Description
This Bacon Ranch Chicken Salad is packed with flavor, combining juicy shredded chicken, crispy bacon, crunchy cucumbers, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy homemade ranch dressing. Inspired by the famous Wingstop Ranch, the dressing brings a tangy, herb-packed richness that complements the salad perfectly. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s great for meal prep, lunch, or a quick dinner. If you love bacon and ranch, this salad is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients
- Shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great)
- Homemade ranch dressing (recipe below)
- Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)
- Crispy bacon (crumbled)
- Cucumbers (peeled and diced)
- ayonnaise
- Sour cream
- Buttermilk
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Dried dill
- Fresh parsley (optional)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing the homemade ranch dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream, and buttermilk. Add garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper, and whisk until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and diced cucumbers.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve immediately, or refrigerate for an hour to let the flavors meld together.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat mayo or a mayo alternative.
- If you prefer more crunch, add some chopped celery or nuts like walnuts or almonds.
- This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None (just crispy bacon)
- Category: Salad, Main Dish
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American