This Crispy Chicken Salad is a delightful mixture of textures and flavors that everyone will love. With crunchy chicken, creamy avocado, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, this salad is perfect for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or looking for a quick meal, this recipe shines in any occasion. Its versatility makes it a favorite for anyone seeking a hearty yet healthy dish.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite combines crispy chicken and savory bacon with fresh vegetables for an explosion of taste.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this salad in about an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Versatile Meal: This crispy chicken salad can be served as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite sides, making it suitable for any meal.
Family-Friendly: Its delicious blend of flavors is sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your household.
Nutritious Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this salad offers a balanced meal option without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start crafting your crispy chicken salad, gather the necessary tools to streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowls
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Whisk
Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures your chicken gets perfectly crispy without sticking.
Mixing bowls: These are essential for combining ingredients and prepping the dressing smoothly.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife simplifies cutting vegetables and chicken into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Ingredients

This crispy chicken salad is loaded with delicious crispy chicken, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, cheese, onion, and three types of lettuce. A hearty and delicious salad recipe the whole family will enjoy.

For the Chicken

2 chicken breasts, (boneless, skinless, cut into bite size chunks)
1 cup all purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup tempura batter mix
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoon Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1-2 cups vegetable oil

For the Salad

3 avocados, (diced)
8 strips Applewood bacon, (cooked until crispy)
1 cup grape tomatoes, (sliced in half)
½ cup red onion, (diced small)
1-2 cup cheddar cheese, (shredded)
3 cups iceberg lettuce, (cut into bite size pieces)
3 cups Romaine lettuce, (cut into bite size pieces)
3 cups leafy green lettuce, (cut into bite size pieces)

For the Dressing

¼ cup Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup lemon juice
2 tablespoon honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

How to Make Crispy Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

To start off your Crispy Chicken Salad, follow these instructions:
1. In one bowl, combine flour with garlic powder, Slap Ya Mama® seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
2. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk and egg.
3. In a third bowl, place panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dip each piece of chicken first into the flour mixture, then the buttermilk mixture, followed by coating it with panko breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook that flavorful chicken:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Carefully add coated chicken chunks to the hot oil.
3. Fry until golden brown and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. Once done, transfer them to paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Bring everything together for your tasty salad:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine iceberg lettuce, Romaine lettuce, leafy green lettuce, diced avocados, sliced tomatoes, diced onion, cooked bacon pieces, and shredded cheese.
2. Add the cooked crispy chicken on top.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

Create a zesty dressing to elevate your salad:
1. In a small bowl or jar, mix Dijon mustard or yellow mustard with olive oil, lemon juice, honey, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Whisk or shake well until combined.

Step 5: Serve It Up!

Finish off your crispy chicken salad:
1. Drizzle dressing over assembled ingredients just before serving.
2. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crispy Chicken Salad

Crispy chicken salad is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual lunch or a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance the overall experience.

On a Bed of Greens

Use a mix of iceberg, romaine, and leafy green lettuce to create a refreshing base.
Add extra avocado and cheese on top for added flavor and texture.

As a Wrap

Fill whole wheat or spinach wraps with crispy chicken salad for a portable meal.
Pair it with your favorite sauce or dressing for dipping.

In a Bowl

Serve the salad in individual bowls for a personal touch.
Top each bowl with additional bacon and tomatoes for visual appeal.

With Toasted Bread

Accompany the salad with slices of toasted sourdough or ciabatta bread.
You can spread garlic butter on the bread for extra flavor.

As an Appetizer

Spoon smaller portions into mini cups or lettuce leaves for bite-sized appetizers.
Drizzle with honey mustard dressing for added taste.

How to Perfect Crispy Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect crispy chicken salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your salad is both delicious and visually appealing.

Choose fresh ingredients: Always use fresh vegetables, as they provide better flavor and nutrition.
Cook chicken perfectly: Ensure your chicken is cooked until golden brown and crispy for the best texture.
Make your own dressing: A homemade honey mustard dressing enhances the flavor significantly compared to store-bought options.
Let it chill: Allowing the salad to sit in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes lets flavors meld together beautifully.
Add crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds, like sunflower seeds, for an additional layer of crunchiness.
Garnish wisely: Finish off with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Crispy Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with crispy chicken salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider:

Garlic Bread – A classic favorite that complements salads well; simply toast slices of bread with garlic butter.
Fruit Salad – A refreshing side that balances the savory elements of the salad; use seasonal fruits for variety.
Coleslaw – Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and tang; consider adding apples or pineapple for sweetness.
Grilled Vegetables – Seasoned grilled veggies make a healthy addition; zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus work well.
Quinoa Salad – A protein-packed option that can add substance; mix quinoa with black beans, corn, and lime juice.
Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges are always a hit; season them with herbs and spices before baking.
Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes enriched with cheese make a hearty side dish that pairs nicely with salads.
Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness; serve it with butter and seasoning for extra flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a crispy chicken salad, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

Skipping the marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Use buttermilk and spices for better taste.
Using soggy veggies: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin the salad’s freshness. Always opt for crisp, fresh produce.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Cook until just golden brown and juicy for perfect texture.
Inconsistent sizes: Cutting ingredients into uneven sizes can affect presentation and eating experience. Aim for uniform bite-sized pieces.
Forgetting about seasoning: Neglecting to season your salad can result in dull flavors. Season each component, especially the chicken.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep dressing separate to maintain crispness.

Freezing Crispy Chicken Salad

It’s best to freeze only the cooked chicken, as vegetables may not thaw well.
Store chicken in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Crispy Chicken Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring between intervals until warm.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Crispy Chicken Salad?

Crispy chicken salad combines tender, crunchy chicken with fresh vegetables and toppings like cheese and bacon. It’s hearty and satisfying.

Can I customize my Crispy Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients like different proteins, nuts, or seasonal veggies to suit your taste.

How can I make this salad healthier?

To create a healthier version of crispy chicken salad, consider using grilled chicken instead of fried and choose lighter dressings.

What dressing goes well with Crispy Chicken Salad?

A honey mustard dressing complements crispy chicken salad beautifully, adding sweetness and tanginess that enhance the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This crispy chicken salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. With options for customization, you can easily adapt it to fit your preferences. Give it a try; it’s sure to be a family favorite!

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Crispy Chicken Salad

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Author: Cara
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crispy Chicken Salad is a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will delight your taste buds. This hearty dish features perfectly fried chicken, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and fresh vegetables, making it ideal for lunch or dinner. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or need a quick meal, this salad shines in versatility and taste. It’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and healthy fats, ensuring a balanced meal without compromising on flavor. Enjoy this scrumptious recipe as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

2 chicken breasts
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup buttermilk
1 large egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup tempura batter mix
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons Slap Ya Mama® seasoning
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1–2 cups vegetable oil
3 avocados, diced
8 strips Applewood bacon, cooked until crispy
1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced in half
½ cup red onion, diced small
1–2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
3 cups iceberg lettuce, cut into bite size pieces
3 cups Romaine lettuce, cut into bite size pieces
3 cups leafy green lettuce, cut into bite size pieces
¼ cup Dijon mustard or yellow mustard
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup lemon juice
2 tablespoons honey
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

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Instructions

Prepare the chicken by coating pieces in seasoned flour, dipping in buttermilk and egg, then rolling in panko breadcrumbs.
Fry the coated chicken in heated oil until golden brown and cooked through.
In a large bowl, mix together lettuce, diced avocados, sliced tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
Top the salad with the crispy chicken.
Whisk together dressing ingredients and drizzle over the salad before serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Frying
Cuisine: American