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When I want a showstopping salad that steals the spotlight at summer potlucks or brightens up my weeknight dinner routine I turn to this chicken bacon ranch layered salad Each layer is loaded with crisp veggies savory chicken smoky bacon and creamy ranch dressing creating an irresistible mix of textures and flavors that always disappears fast
I remember serving this for a backyard barbecue and everyone wanted the recipe friends still text me photos when they remake it
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce: chopped into small pieces for the perfect fluffy base Look for large crisp heads with deep green leaves
- Ranch dressing: the signature flavor that ties everything together Use a homemade version or your favorite thick and tangy store brand
- Chicken: cooked and diced grilled or rotisserie is best for tender bites Make sure it is well seasoned before adding
- Salt and pepper to taste: for brightening all the flavors Use freshly ground black pepper and a sprinkle of sea salt for best results
- Red bell pepper: chopped for color sweetness and crunch Pick peppers that are firm and glossy
- Bacon: crumbled for smoky crispy bites Cook until just shy of crisp so it holds up in the salad
- Avocado: diced for creaminess and richness Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the ideal texture
- Tomatoes: diced for juicy bursts of flavor Use ripe tomatoes for the best taste avoid any that feel mealy
- Cheddar jack cheese: grated for richness and tang Opt for a sharp cheddar blend for more robust flavor
- Hard-boiled eggs: peeled and diced for protein and a smooth finish Cook the eggs just until set for an even texture
- Green onions: chopped using just the green parts for a touch of zesty bite Look for bright green firm stalks
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Layer the Lettuce:
- Start by spreading half of the chopped romaine in the bottom of a glass trifle bowl or any large deep dish Making sure the lettuce is dry helps keep layers crisp
- Drizzle the Dressing:
- Drizzle a portion of ranch dressing over the lettuce Try to cover most of the surface for even flavor but let some spots remain undressed if you want a lighter texture
- Add the Chicken:
- Scatter half of the chicken evenly over the lettuce and dressing Season with salt and pepper to taste Press lightly so the chicken stays put in the layers
- Layer the Veggies and Eggs:
- Spread half each of the red bell pepper crumbled bacon diced avocado tomatoes cheese and hard-boiled eggs on top of the chicken Make sure to keep the colors separated for a stunning look through the side of the bowl
- Repeat the Layers:
- Repeat all the layers in the same order ending with grated cheese and diced eggs on top
- Finish with Dressing and Onions:
- Drizzle the remaining ranch dressing over the top Sprinkle with lots of chopped green onions and another twist of black pepper if you like
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My favorite ingredient is definitely the bacon because it brings just the right amount of smoky crunch My daughter loves adding extra avocado on top and now every layered salad we make together ends with a little avocado heart on the very center
Storage Tips
Keep the salad undressed if making ahead and store tightly covered in the fridge The veggies stay crisp for up to two days Add the dressing just before serving for the freshest taste If you have leftovers with dressing already added eat within a day to avoid soggy lettuce
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap ingredients try using turkey bacon for a lighter option or rotisserie turkey instead of chicken For dairy-free diets opt for a vegan ranch and a dairy-free cheese Tomatoes can be swapped for halved cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers if you want a sweeter depth
Serving Suggestions
Serve this salad as a main dish with a side of garlic bread or fresh rolls For buffets or picnics layer it in mason jars for easy grab and go portions It is also a fantastic companion to grilled burgers at a summer cookout
Cultural and Historical Context
Layered salads like this are a Midwestern party classic Often called seven layer salad they became popular in the 1950s for presenting fresh ingredients in clear glass bowls This version is inspired by Southern flavors with ranch bacon and bright vegetables making each bite nostalgic and crowd-pleasing
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this salad?
Diced grilled or rotisserie chicken is ideal for tender bites and smoky flavor, but leftover chicken can be used as well.
- → Can I prepare this salad in advance?
Yes, you can layer ingredients ahead. Add avocados and dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
- → What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
Try blue cheese, Caesar, or a creamy vinaigrette to match personal preference and dietary needs.
- → How do I keep avocados from browning?
Add lemon juice to diced avocados to preserve color and flavor until ready to serve.
- → Is there a vegetarian option?
Skip the bacon and chicken or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly salad with similar texture and taste.