This CHICKEN BACON RANCH LAYER SALAD

This stunning Chicken Bacon Ranch Layer Salad is a delightful twist on the classic seven-layer salad. Featuring layers of crisp green leaf lettuce, vibrant peppers, sweet corn, juicy tomatoes, tangy onions, sharp cheddar cheese, savory roast chicken, and crunchy crumbled bacon, all dressed in a creamy homemade salad dressing, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. Perfect as a standalone meal, this salad shines at summer picnics and pairs wonderfully with soup and warm garlic bread during the colder months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Layer salads are like edible centerpieces, especially when crafted in a trifle or large glass bowl. They offer endless variations, from the classic Seven-Layer Salad to the Easy Rainbow Layer Salad. For a special occasion, consider a dressed-up main dish salad like Avocado Shrimp Cobb or Tex-Mex Cobb Salad. You can even pack healthy layer salads in mason jars for a convenient lunch or picnic treat. If you don’t have a trifle bowl, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Salad works perfectly in a 9 x 13-inch cake pan, making it easy to transport to outdoor, church, or office gatherings. Just adjust the layers to fit. For the dressing, try my Avocado Lime Ranch or Garlic & Herb Buttermilk dressing, or use a quality prepared dressing for convenience. This scrumptious salad is sure to be a hit at your next party or picnic.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large trifle or glass bowl (or a 9 x 13-inch cake pan)
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups
• Spoon for drizzling dressing

Ingredients

• 1 recipe Avocado Lime Ranch dressing or Garlic & Herb Buttermilk dressing
• 9 cups roughly chopped green leaf or romaine lettuce, divided
• 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 large poblano or green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 12 oz frozen corn, steamed and cooled
• 6 medium tomatoes, 5 chopped and 1 sliced into wedges for garnish
• 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 4 cups roasted chicken, roughly chopped
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 2 large hard-boiled eggs, cut into wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large trifle or glass bowl, layer the ingredients in the following order: ⅓ of the lettuce, ½ of the red pepper, ½ of the poblano pepper, ⅓ of the corn, ½ of the tomatoes, ½ of the red onion, 1 cup of cheese, ⅓ of the bacon, and ½ of the chicken. Drizzle with ½ cup of the prepared dressing.
2. Repeat the layering: ⅓ of the lettuce, ½ of the red pepper, ½ of the poblano pepper, ⅓ of the corn, ½ of the tomatoes, ½ of the red onion, 1 cup of cheese, ⅓ of the bacon, and ½ of the chicken. Drizzle with another ½ cup of the prepared dressing.
3. Top with the remaining ⅓ of the lettuce, ⅓ of the corn, ½ cup of shredded cheese, the remaining ⅓ of the bacon, and the sliced green onion. Drizzle with ½ cup of dressing around the edge.
4. Garnish with egg and tomato wedges on top.
5. Chill for 4 hours before serving. Serve with additional dressing on the side.

Tips for Success

• For the best presentation, use a clear glass bowl to showcase the beautiful layers.
• Chill the salad for the full 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld together.
• Cook the bacon until crispy to add a delightful crunch.

Additional Tips and Variations

• Try adding avocado slices for an extra creamy texture.
• Swap out the chicken for turkey or ham for a different flavor profile.
• For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the dressing.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This salad is packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, fiber from the vegetables, and healthy fats from the cheese and dressing. It’s a balanced and satisfying meal!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and add the dressing just before serving.

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, like Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Is there a vegetarian option?
You can easily make this salad vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon and adding chickpeas or black beans for protein.

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Layer Salad is not just a side dish; it’s an experience. Bursting with flavor and color, it’s a perfect addition to any meal or gathering. I invite you to try this recipe and share your experiences with friends and family. Enjoy!