Name: Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 2 h 25 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For Dressing/Marinade:; ⅓ cup honey; 3 tbsp whole grain mustard; 2 tbsp smooth and mild Dijon mustard; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp garlic; salt; 4 chicken thighs; For Salad:; ¼ cup Bacon; 4 cups Romaine lettuce leaves; 1 cup grape tomatoes; 1 large avocado; ¼ cup corn kernels; ¼ red onion

This honey mustard chicken salad with bacon and avocado is a delightful blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe combines crispy chicken thighs with a medley of fresh vegetables, all drizzled with a homemade honey mustard dressing.

honey mustard chicken salad with bacon and avocado recipe

Photos of Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe

If you don't have whole grain mustard or apple cider vinegar in your pantry, you'll need to pick these up at the supermarket. These ingredients are crucial for achieving the distinct flavor profile of the dressing. Additionally, make sure you get fresh chicken thighs, bacon, avocado, and romaine lettuce for the best results.

Ingredients For Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado

Honey: Adds natural sweetness to the dressing.

Whole grain mustard: Provides a tangy flavor and texture.

Dijon mustard: Gives a smooth and mild mustard taste.

Olive oil: Used for the dressing and cooking.

Apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity to balance the flavors.

Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of pungency.

Chicken thighs: The main protein for the salad.

Bacon: Adds a crispy, salty element.

Romaine lettuce leaves: Provides a fresh, crunchy base.

Grape tomatoes: Adds color and sweetness.

Avocado: Contributes creaminess and healthy fats.

Corn kernels: Adds a bit of sweetness and texture.

Red onion: Gives a sharp, bright flavor.

One reader, Eudora Maxey says:

This honey mustard chicken salad with bacon and avocado is a flavor explosion! The dressing is perfectly balanced, and the crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch. The avocado and fresh veggies make it refreshing and satisfying. A must-try for salad lovers!

Eudora Maxey

Techniques Required for Making Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Yes.

How to whisk marinade/dressing ingredients: Combine honey, whole grain mustard, dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, and salt in a bowl and whisk until well mixed.

How to marinate chicken: Place chicken thighs in a shallow dish and pour half of the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for 2 hours if time allows.

How to sear/grill chicken: Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat with a teaspoon of oil. Cook the marinated chicken fillets on each side until golden, crispy, and cooked through.

How to fry bacon: Wipe the pan with a paper towel, add another teaspoon of oil, and fry the bacon until crispy.

How to slice chicken: Once the chicken is cooked and rested, slice it into strips.

How to prepare salad: Arrange romaine lettuce leaves, grape tomatoes, avocado slices, corn kernels, and red onion strips in a bowl.

How to whisk dressing: Whisk 2 tablespoons of water into the reserved marinade to use as a dressing.

How to drizzle dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and sprinkle crispy bacon on top. Season with extra salt and cracked pepper if desired.

How To Make Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado

This chicken salad also has bacon, avocado, fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and corn. They’re all tossed in a honey-mustard dressing that serves as a marinade too.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Marinate Time: 2 hours

Total: 2 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Dressing/Marinade:

⅓cuphoney
3tbspwhole grain mustard
2tbspsmooth and mild Dijon mustard
2tbspolive oil
2tbspapple cider vinegar,or white vinegar, optional
1tspgarlic,minced
salt,to season
4chicken thighs,skinless and boneless, or chicken breasts

For Salad:

¼cupbacon,diced, trimmed of rind and fat
4cupsRomaine lettuce leaves,washed
1cupgrape tomatoes,sliced, or cherry
1large avocado,pitted and sliced
¼cupcorn kernels
¼red onion,sliced

Instructions

Whisk marinade/dressing ingredients together to combine. Pour half the marinade into a shallow dish to marinade the chicken fillets for 2 hours if time allows. Refrigerate the reserved untouched marinade to use as a dressing.
Heat a nonstick pan (or grill pan or skillet) over medium heat with about a teaspoon of oil and sear/grill chicken fillets on each side until golden, crispy and cooked through.
Once the chicken is cooked, set aside and allow to rest.
Wipe pan over with paper towel; drizzle with another teaspoon of oil and fry the bacon until crispy.
Slice chicken into strips and prepare salad with leaves, tomatoes, avocado slices, corn, onion strips and chicken.
Whisk 2 tablespoons of water into the remaining untouched marinade / dressing and drizzle over the salad. Sprinkle the bacon over the top and season with a little extra salt and cracked pepper (optional).

Nutrition

Calories: 746.84kcal
Fat: 51.83g
Saturated Fat: 12.03g
Trans Fat: 0.18g
Monounsaturated Fat: 26.18g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.30g
Carbohydrates: 36.90g
Fiber: 6.93g
Sugar: 26.24g
Protein: 36.26g
Cholesterol: 193.80mg
Sodium: 1006.59mg
Calcium: 59.69mg
Potassium: 1020.54mg
Iron: 2.81mg
Vitamin A: 274.89µg
Vitamin C: 15.15mg

Helpful Technique for Preparing Honey Mustard Dressing

When marinating the chicken, make sure to massage the marinade into the meat thoroughly. This helps the flavors penetrate deeper, ensuring a more flavorful and tender result. If time allows, marinate the chicken overnight for maximum flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Recipe

Marinate in advance: Prepare the marinade the night before and let the chicken marinate overnight to save time.

Pre-cook bacon: Cook the bacon ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat when ready to use.

Use pre-washed greens: Buy pre-washed romaine lettuce to skip the washing and drying step.

Opt for canned corn: Use canned corn instead of fresh to save on cooking time.

Pre-chop vegetables: Chop the tomatoes, avocado, and onion in advance and store them in airtight containers.

Substitute Ingredients For Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe

honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides a similar sweetness and consistency to honey.
whole grain mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a similar tangy flavor, though it lacks the texture of whole grain mustard.
smooth and mild dijon mustard - Substitute with yellow mustard: Yellow mustard is milder and can replace dijon in a pinch.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar has a similar acidity and can be used as a direct replacement.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less potent.
chicken thighs - Substitute with chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are leaner and can be used if you prefer white meat.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that still provides a smoky flavor.
romaine lettuce leaves - Substitute with spinach leaves: Spinach leaves offer a similar texture and are nutrient-dense.
grape tomatoes - Substitute with cherry tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes have a similar sweetness and size.
avocado - Substitute with hummus: Hummus provides a creamy texture and healthy fats, though it lacks the exact flavor of avocado.
corn kernels - Substitute with peas: Peas offer a similar sweetness and can add a pop of color to the salad.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder flavor and can be used as a direct replacement.

Best Way to Present Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Use a large, white plate: This will allow the vibrant colors of the honey mustard chicken salad to stand out and create a visually appealing contrast.
Layer the romaine lettuce leaves as a base: Arrange the lettuce in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each leaf to create a lush, green bed for the salad.
Arrange the chicken strips artistically: Place the sliced chicken in a fan shape on top of the lettuce, ensuring each piece is visible and evenly spaced.
Add grape tomatoes for color: Scatter the tomatoes around the chicken, adding pops of red to the dish.
Place avocado slices strategically: Fan out the avocado slices around the perimeter of the plate, adding a creamy texture and vibrant green hue.
Sprinkle corn kernels evenly: Distribute the corn evenly over the salad to add a touch of sweetness and a burst of yellow color.
Add thin strips of red onion: Place the onion strips delicately over the salad for a hint of sharpness and a splash of purple.
Drizzle the honey mustard dressing: Using a small spoon, drizzle the reserved dressing over the entire salad, ensuring each ingredient is lightly coated.
Top with crispy bacon pieces: Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the salad, adding a savory crunch to the dish.
Garnish with freshly cracked pepper: Finish with a light sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an added layer of flavor and a touch of elegance.

Essential Tools for Making This Chicken Salad Recipe

Whisk: Used to combine the marinade and dressing ingredients until smooth and well-blended.
Shallow dish: Utilized for marinating the chicken fillets in the prepared marinade.
Refrigerator: Keeps the reserved marinade fresh and safe to use as a dressing later.
Nonstick pan: Ideal for searing or grilling the chicken fillets to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
Grill pan: An alternative to the nonstick pan for grilling the chicken with distinct grill marks.
Skillet: Another option for cooking the chicken fillets evenly.
Paper towel: Handy for wiping the pan clean before frying the bacon.
Knife: Essential for slicing the cooked chicken into strips and preparing the salad ingredients.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping and slicing the salad components.
Teaspoon: Measures the oil needed for cooking the chicken and bacon.
Mixing bowl: Used to toss the salad ingredients together.
Serving bowl: Perfect for presenting the finished honey mustard chicken salad.
Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of the honey, mustards, and other dressing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Helps measure smaller quantities of ingredients like garlic and apple cider vinegar.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

To store the honey mustard chicken salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld together and intensify over time, making it even more delicious!
If you want to prepare the salad ahead of time, store the dressing separately from the salad ingredients. This will prevent the lettuce and other vegetables from becoming soggy. When ready to serve, drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken strips for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. To thaw, transfer the chicken to the refrigerator overnight or defrost it in the microwave.
The bacon can also be cooked ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 1 month. To reheat, place the bacon on a baking sheet and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until crispy.
It's best to prepare the avocado fresh when ready to serve the salad, as it tends to brown quickly once cut. If you need to prepare it in advance, squeeze some lemon juice over the avocado slices to prevent oxidation and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day.
The honey mustard dressing can be stored in a jar or airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Give it a good shake or stir before using, as the ingredients may separate over time.

How To Reheat Leftover Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover honey mustard chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the chicken loosely with another piece of foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. This will help keep the chicken moist. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chicken to become rubbery.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your leftover honey mustard chicken. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. This method will help keep the chicken crispy on the outside while staying juicy on the inside.
To reheat the bacon, place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
For the salad greens and vegetables, it's best to store them separately from the chicken and bacon. When ready to serve, toss the greens and vegetables with the reserved honey mustard dressing. If the avocado has turned brown, you can remove the top layer with a spoon and the underneath will still be fresh and green.
If you want to reheat the entire salad, place it in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high for 30-60 seconds, or until the chicken and bacon are warm. Be aware that the salad greens may wilt slightly in the microwave.

Interesting Trivia About Honey Mustard Chicken Salad

A fun fact about this honey mustard chicken salad is that the combination of honey and mustard not only adds a delightful sweet and tangy flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken.

Is Making Honey Mustard Chicken Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

The honey mustard chicken salad with bacon & avocado recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like chicken thighs, bacon, and avocado are relatively affordable and provide a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables. The dressing ingredients such as honey, mustard, and apple cider vinegar are pantry staples that can be used in multiple dishes. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $20-$25 for a household of 4 people.

Is This Chicken Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This honey mustard chicken salad recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors and textures, but it does have some elements that could be adjusted to make it healthier. The use of chicken thighs and bacon adds saturated fat to the dish, while the honey in the dressing contributes to the overall sugar content. However, the salad also includes nutrient-rich ingredients like romaine lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and onion, which provide vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.

To enhance the nutritional value of this salad, consider the following suggestions:

Swap chicken thighs for skinless, boneless chicken breast to reduce the saturated fat content
Use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether to further decrease the saturated fat
Reduce the amount of honey in the dressing and increase the mustard for a lower-sugar option
Add more colorful vegetables to the salad, such as shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers, to boost the fiber and nutrient content
Include a sprinkle of chopped nuts or seeds for added protein, healthy fats, and crunch
Serve the dressing on the side to allow individuals to control the amount used

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nourishing meal that still satisfies your taste buds. Remember, enjoying a variety of whole foods and practicing moderation are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Chicken Salad

This honey mustard chicken salad with bacon and avocado is a delightful blend of flavors and textures. The marinade doubles as a dressing, adding a cohesive taste throughout the dish. The combination of crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and juicy chicken creates a satisfying and balanced meal. The use of both whole grain and dijon mustard in the dressing provides a nuanced depth of flavor. The fresh vegetables add a refreshing crunch, making this salad both hearty and light. Overall, it's a well-rounded and delicious recipe that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Imagine the crispy, golden perfection of potatoes roasted with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a hint of garlic. These little bites of heaven will complement the honey mustard chicken salad with a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.

Butternut Squash Soup: A velvety butternut squash soup with a touch of nutmeg and a swirl of cream can add a warm, comforting element to your meal. The creamy texture and subtle sweetness will harmonize beautifully with the savory notes of the bacon and avocado in the salad.

Cranberry Walnut Quinoa: Add a touch of elegance with a quinoa side dish studded with dried cranberries and toasted walnuts. The nutty flavor of the quinoa combined with the tartness of the cranberries and the crunch of the walnuts will provide a delightful contrast to the creamy avocado and crispy bacon.

Grilled Asparagus with Lemon Zest: For a fresh and zesty addition, consider grilled asparagus lightly drizzled with olive oil and finished with a sprinkle of lemon zest. The bright, citrusy flavor will enhance the honey mustard dressing and add a refreshing touch to the meal.

Mango Salsa: Bring a tropical twist with a vibrant mango salsa. The juicy mango, combined with red onion, cilantro, and a hint of lime, will add a burst of color and a sweet-tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken and bacon in the salad.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love This Chicken Salad

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad: Imagine tender grilled chicken paired with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and a creamy Caesar dressing. Top it off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper for a classic yet satisfying salad.

Avocado Chicken Salad: Dive into a refreshing mix of shredded chicken, creamy avocado, and crisp cucumbers. Add a burst of flavor with cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a zesty lime vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner.

Bacon-Wrapped Chicken with Avocado Salsa: Savor the smoky goodness of bacon-wrapped chicken, grilled to perfection. Complement it with a vibrant avocado salsa made with diced avocado, red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. A delightful fusion of flavors and textures.

Southwest Chicken Salad: Experience a burst of southwestern flavors with grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and bell peppers. Tossed with mixed greens and drizzled with a tangy cilantro-lime dressing, this salad is both hearty and refreshing.

Chicken Avocado BLT Salad: Combine the classic elements of a BLT with grilled chicken and avocado. Crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce come together with a creamy ranch dressing for a salad that's both indulgent and nutritious.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Serve with This Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine a platter of Stuffed Mushrooms that are bursting with flavor. These delightful bites are filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to golden perfection. The mushrooms provide a tender, earthy base that pairs beautifully with the creamy, aromatic filling. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a crispy, umami-rich finish. Serve these warm and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to Italy with a classic Bruschetta. This appetizer features toasted baguette slices topped with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and garlic. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic vinegar elevate the flavors, making each bite a delightful combination of crunch and freshness. Perfect for any gathering, this dish is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center that oozes out as you cut into the cake. This decadent treat pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, gooey chocolate and the cold, creamy ice cream creates a delightful experience for your taste buds. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a touch of elegance.

Lemon Meringue Pie: A zesty lemon filling nestled in a buttery crust and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue makes for a refreshing end to any meal. The tartness of the lemon is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Serve chilled for a cool, refreshing treat, and add a few lemon zest curls on top for an extra burst of citrus aroma.

Why trust this Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe:

This honey mustard chicken salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The chicken thighs are marinated to perfection, ensuring they are juicy and flavorful. The addition of bacon and avocado adds richness, while the grape tomatoes and corn kernels provide a fresh, sweet crunch. The dressing ties everything together with its perfect balance of sweet and tangy. This recipe has been tested and loved by many, making it a trustworthy choice for a delicious and satisfying meal.

If you enjoyed this delicious Honey Mustard Chicken Salad With Bacon & Avocado Recipe, be sure to share your thoughts and experiences in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Ideally, marinate the chicken for about 2 hours. If you're short on time, even 30 minutes will add some good flavor.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts can dry out faster than thighs.

What can I use as a substitute for apple cider vinegar?

You can use white wine vinegar or even lemon juice as a substitute for apple cider vinegar.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

You can prepare the components ahead of time, but it's best to assemble the salad and add the dressing right before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

Sure, you can skip the chicken and bacon. Add more veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or even some grilled tofu for protein.