Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 6 · Technique: Chopped Salad · Storage: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Quick Answer
This Avocado Chicken Bacon Chopped Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing is a delightful, colorful, and festive dish perfect for holiday gatherings.
As the holidays approach here in the vibrant tapestry of New York City, I'm always on the lookout for recipes that are not only delicious but also festive enough to impress my guests. This Avocado Chicken Bacon Chopped Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing hits all the right notes. It's a refreshing blend of flavors and textures that feels light and satisfying, perfect as a side dish for a Thanksgiving feast or even as a main attraction at a holiday gathering.
A Festive Holiday Favorite
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- A perfect balance of fresh flavors and textures that highlights the best of seasonal ingredients.
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy holiday gatherings.
- Can be served as a light main dish or a colorful side, appealing to all guests.
- Made with healthy ingredients, ensuring a nutritious option at your table.
- The creamy basil dressing elevates the salad's taste, making it irresistible.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delightful Avocado Chicken Bacon Chopped Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing.
For the Salad:
- 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
For the Creamy Basil Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup fresh basil, packed
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Avocado Chicken Bacon Chopped Salad with Creamy Basil Dressing (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a vibrant and delicious salad that will wow your holiday guests.
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, making sure to scrape down the sides as needed. The fragrant smell of fresh basil will fill your kitchen, creating an invigorating atmosphere. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
Step 2: Toss the Salad
In a large mixing bowl, start by adding the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, chopped bell pepper, and romaine lettuce. Gently stir to combine, taking care not to mash the avocados. The key is to handle the salad lightly to keep it looking fresh and beautiful.
Step 3: Dress the Salad
Drizzle the creamy basil dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently once more. Your goal is to ensure that every ingredient is coated without losing the salad's lovely texture.
Step 4: Serve
Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or into individual bowls. Finish by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese on top, which adds an appealing look and a rich, salty flavor that beautifully ties the dish together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overmixing the Salad: Be gentle when mixing; you want to keep that lovely texture and not turn the avocados into mush.
- Using Dried Basil in the Dressing: It lacks the freshness that elevates this dish; always use fresh basil for the best flavor.
- Skipping the Seasoning: Salt and pepper are crucial! Don't forget to season the dressing and the salad to bring all the flavors to life.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use fresh, ripe avocados to ensure creaminess; they should yield slightly to gentle pressure.
- For added crunch, consider tossing in some toasted nuts or seeds.
- Make the dressing ahead of time and store it in the fridge; it actually develops deeper flavors after a day.
Variations
- Swap out rotisserie chicken for grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
- Use different types of cheese, such as goat cheese or blue cheese, to change the flavor profile.
- Add diced apple or pear for a touch of sweetness.
- Incorporate black beans for an extra protein boost.
How to Serve
- Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls.
- Finish it off with a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese on top for added flavor.
- Serve alongside grilled bread for a more filling meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dressing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator for deeper flavors.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed fresh; do not reheat.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as fresh ingredients do not freeze well.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Preparing this Avocado Chicken Bacon Chopped Salad opened my eyes to the versatility of salads-who knew such a delicious dish could come together so quickly? Each bite is a reminder to incorporate fresh, seasonal ingredients into my holiday meals, proving that lighter fare can still be festive.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 6 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 25g protein · 15g carbs · 22g fat
Recipe by:
Avocado Chicken Bacon Salad with Creamy Basil
Ingredients
Method
- In a food processor, combine the mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh basil, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, diced avocados, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, chopped bell pepper, and romaine lettuce. Gently stir to combine.
- Drizzle the creamy basil dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently once more to ensure all ingredients are coated.
- Transfer the salad to a large serving platter or individual bowls. Finish by sprinkling crumbled feta cheese on top.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing and chop the ingredients ahead of time. However, it's best to assemble the salad just before serving to maintain freshness, especially the avocados.
2. Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! You can use grilled shrimp, turkey, or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Each will bring a unique flavor to the salad.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To help prevent the avocados from browning, drizzle a little extra lemon juice over them before storing.
4. Is there a way to make the dressing lighter?
Yes! You can substitute Greek yogurt for both the mayonnaise and sour cream to reduce the calories and fat while still keeping a creamy texture.
5. What can I serve this salad with?
This salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tasty sandwiches, or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal. It's a versatile dish perfect for any occasion!
