Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

This Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch is a delightful blend of flavors that makes any meal feel special. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad features juicy grilled chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh cherry tomatoes, and creamy avocado. The homemade peppercorn ranch dressing elevates the dish, ensuring it’s both healthy and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet meal at home, this salad is a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with flavor from the grilled chicken and savory turkey bacon.
• Healthy Dressing: The peppercorn ranch dressing is dairy-free and packed with wholesome fats.
• Quick Preparation: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Kid Approved: Even picky eaters will love the taste of this vibrant salad.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or a side, adapting to any occasion.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools will make your cooking experience easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or cast iron skillet
• Blender or immersion blender
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or cast iron skillet: These provide even cooking for your chicken, giving it that perfect char.
• Blender or immersion blender: Essential for creating a smooth and creamy peppercorn ranch dressing quickly.
• Cutting board & sharp knife: Makes slicing ingredients easy and safe, ensuring precision in your prep work.

Ingredients

This grilled chicken BLT salad includes all your favorites – crispy turkey bacon, perfectly seasoned grilled chicken, cherry tomatoes, and avocado! It’s topped with a healthy paleo & Whole30 friendly peppercorn ranch that might just become your new favorite salad dressing! Dairy-free, gluten-free, even kid approved!

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup homemade mayo (or purchase Paleo friendly mayo)
• 1/4 cup coconut milk (blended (water and cream))
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 3 drops hot sauce (about 1/8 tsp adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 2 scallions (thinly sliced)
• 1 tsp ground tricolor peppercorns

For the Salad

• 1-1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to even thickness)
• 1 medium avocado
• 8 slices turkey bacon (sugar-free for Whole30, cooked until crisp, drained, and crumbled)*
• reserved turkey bacon fat to brush chicken and grill
• sea salt (ground peppercorn and onion powder to sprinkle on chicken)
• 1 5 oz container salad greens (or the equivalent of your favorite greens)
• 1 small container cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
• peppercorn ranch dressing (as much as desired)

How to Make Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by blending all the dressing ingredients together using either an immersion blender or standard blender. Once smooth, set aside or chill until ready to use.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Cook the turkey bacon until crispy. Set aside but reserve some of the turkey bacon fat for brushing on the chicken before grilling.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Generously brush both sides of the chicken breasts with reserved turkey bacon fat. Sprinkle with sea salt, ground peppercorn, and onion powder. Grill on medium heat until fully cooked through, flipping once. Remove from grill and cover loosely with aluminum foil.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl or platter, start with a base of salad greens. Add in halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled crispy turkey bacon. Slice open the avocado thinly and arrange it over the top.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Thinly slice the grilled chicken and lay it over your beautiful salad. Drizzle generously with your homemade peppercorn ranch dressing before serving. Enjoy! Store any leftover dressing in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

This recipe serves approximately 4 to 6 people, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

Serving your Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch is all about presentation and pairing. This salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough to complement various occasions. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

For a Family Dinner

• Arrange the salad in a large bowl for sharing, allowing everyone to serve themselves.
• Add extra toppings like nuts or seeds for a delightful crunch.

As a Light Lunch

• Serve in individual bowls for a quick, healthy lunch option.
• Pair with a slice of fruit, such as watermelon or cantaloupe, for a refreshing touch.

Meal Prep Option

• Divide the salad into meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

For a Picnic

• Pack the salad in mason jars for a portable and stylish option.
• Include whole grain crackers or veggie sticks on the side for added texture.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch can elevate your cooking game. These tips will help you create an unforgettable dish every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh greens and ripe tomatoes enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Marinate the chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate in spices beforehand adds depth to its taste.
• Customize toppings: Experiment with different vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers to fit your preference.
• Adjust dressing consistency: If you prefer creamier dressing, blend in more coconut milk until desired thickness is achieved.
• Grill with precision: Ensure even grilling by pounding chicken breasts to an even thickness before cooking.
• Serve chilled: Let the salad chill in the fridge for 15 minutes before serving for optimal flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

Pairing side dishes with your Grilled Chicken BLT Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options that complement the flavors of the salad beautifully.

1. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Toss cubed sweet potatoes with olive oil and seasoning, then roast until tender for a sweet and savory contrast.
2. Garlic Green Beans: Sauté fresh green beans with minced garlic and lemon juice for a simple yet flavorful side.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: Cook quinoa and mix it with herbs, nuts, and dried fruits for added texture and nutrition.
4. Cucumber Tomato Salad: Mix diced cucumbers and tomatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs for a refreshing side dish.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralize zucchini and toss it lightly in olive oil; serve raw or sautéed as a low-carb option.
6. Cauliflower Rice: Pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor; sauté briefly until tender as a grain-free alternative.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Creating the perfect Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch can be simple if you avoid common pitfalls.

• Not preparing the dressing in advance: This mistake can lead to a rushed meal. Make the peppercorn ranch ahead of time for better flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F for juicy results.
• Using non-paleo ingredients: Watch out for hidden ingredients in store-bought items like mayonnaise or bacon. Always check labels or opt for homemade versions.
• Neglecting seasoning: Skipping salt and spices can make your salad bland. Season each layer, especially the chicken, to enhance flavors.
• Cutting vegetables too early: Slicing veggies in advance can result in sogginess. Cut them just before serving to maintain freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-5 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as textures may change upon thawing.
• If necessary, freeze only the grilled chicken and reheat separately.

Reheating Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of water or broth, and reheat the chicken until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making the Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or beef for the grilled chicken if desired.

How do I make this salad vegetarian?

Swap out the grilled chicken for grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option.

What can I use instead of Turkey bacon?

Consider using crispy turkey jerky or leave it out entirely if preferred.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

This salad stays fresh for 3-5 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

The Grilled Chicken BLT Salad with Peppercorn Ranch is a delightful meal that combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors. It’s versatile enough to customize based on your preferences—add more veggies or switch up proteins as you see fit! Give it a try and enjoy a healthy yet satisfying dish that everyone will love!