Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad Recipe

Brace yourself for a delightful explosion of flavors and textures with this Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad. This salad is a harmonious blend of crispy romaine, tender grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy cheddar all brought together by a homemade salsa ranch dressing. The star of the show, however, has to be the sweet, sticky candied bacon - a treat that gives this salad a special touch.

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Photos of Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe should be readily available in your kitchen. However, keep an eye out for fresh romaine lettuce, as wilted leaves can dampen the overall experience of the salad. If you're not accustomed to making your own salsa, a store-bought variant should work just fine. Also, ensure to use thick cut bacon for the candied bacon. The thickness is crucial in achieving the right balance of crispiness and chewiness.

Essential Ingredients for Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad and Candied Bacon

mayonnaise: This is the base for the salsa ranch dressing, providing a creamy texture.

sour cream: Adds a gentle tanginess to the dressing.

salsa: Gives the dressing its characteristic punch.

bacon: Thick cut bacon is ideal for making candied bacon as it can hold up to the candying process without becoming too brittle.

chicken breast: The main protein source for the salad, which we will grill to perfection.

romaine: A crispy, refreshing base for the salad.

black beans: Adds a satisfying bite and extra protein.

cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, savory element to the salad.

tomato: Adds a juicy, refreshing element.

avocado: Lends a creamy contrast to the other salad elements.

tortilla strips: Adds a delightful crunch.

One reader, Dasi Amador says:

This southwest grilled chicken salad with candied bacon recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flavors is simply divine. The candied bacon adds a delightful crunch, and the salsa ranch ties everything together perfectly. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty and flavorful salad.

Dasi Amador

Techniques Required

How to prepare the salsa ranch: Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, salsa, dried parsley, dried dill, salt, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a splash of lemon juice in a food processor or blender. Pulse for about 20 seconds until all the ingredients are combined. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

How to prepare the candied bacon: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Lay thick-cut bacon strips on the wire rack. Brush with maple syrup and sprinkle with brown sugar. Bake for about 15 minutes, then turn the bacon strips over, brush with maple syrup, and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar. Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until desired doneness. Once cooled, dice into small pieces and set aside for the salad.

How to prepare the grilled chicken: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breast, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until no longer pink on the inside. Remove the chicken to a cutting board and allow it to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing.

How to assemble the salad: Lay the romaine down, top with the grilled chicken, candied bacon, diced tomato, black beans, avocado, tortilla strips, and cheese. Drizzle with the salsa ranch and serve immediately. Enjoy!

How To Make Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon

Enjoy bites of smoky chicken, crisp veggies, and homemade candied bacon all in one meal by whipping up this delectable grilled chicken salad recipe!

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 25 minutes

Total: 35 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Salsa Ranch:

½cupmayonnaise
½cupsour cream
¼cupmilk
½cupsalsa
1tspdried parsley
1tspdried dill
¼tspsalt
⅛tspground black pepper
¾tspgarlic powder
¾tsponion powder
lemon juice,a splash

For Candied Bacon:

4slicesbacon,thick cut
¼cupmaple syrup
¼cuplight brown sugar

For Grilled Chicken:

1chicken breast,boneless skinless
¼tspsalt
⅛tspground black pepper
½tbspolive oil

For Salad:

3cupsromaine,chopped
¼cupblack beans
¼cupcheddar cheese,shredded or diced
1small tomato,diced
1avocado,diced
¼cuptortilla strips

Instructions

Salsa Ranch:

Add all of the ingredients to a food processor or blender and pulse for about 20 seconds or until all the ingredients are combined.
Set aside. Store in refrigerator in a sealed container.

Candied Bacon:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top.
Lay the thick cut bacon strips on the wire rack. Brush with the maple syrup and sprinkle the brown sugar on top.
Bake for about 15 minutes. Turn the bacon strips over, brush the tops with the maple syrup and sprinkle with the remaining brown sugar.
Bake for an additional 10 minutes or until desired doneness.
Remove the bacon strips to cool on a plate lined with paper towels. The bacon will crisp and harden as it cools. Once slightly cooled, dice into small pieces and set aside for the salad.

Grilled Chicken:

Pour the olive oil into a small skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add the chicken breast. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Cook for about 6 to 7 minutes then turn the chicken over to continue cooking on the other side. Sprinkle the top with the remaining salt and pepper.
Once chicken is cooked through, no longer pink on the inside, remove the chicken to a cutting board and allow to cool for about 5 minutes prior to slicing.

To Assemble Salad:

Lay the romaine down, top with the grilled chicken, candied bacon, diced tomato, black beans, avocado, tortilla strips and cheese.
Drizzle with the salsa ranch, serve immediately, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 1518.32kcal
Fat: 114.08g
Saturated Fat: 30.02g
Trans Fat: 0.37g
Monounsaturated Fat: 42.17g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 36.17g
Carbohydrates: 87.63g
Fiber: 14.50g
Sugar: 51.20g
Protein: 42.12g
Cholesterol: 166.26mg
Sodium: 1593.19mg
Calcium: 391.38mg
Potassium: 1928.77mg
Iron: 4.57mg
Vitamin A: 537.66µg
Vitamin C: 21.73mg

Mastering the Art of Candying Bacon

When preparing the candied bacon, it's important to keep a close eye on it during the final minutes of baking. The sugar can burn quickly, so it's better to remove it from the oven a bit early if you're unsure. Remember, the bacon will continue to harden as it cools, so don't worry if it seems a bit soft when you first take it out of the oven.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Salad

Prep ahead: Prepare the salsa ranch, candied bacon, and grilled chicken in advance and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Multitask: While the bacon is baking, you can grill the chicken and prepare the salsa ranch dressing to save time.

Organize ingredients: Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients and equipment needed for the recipe to streamline the cooking process.

Use kitchen tools: Utilize kitchen tools like a food processor for the salsa ranch and a wire rack for the candied bacon to make the preparation more efficient.

Batch cooking: Consider making extra grilled chicken and candied bacon to use in other recipes throughout the week, saving time on future meal preparations.

Substitute Ingredients For Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon Recipe

mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to mayonnaise and provides a creamy texture to the dressing.
sour cream - Substitute with plain yogurt: Plain yogurt can be used as a lighter alternative to sour cream while still providing a tangy flavor to the dressing.
milk - Substitute with buttermilk: Buttermilk adds a slightly tangy flavor and creamy consistency to the dressing.
salsa - Substitute with diced tomatoes with green chilies: Diced tomatoes with green chilies can provide a similar flavor profile to salsa in the dressing.
dried parsley - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley can add a brighter and more vibrant flavor to the dressing.
dried dill - Substitute with fresh dill: Fresh dill can provide a more pronounced and aromatic flavor to the dressing.
maple syrup - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness to the candied bacon while providing a similar sticky glaze.
light brown sugar - Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a less refined alternative to brown sugar for the candied bacon.
boneless skinless chicken breast - Substitute with boneless skinless turkey breast: Turkey breast can be used as a leaner alternative to chicken breast for grilling.
romaine - Substitute with mixed greens: Mixed greens can provide a variety of textures and flavors to the salad, similar to romaine.
black beans - Substitute with pinto beans: Pinto beans can be used as a substitute for black beans, providing a similar texture and flavor to the salad.
cheddar cheese - Substitute with Monterey Jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese can provide a milder flavor and creamy texture to the salad.
tortilla strips - Substitute with crumbled tortilla chips: Crumbled tortilla chips can be used as a crunchy alternative to tortilla strips for the salad.

Plating Ideas for a Stunning Presentation

Elevate the salad base: Start by arranging a bed of fresh, vibrant chopped romaine on the plate. This will serve as the foundation for the rest of the dish.
Artful placement of grilled chicken: Slice the succulent, perfectly cooked grilled chicken breast into elegant, thin strips and carefully arrange them on top of the romaine, creating a visually appealing focal point.
Incorporate color and texture: Introduce pops of color and texture by strategically placing vibrant diced tomato, creamy avocado, and crispy tortilla strips around the plate, adding visual interest and depth to the dish.
Integrate the candied bacon: Sprinkle the decadent, golden-brown candied bacon pieces with precision, ensuring they are evenly distributed to provide a delightful contrast of sweet and savory flavors.
Garnish with black beans and cheddar cheese: Sprinkle a delicate portion of black beans and finely grated cheddar cheese over the salad, adding a touch of richness and depth to the overall presentation.
Drizzle with the salsa ranch: Using a steady hand, elegantly drizzle the creamy, zesty salsa ranch dressing over the salad, creating a beautiful, cascading effect that enhances the visual appeal of the dish.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the overall composition, ensuring that each element is thoughtfully placed to create a visually stunning and appetizing presentation that will captivate the senses.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Salad

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making sauces, salsas, and dressings.
Baking sheet: A baking sheet, also known as a sheet pan, is a flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and cooking foods in the oven. It's essential for roasting vegetables, baking cookies, and cooking meats.
Wire rack: A wire rack, often used in conjunction with a baking sheet, is a metal rack with a grid-like surface. It's used for cooling baked goods, as well as for roasting meats and allowing excess fat to drip away.
Skillet: A skillet, also known as a frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's an essential tool for cooking the grilled chicken in this recipe.
Cutting board: A cutting board is a durable surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients. It provides a safe and stable area for slicing and dicing meats, vegetables, and other foods.
Small bowl: A small bowl is used for mixing and combining small quantities of ingredients. It's handy for preparing marinades, seasoning mixtures, and dressings.
Mixing spoon: A mixing spoon, often made of wood or silicone, is used for stirring, mixing, and combining ingredients. It's an essential tool for blending the salsa ranch and other dressings.
Oven: An oven is a kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat. It's essential for baking the candied bacon and roasting various ingredients.
Blender: A blender is a kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, and emulsify ingredients. It's useful for creating smooth and creamy dressings, sauces, and salsas.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad

To store leftover southwest grilled chicken salad, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Store the salsa ranch dressing separately in a sealed container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to a week.
For best results, store the grilled chicken, candied bacon, and other salad ingredients separately from the romaine lettuce. This will prevent the lettuce from getting soggy.
When ready to serve, assemble the salad with the stored ingredients and drizzle with the salsa ranch dressing.
If you want to freeze the grilled chicken for later use, let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
To freeze the candied bacon, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 1 month.
Note: The salsa ranch dressing, romaine lettuce, and other fresh salad ingredients do not freeze well and should be prepared fresh when ready to serve the salad.

How To Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftover southwest grilled chicken salad with candied bacon, the best way to reheat it is to separate the components and reheat them individually. This will help maintain the texture and flavor of each ingredient.
Remove the grilled chicken, candied bacon, and tortilla strips from the salad and set them aside. These items can be reheated, while the rest of the salad is best served cold.
To reheat the grilled chicken, place it in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
For the candied bacon, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bacon strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until crispy and heated through. Keep a close eye on the bacon to prevent burning.
If the tortilla strips have become soggy, you can crisp them up by placing them on a baking sheet and baking them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 3-5 minutes, or until they regain their crunch.
Once the grilled chicken, candied bacon, and tortilla strips are reheated, reassemble the salad by placing the cold ingredients (romaine lettuce, black beans, cheddar cheese, tomato, and avocado) in a bowl and topping them with the warm ingredients.
Drizzle the salsa ranch dressing over the salad just before serving, as adding it too early may cause the salad to become soggy.
If you have leftover salsa ranch dressing, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Random Fact about Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad

The Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon recipe is a delicious combination of flavors and textures. It brings together the smoky grilled chicken, sweet and savory candied bacon, and the refreshing salsa ranch dressing. This recipe is a perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and a touch of indulgence with the candied bacon. It's a great way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying salad that's packed with flavor.

Is Making This Salad at Home Cost-Effective?

This southwest grilled chicken salad with candied bacon recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of basic ingredients like chicken, bacon, and vegetables keeps the cost reasonable. However, the candied bacon and salsa ranch may increase the overall cost slightly. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25. The flavorful combination and the use of simple ingredients make this recipe a solid 8/10.

Is This Salad Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This southwest grilled chicken salad recipe has both healthy and unhealthy elements. Let's break it down:

Healthy components:

Grilled chicken breast is a lean protein source
Romaine lettuce provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals
Black beans offer additional protein and fiber
Tomato and avocado contribute healthy fats and nutrients

Unhealthy components:

The salsa ranch dressing is high in fat and calories due to the mayonnaise and sour cream
Candied bacon is high in sugar and saturated fat
Cheddar cheese adds saturated fat and calories
Tortilla strips are likely fried and high in unhealthy fats

While this salad has some nutritious ingredients, the dressing, candied bacon, and tortilla strips make it less healthy overall.

To make this salad healthier, consider these suggestions:

Replace the salsa ranch with a lighter, yogurt-based dressing or a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and lime juice
Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and omit the candied coating to reduce sugar and fat
Swap the cheddar cheese for a lower-fat option like feta or goat cheese, or use a smaller amount
Replace the tortilla strips with crushed baked tortilla chips or omit them entirely
Add more colorful vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or cucumbers to increase the nutrient content

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious salad that still packs plenty of flavor and satisfaction.

Editor's Opinion on the Flavors and Textures

The combination of flavors and textures in this Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon recipe is truly exceptional. The homemade salsa ranch adds a zesty kick, complementing the smoky grilled chicken and sweet, crunchy candied bacon. The salad components come together harmoniously, offering a delightful mix of fresh, savory, and indulgent elements. This recipe is a perfect balance of indulgence and nutrition, making it a versatile and satisfying dish for any occasion.

Enhance Your Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Elevate the classic grilled corn on the cob by brushing it with a spicy chili lime butter and sprinkling it with cotija cheese for a burst of flavor.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Create a creamy and flavorful garlic mashed potatoes by adding roasted garlic and a touch of parmesan cheese for a delicious twist on a traditional side dish.

Fruit Salad: Whip up a refreshing and colorful fruit salad with a honey lime dressing, combining a variety of fresh fruits for a sweet and tangy accompaniment to the grilled chicken salad.

Similar Salad Recipes to Try Next

Grilled Vegetable Skewers: Marinate the vegetables in a zesty herb and garlic marinade before grilling to perfection on skewers.

Honey Mustard Glazed Salmon: Coat the salmon in a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze before baking until flaky and delicious.

Mango Salsa Chicken Tacos: Top grilled chicken with a refreshing and fruity mango salsa, then serve in warm tortillas for a flavorful taco night.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Create a rich and creamy risotto by slowly cooking arborio rice with flavorful mushrooms and a touch of white wine.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fries: Indulge in these crispy zucchini fries, lightly breaded and fried to perfection. Served with a side of tangy marinara sauce, they're a delicious and addictive starter for any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a velvety smooth and decadent chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The rich and creamy texture will melt in your mouth, leaving you craving for more.

Apple Crisp: Savor the warm and comforting flavors of a homemade apple crisp, with tender cinnamon-spiced apples nestled beneath a crispy oat topping. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

Why trust this Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying and wholesome meal. The salsa ranch dressing adds a zesty kick, while the candied bacon provides a perfect balance of sweetness and smokiness. The succulent grilled chicken is seasoned to perfection, and when combined with the crisp romaine, creamy avocado, and hearty black beans, it creates a harmonious blend of tastes and nutrients. The attention to detail in each step guarantees a restaurant-quality dish that's both delicious and nutritious. Trust in this recipe for a memorable dining experience.

Have you tried this Southwest Grilled Chicken Salad with Candied Bacon Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

What is the best way to cook the bacon for this salad?

For this recipe, I recommend baking the bacon in the oven. This method allows the bacon to cook evenly and become crispy, while also allowing the excess fat to drip away.

Can I make the salsa ranch dressing in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare the salsa ranch dressing ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. It's actually a great idea to let the flavors meld together for a while before using it on the salad.

Can I use a different type of cheese in the salad?

Yes, you can definitely customize the salad with your favorite cheese. While the recipe calls for cheddar cheese, feel free to use any cheese that you prefer, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled queso fresco.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to the grilled chicken in this salad?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh. Marinate the tofu or tempeh with your favorite southwest-inspired seasonings for a delicious meat-free alternative.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add or swap out any vegetables based on your preferences. Consider adding bell peppers, corn, or even roasted sweet potatoes to enhance the flavors and textures of the salad.