Pin 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.
I enjoy making this salad when I want something quick yet satisfying that reminds me of a favorite comfort food.
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 vegetables:
- 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.
- Dress the 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.
Pin My family loves gathering around this salad on busy weeknights; it feels both indulgent and wholesome.
Variations
Add sliced black olives or roasted corn for a tasty twist on the classic salad.
Pairings
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc.
Storage
Store leftover salad and dressing separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Pin This salad is a quick, flavorful meal perfect for both family dinners and meal prep.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken is best for this salad bowl?
Roasted or rotisserie chicken works best as it adds a smoky and tender texture that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
- → Can I substitute turkey bacon in this salad?
Yes, turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter option while maintaining the smoky flavor.
- → How can I make the dressing creamier?
Whisk the mayonnaise and sour cream thoroughly with the Parmesan and lemon juice, adjusting amounts for a smoother consistency.
- → What cheeses are included in this salad?
This bowl includes shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, adding both mild and sharp flavors.
- → When should croutons be added for best texture?
Add croutons just before serving to ensure they remain crisp and crunchy.
- → Are there any suggested variations for this salad?
You can enhance the salad by adding sliced black olives or roasted corn for extra flavor and texture.