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Italian Grinder Chicken Salad

Italian Grinder Chicken Salad


  • Author: Michael
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

The Italian Grinder Chicken Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish combining smoky turkey bacon, tender cooked chicken breast, fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, and plant-based cheese. Tossed with a zesty dressing made from apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), Italian herbs (natural), and a natural gelling agent, this salad offers a refreshing balance of bold flavors and textures. Quick to prepare and customizable, it is perfect for lunch, light dinner, or meal prep.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 4 slices smoked turkey bacon
  • 2 cooked chicken breasts, shredded or chopped

Vegetables and Greens

  • 4 cups mixed greens, washed and dried
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
  • 1 cup cucumber slices
  • 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onions
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

Cheese and Flavorings

  • 1/2 cup plant-based cheese, shredded or crumbled
  • 1 tsp Italian herbs (natural)
  • 1 tbsp vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)

Dressing

  • 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar (natural)
  • 4 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp natural gelling agent

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken and Turkey Bacon: Cook the chicken breasts thoroughly until juicy and easy to shred or chop. Crisp the smoked turkey bacon in a pan or oven until golden and crunchy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Chop and Mix Fresh Vegetables: Wash and dry mixed greens. Slice cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions. Combine all in a large bowl with fresh basil leaves for aroma.
  3. Create the Dressing: In a bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar (natural), olive oil, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), Italian herbs (natural), and the natural gelling agent until well combined.
  4. Toss Salad and Add Cheese: Add cooked chicken and turkey bacon to the bowl with vegetables, pour the dressing over, and toss until everything is evenly coated. Sprinkle plant-based cheese on top for a creamy finish.
  5. Final Touches: Gently toss the salad once more and serve immediately or chill slightly to allow flavors to meld.

Notes

  • Use fresh vegetables and herbs to maximize flavor.
  • Add dressing gradually to prevent sogginess and keep crisp textures.
  • Prepare proteins (chicken and bacon) ahead of time to save time.
  • Chill the salad before serving to enhance flavor blending.
  • Taste dressing before mixing; add more apple cider vinegar (natural) if needed for brightness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 65mg

Keywords: Italian Grinder Chicken Salad, smoky turkey bacon salad, plant-based cheese salad, quick chicken salad, healthy lunch salad