Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad is the ultimate comfort food that’s both satisfying and healthy. It combines the richness of cheddar cheese, the crunch of bacon, and the creaminess of ranch dressing, making it incredibly flavorful without all the carbs. Whether you’re enjoying it in a wrap, a sandwich, or as a standalone salad, it’s the perfect dish to prepare in under 15 minutes. Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein, making it a great option for a quick lunch or a low-carb dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded (Rotisserie chicken is recommended for convenience)

2 tbsp mayo (or light mayo for a healthier option)

1/4 cup ranch dressing (or light ranch dressing for a lighter version)

1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/3 cup chopped cooked bacon

2 tbsp chopped green onions

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

Salt to taste

Pepper to taste

Directions

In a small bowl, combine the ranch dressing, mayo, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly.

In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, cheddar cheese, green onions, and cooked bacon.

Pour the ranch dressing mixture over the chicken mixture. Stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the salad on a bed of greens, in sandwiches, or wrapped in lettuce leaves. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 3–4 servings

Prep time: 15 minutes

Total time: 15 minutes

Variations

Swap the cheese: Try using other cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

Use Greek yogurt: For a tangier, lighter version, substitute the mayo with Greek yogurt.

Add more veggies: For extra crunch and freshness, consider adding chopped celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.

Add avocado: For a creamy, healthy fat boost, try adding sliced avocado to the salad.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Since this salad is served cold, there’s no need to reheat it. Simply take it out of the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just wait to add the green onions and bacon until serving for the freshest flavor.

Can I use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! If you prefer grilled or baked chicken, that will work just as well. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded before adding it to the salad.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the cheddar cheese for a dairy-free cheese and use a non-dairy mayo and ranch dressing alternative.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t include any gluten-containing ingredients.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add a teaspoon of hot sauce or some chopped jalapeños to the mix to spice things up.

Can I freeze this salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze this salad due to the mayonnaise and ranch dressing. Freezing can cause the dressing to separate when thawed.

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes! You can easily substitute turkey bacon for a lower-fat option. Just make sure it’s cooked and crispy before adding it to the salad.

How do I make this recipe more filling?

For a heartier meal, add a boiled egg or some avocado for extra protein and healthy fats.

Can I make this recipe without ranch dressing?

Yes, you can use any creamy dressing you like, such as blue cheese dressing or a homemade dressing made with yogurt and herbs.

Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, this salad works well for meal prep. Just store the ingredients separately (especially the dressing) until ready to serve to keep everything fresh.

Conclusion

Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad with Cheddar is a quick, flavorful, and low-carb meal that’s perfect for busy days. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying lunch or a healthy dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes. With its rich flavors, creamy texture, and protein-packed ingredients, you’ll find yourself making this one regularly. Enjoy it in wraps, on top of salads, or in a simple bowl—however you serve it, it’s guaranteed to please!

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