Save to Pinterest A fresh, hearty salad inspired by the flavors of the famous Costco Chicken Bake, featuring roasted chicken, crisp greens, smoky bacon, cheese, and a creamy Caesar-inspired dressing.
This salad reminds me of a family favorite we enjoy year-round for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Bacon: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded, 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Greens & Vegetables: 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Cheeses & Bread: 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, 1 cup croutons
- Creamy Caesar-Style Dressing: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 garlic clove, minced, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside or chill.
- Combine vegetables:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Add proteins and cheese:
- Add the diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella, and grated Parmesan to the salad.
- Toss salad:
- Drizzle with the creamy Caesar-style dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Add croutons:
- Top with croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save to Pinterest Our family loves gathering around this salad for a quick dinner that feels both indulgent and fresh.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 calories, 35 g total fat, 18 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein.
Tips for Best Results
Use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience. Prepare the dressing ahead of time to let flavors meld.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light sparkling beverage to complement the smoky bacon and fresh greens.
Save to Pinterest This salad is the perfect balance of creamy and crunchy, making it a winner for any meal.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use leftover roasted chicken for this salad?
Yes, leftover roasted chicken works perfectly and adds convenience without compromising flavor.
- → What can I substitute for bacon in this salad?
Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative that maintains the smoky taste while reducing fat content.
- → Is it possible to make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely, the creamy Caesar-style dressing can be prepared in advance and chilled to enhance its flavors.
- → How do I keep the croutons crunchy when serving?
Add croutons just before serving to ensure they stay crisp and add a satisfying crunch.
- → Can this salad accommodate additional vegetables?
Yes, adding sliced black olives or roasted corn can provide extra texture and flavor variations.