Save A fresh, hearty salad inspired by the flavors of the famous Costco Chicken Bake, featuring roasted chicken, crisp greens, smoky bacon, cheese, and a creamy Caesar-inspired dressing.
This salad quickly became a family favorite because it’s easy to make and full of comforting flavors that remind us of the original Chicken Bake.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Bacon: 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded, 4 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- Greens & Vegetables: 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped, 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved, 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- Cheeses & Bread: 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded, 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated, 1 cup croutons
- Creamy Caesar-Style Dressing: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup sour cream, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 garlic clove minced, 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce, Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper until smooth. Set aside or chill.
- Combine salad base:
- In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes and red onion.
- Add proteins and cheese:
- Add the diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, mozzarella and grated Parmesan to the salad.
- Toss salad:
- Drizzle with the creamy Caesar-style dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Add croutons:
- Top with croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Save We often gather around this salad on busy weeknights, sharing stories and enjoying its satisfying taste that feels like a warm hug.
Variations
Add sliced black olives or roasted corn for extra texture and taste variations that keep this salad exciting.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this salad with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for a perfect meal combination.
Storage Tips
Store the dressing separately to keep the salad fresh. Croutons should be added right before serving to retain their crunch.
Save This salad is a perfect blend of convenience and flavor, ready to brighten any meal effortlessly.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of chicken is best for this salad bowl?
Rotisserie chicken or leftover roasted chicken work best for tender, flavorful pieces that blend well with the other ingredients.
- → Can I substitute the bacon in this dish?
Yes, turkey bacon makes a lighter alternative while still adding a smoky flavor to the salad.
- → How is the creamy dressing prepared?
The dressing is made by whisking together mayonnaise, sour cream, Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- → Are croutons necessary for the salad?
Croutons add a crunchy texture that complements the soft and creamy ingredients, but you can omit or substitute them if desired.
- → What are good variations to try with this salad?
Adding sliced black olives or roasted corn can bring extra flavor and variety to the bowl.
- → What wine pairs well with this salad?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the fresh and creamy elements beautifully.