why make this recipe
This Ultimate Dinner Salad fills you up and tastes fresh. It has grilled chicken, bacon, eggs, and summer veggies. It cooks fast and works as a full meal. It is easy to change to what you like.
introduction
This salad brings protein, crunch, and bright flavors in one bowl. You can make it for a quick weeknight or for guests. If you like bold grilled flavors, try a similar idea like Ultimate Grilled Chicken Salad Bowl with Tzatziki to get more ideas.
how to make Ultimate Dinner Salad
Make each part simple and keep it fresh. Grill the chicken first, cook the bacon, and hard boil the eggs. Chop the vegetables and mix everything with the ranch. Toss gently so the salad stays bright and not soggy.
Ingredients :
- Grilled chicken cutlets
- Bacon
- Eggs
- Fresh summer veggies (e.g., tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers)
- Creamy homemade ranch dressing
Directions :
- Grill chicken cutlets until cooked through.
- Cook bacon until crispy.
- Hard boil eggs, then peel and slice.
- Chop fresh summer veggies.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, bacon, sliced eggs, and chopped veggies.
- Drizzle with creamy homemade ranch dressing and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
how to serve Ultimate Dinner Salad
Serve the salad right after you toss it so the veggies stay crisp. Plate it on a large platter or serve in individual bowls. Add warm bread or a light side like the Autumn Harvest Honeycrisp Apple and Feta Salad for a sweet contrast.
how to store Ultimate Dinner Salad
Store parts separately for best results. Keep grilled chicken, bacon, and hard boiled eggs in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store chopped veggies and dressing separately for 1-2 days. Once mixed with dressing, eat within a few hours for best texture.
tips to make Ultimate Dinner Salad
- Cook chicken and bacon ahead to save time.
- Cool the chicken and bacon before packing into the fridge.
- Dry vegetables well so the salad does not get watery.
- Make the ranch dressing fresh for the best taste.
- If you want more meal ideas with cooked chicken, see these best 7 chicken casserole recipes.
variation (if any)
- Swap grilled chicken for sliced steak or cooked shrimp.
- Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter salad.
- Add avocado, olives, or cheese for more flavor.
- Try a vinaigrette instead of ranch for a lighter dressing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.
Q: How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?
A: Keep dressing separate and dry the veggies before mixing.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Skip chicken and bacon, add chickpeas or cooked tofu for protein.
Q: How long will the salad last after mixed?
A: It is best eaten within a few hours once dressed. Leftovers get soft.
Q: Can I freeze any part?
A: Cooked chicken freezes well, but veggies and dressing do not freeze well.
Conclusion
For more hearty salad ideas that can stand alone as a dinner, see 12 Big, Hearty Salad Recipes That Hold Their Own As Dinner.
Ultimate Dinner Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Grill chicken cutlets until cooked through.
- Cook bacon until crispy.
- Hard boil the eggs, then peel and slice.
- Chop fresh summer veggies.
- In a large bowl, combine grilled chicken, bacon, sliced eggs, and chopped veggies.
- Drizzle with creamy homemade ranch dressing and toss to combine.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!