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Delicious summer chicken salad with bacon and fresh ingredients

Summer Chicken Salad with Hot Bacon Dressing

A delightful summer salad combining fresh greens and savory hot bacon dressing, perfect for various occasions.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course, Salad
Cuisine American, Summer
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the hot bacon dressing

  • 6 slices thick-cut slices of bacon, chopped Adds savory richness
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil Provides moisture
  • 1 unit shallot, thinly sliced Offers sharp flavor
  • 1-2 cloves garlic, grated Adds depth
  • 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar Adds acidity
  • 1 tablespoon fig preserves Brings subtle sweetness
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves Provides earthy note
  • to taste chili flakes Adds heat
  • to taste kosher salt and pepper Enhances flavor

For the salad

  • 1 cup torn ciabatta bread Creates croutons for crunch
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens Base of the salad
  • 2 cups grilled chicken, cubed or shredded Provides protein
  • 1-2 units roasted/grilled bell peppers, sliced Adds sweetness and color
  • 3 ears grilled corn, kernels removed from the cob Offers sweetness and texture
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved Contributes freshness
  • 1 unit avocado, sliced Provides creaminess
  • 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese or feta cheese Adds tangy richness

Instructions
 

Preparing the dressing

  • In a glass jar, combine the olive oil, shallot, garlic, apple cider vinegar, fig preserves, fresh thyme, chili flakes, kosher salt, and pepper. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Cooking the bacon

  • Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain onto paper towels to absorb excess grease and stir into the dressing in the jar.

Making croutons

  • In the same skillet, add torn ciabatta bread and toss in the remaining bacon grease over medium heat. Cook until toasted and golden brown, about five minutes. Add grated garlic, season with salt, and remove from heat.

Assembling the salad

  • In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, grilled chicken, bell peppers, corn, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and croutons. Toss gently and pour the warm bacon dressing over. Toss again to coat.

Notes

Prepare the dressing while cooking the bacon for a smoother workflow. Ensure bacon is crispy for the best texture, and adjust the acidity of the dressing to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 20gFat: 26gSaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 3g
Keyword Bacon Dressing, chicken salad, comfort food, Healthy Eating, Summer Salad
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