If you’re looking for a hearty, protein-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying, then my carnivore loaded chicken salad is just the thing! This dish is a glorious medley of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, all brought together with a zesty dressing. Trust me, every bite is a flavor explosion that’ll keep you coming back for more. Plus, it takes just 10 minutes to whip up, making it perfect for busy days or meal prep. You’ll love how easy it is to enjoy a low-carb, high-protein dish that’s utterly crave-worthy!
Ingredients List
To make my carnivore loaded chicken salad, here’s everything you’ll need. I promise, it’s super straightforward, and the measurements are all right here for you to follow. Don’t worry; you can always adjust based on your taste!
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for ease!)
- 1/2 cup bacon, crumbled (Because who doesn’t love crispy bacon?)
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (Feel free to use sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor!)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (This adds a creamy touch that ties everything together)
- 2 tablespoons mustard (I recommend Dijon for a bit of zing!)
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (For that fresh crunch and pop of color)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Always season to your liking!)
How to Prepare Instructions
Making my carnivore loaded chicken salad is a breeze! The steps are super simple, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Just follow along, and you’ll be enjoying this hearty salad in about 10 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. I like to use my hands to mix it a little for that personal touch!
- Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, and sliced green onions. Wow, the colors are so vibrant!
- Mix everything together until it’s well combined. You want each bite to be packed with flavor!
- Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t skip this part; it really brings the whole salad to life!
- Serve chilled or at room temperature. Trust me, it’s fantastic either way!
And just like that, you’ve got a protein-packed salad that’s ready to impress! Enjoy your creation right away or store it in the fridge for later. Yum!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk nutrition! My carnivore loaded chicken salad is not just tasty; it’s also packed with great nutritional benefits. Here’s a rough estimate of what you can expect per serving (that’s about 1 cup):
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on your exact ingredients and portions. But rest assured, this salad is a fantastic low-carb, high-protein option that’ll keep you fueled and satisfied!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Honestly, there are so many reasons to adore my carnivore loaded chicken salad! First off, let’s talk about how quick it is to whip up. With just a mere 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty, satisfying meal on your table in no time. It’s perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s wonderfully low in carbs and packed with protein, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthy while still enjoying rich flavors!
Quick Preparation
Did I mention it only takes 10 minutes? That’s right! You can go from zero to deliciousness faster than you can decide what to binge-watch next. This salad is an absolute lifesaver for meal prep—just make a big batch, and you’ve got lunch or dinner ready for days. How awesome is that?
Healthy Ingredients
Now, let’s dive into what makes this salad not just tasty but also nutritious! The base of shredded chicken is a lean source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and energy. Then there’s the crispy bacon—it adds flavor and a satisfying crunch! And we can’t forget about the creamy cheddar cheese, which not only tastes amazing but also provides calcium. The green onions bring in a fresh, vibrant touch, making every bite feel light and refreshing. This salad is a delightful mix of flavors and nutrients, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring!
Tips for Success
To make my carnivore loaded chicken salad truly shine, I’ve got some expert tips that’ll elevate your dish to the next level! First off, don’t be afraid to get creative with your ingredients. If you have leftover grilled chicken or turkey, feel free to toss that in instead of just plain rotisserie chicken. It’ll add a unique flavor twist!
Next, for an extra kick, try adding a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to the mix. It’ll take the taste up a notch and keep things exciting! Also, if you’re a cheese lover like me, mixing in some pepper jack or gouda can add a delightful surprise.
When it comes to prep, make sure to chop your green onions finely; it helps distribute that fresh flavor throughout the salad. And always remember to taste as you go! Adjusting the seasoning is key—what might be perfect for me could need a bit more salt or pepper for your palate.
Lastly, if you plan on storing leftovers, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This way, the salad maintains its freshness and crunch! Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when you dig in!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up my carnivore loaded chicken salad! Let’s get creative and personalize it to your taste buds. Here are some ideas that’ll keep things exciting!
- Different Meats: Why not mix in some diced ham or even leftover steak? Each meat brings its own unique flavor and texture, making every bite a new experience!
- Cheese Choices: Swap out the cheddar for pepper jack if you love a little heat, or go for crumbled blue cheese for a bold twist. Creamy feta could also add a delightful tang!
- Veggie Add-Ins: If you want to sneak in some greens, try adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch. It’s a great way to boost the salad’s color and nutrition!
- Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. A sprinkle of garlic powder or smoked paprika can add depth to the taste, too!
- Dress It Up: Instead of mayonnaise, try Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or add a bit of ranch dressing for a fun twist. You can even drizzle in some olive oil and vinegar for a zesty flair!
With these variations, you can make this salad your own and keep it fresh and exciting with every serving. Get ready to experiment and enjoy your delicious creations!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers of my carnivore loaded chicken salad is super easy! Just place it in an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay fresh for about 3 days, so you can enjoy it for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Trust me, it tastes just as good after a day or two!
If you’re planning to store it, I recommend keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve. This helps maintain that delightful crunch and creamy texture. Just give it a good mix before diving in again!
Now, if you’re wondering about reheating, I’d say there’s no need! This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. But if you’re really craving a warm dish, you could gently warm the chicken in the microwave before mixing it back into the salad. Just be careful not to overheat it, as you want to keep all those delicious flavors intact!
So, whether you’re enjoying it right away or saving some for later, you can’t go wrong with this hearty, protein-packed salad! Yum!
Print
Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad: 10-Minute Flavor Burst
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
A hearty carnivore loaded chicken salad packed with protein.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons mustard
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken and crumbled bacon.
- Add cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, mustard, and green onions.
- Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Adjust ingredients according to taste.
- This salad is great for meal prep.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: carnivore loaded chicken salad