seasoning before serving, as everyone’s palate varies! Enjoy your chicken salad adventure!
Protein-Packed Carnivore Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (preferably full-fat)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious chicken salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, in just under an hour, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish ready for serving!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dressing:
Start by taking a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a spoon or spatula to stir everything until it’s smooth and well blended. This will be the creamy base for your chicken salad!
2. Mix in the Chicken:
Now, add the shredded cooked chicken to the bowl. Mix everything well so that all the chicken pieces get coated evenly with that delicious dressing. This is where the magic happens!
3. Add Bacon and Cheese:
Next, gently fold in the crumbled bacon and the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Be careful not to break up the chicken too much as you mix. You want those nice chunks of chicken in your salad!
4. Taste and Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your chicken salad. If it needs a little more salt or pepper, go ahead and sprinkle some in to fit your flavor preference. Personalizing the taste is key!
5. Garnish:
If you’d like, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top to make it look extra special. This step isn’t necessary, but it adds a lovely touch!
6. Chill Before Serving:
Cover your bowl or transfer the salad to an airtight container and put it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, your Protein-Packed Carnivore Chicken Salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it as is or with low-carb crackers, lettuce wraps, or any other carnivore-friendly sides you love. Enjoy this delightful dish!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure it’s shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing!
How Long Can I Store Leftover Chicken Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to blend, making it even tastier the next day!
Can I Make This Salad Dairy-Free?
Yes, you can! Substitute the mayonnaise with an egg-free vegan mayo and replace the sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt or a cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free version!
What Can I Serve with This Chicken Salad?
This chicken salad is versatile! Serve it in lettuce wraps, on low-carb crackers, or alongside crispy vegetables. It also works well as a filling for keto-friendly sandwiches!
