Craving a dish that's both hearty and packed with flavor? Look no further than Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad on Grilled Flatbread. This delightful recipe combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a rich ranch dressing, all served on perfectly grilled flatbread. It's an ideal meal for any occasion, offering a balance of savory and fresh ingredients that's sure to satisfy.
Ingredients Needed
For this recipe, you will need:
- 1 pound (450 grams) chicken breast, cooked and diced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup celery, diced
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 flatbreads
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the ranch dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
These ingredients not only make for a delicious meal but also provide a variety of nutrients, including protein from the chicken and bacon, vitamins from the vegetables, and calcium from the cheese.
Preparing the Ingredients
Start by cooking the chicken breast until it's tender and juicy. Season with salt and pepper while cooking. Once cooked, dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces. Prepare the vegetables by halving the cherry tomatoes, finely chopping the red onion, dicing the celery, and chopping the romaine lettuce.
Making the Ranch Dressing
For the ranch dressing, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk in a bowl. Add the minced garlic, fresh dill, parsley, chives, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assembling the Chicken Salad
In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, celery, romaine lettuce, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. For the best flavor, let the salad sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Grilling the Flatbread
Choose flatbreads that are sturdy enough to hold the salad without falling apart. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the flatbreads on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warm and have nice grill marks.
Putting It All Together
To assemble the final dish, place a generous portion of the chicken salad onto each grilled flatbread. Spread it out evenly and garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for a beautiful presentation.
Flavor Enhancements
For those looking to elevate the flavor, consider adding:
- Avocado slices for a creamy texture.
- Jalapeño peppers for a spicy kick.
- Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad on Grilled Flatbread with:
- A side of sweet potato fries for a satisfying crunch.
- A fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
- A cold iced tea or lemonade to balance the richness of the dish.
This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a casual gathering with friends and family.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 500
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25 grams
- Fat: 30 grams
Health Benefits
Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. Bacon, while indulgent, provides a good source of healthy fats when consumed in moderation. Fresh vegetables add a variety of vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Tips for Making the Perfect Chicken Salad
Avoid common pitfalls by following these tips:
- Do not overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Use fresh vegetables: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Let the salad sit: Allowing the salad to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together.