Looking for a quick and delicious meal that everyone will rave about? This Easy Ranch Chicken Salad is your answer.
It’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or a picnic in the park. With tender chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy ranch dressing, this salad is both refreshing and satisfying.
Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Bake the chicken breasts for 20-24 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let the chicken cool before shredding or chopping into small pieces.
- While the chicken is baking, chop up the celery, green onions, and turkey bacon. Place these chopped ingredients into a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate small bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add three tablespoons of water and whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
- Once the chicken has cooled, add it to the large bowl with the chopped vegetables and bacon. Pour the homemade ranch dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve the chicken salad with your choice of crackers, on whole grain bread, or with fresh veggies for a healthier option. Enjoy your homemade ranch chicken salad!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts, cooked and sliced
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 5 slices turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
- 5 green onions, sliced
- 3/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried dill
- 1 teaspoon parsley (dried or fresh)
- 3 tablespoons water
FAQ
- How can I serve Ranch Chicken Salad?
- There are multiple ways to enjoy Ranch Chicken Salad. You can eat it directly with a fork, use it as a filling in a lettuce wrap, or serve it on whole grain bread for added fiber. It pairs well with crackers or veggies too.
- Is using canned chicken a healthy option?
- While canned chicken is a convenient protein source, it often contains a high level of sodium. For a healthier alternative, consider using shredded rotisserie chicken, which avoids the need for raw chicken storage and reduces sodium intake.
- Are homemade ranch dressings healthier than store-bought ones?
- Yes, homemade ranch dressings can be healthier. Store-bought versions often contain high calories and added sugars. Making your own dressing with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise provides a healthier option that supports muscle and body health.
- Why choose turkey bacon over pork bacon?
- Turkey bacon is generally healthier as it contains less saturated fat compared to pork bacon. It also produces less grease when cooked. Opting for turkey bacon can be a better choice for those looking to reduce saturated fat intake.
- How should I store leftover Ranch Chicken Salad?
- Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To maintain freshness if preparing in advance, keep the homemade ranch dressing separate from the other salad ingredients until you are ready to eat.
Tips
- Pre-cook and Cool Chicken Properly: To ensure the chicken retains its moisture and flavor, bake it until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and allow it to cool completely before shredding or dicing. This step helps maintain the chicken’s texture in the salad.
- Enhance Flavors with Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice rather than bottled for a more vibrant and zesty flavor in the ranch dressing, which will enhance the overall taste of the salad.
- Customize with Add-Ins: Consider adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, avocado, or chopped cucumber for additional texture and flavor. This allows you to tailor the salad to your personal taste preferences.
- Store Dressing Separately for Freshness: If preparing the salad ahead of time, store the homemade ranch dressing separately and mix it just before serving to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. This will keep the salad fresh and crisp for longer.
Equipment
- Food Processor – For shredding the chicken to achieve the best texture.
- Whisk – Although many people have a whisk at home, a good quality one could be a new addition for precise mixing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons – While commonly owned, a complete set with specific measurements (like 1 tbsp, 1/2 tsp, 1 tsp, 1/3 cup, 3/4 cup, 1/4 cup, and 1 cup) might be necessary for someone looking to follow the recipe precisely.
