Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. This vibrant salad combines succulent chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, all enhanced with fragrant rosemary. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or preparing a healthy meal for your family, this recipe brings together fresh ingredients and rich flavors that everyone will love. Enjoy the ease of preparation while indulging in a burst of taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of only 35 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad in no time.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of rosemary and crispy turkey bacon adds an incredible depth of flavor to the fresh ingredients.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a light lunch or dinner, this salad suits various occasions from picnics to dinner parties.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with greens, healthy fats from avocado, and lean protein from chicken, it’s a wholesome choice.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap in different proteins to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on this delightful Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation easy and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the turkey bacon and chicken evenly while rendering the fat for flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts for slicing chicken and vegetables without bruising them.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing salad ingredients together to ensure even distribution of flavors.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing the vinaigrette thoroughly so that all flavors blend seamlessly.

Ingredients

For the Salad

• 4 slices thick-cut Turkey Bacon
• 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
• 6 cups spring greens and/or butter lettuce
• 1 bunch watercress
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large avocado, thinly sliced

For the Vinaigrette

• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary
• Salt and pepper

How to Make Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat.
2. Add the turkey bacon slices to the skillet.
3. Cook until crispy and the fat is rendered.
4. Remove the turkey bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Cover them with minced rosemary.
3. In the same skillet used for bacon (maintaining some rendered fat), increase heat to medium-high.
4. Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
5. Cook until golden brown and crisp on both sides (about 5-6 minutes per side).
6. Remove from heat once cooked through and let sit before slicing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine spring greens, watercress, and halved cherry tomatoes.
2. Toss gently until mixed well.
3. Top with sliced chicken breasts, crumbled turkey bacon pieces, and thinly sliced avocado.
4. Drizzle with prepared rosemary vinaigrette before serving.

Enjoy your fresh Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad!

How to Serve Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

This vibrant Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying a light lunch or hosting a dinner party, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Freshly Grilled Bread

• Pair this salad with slices of freshly grilled bread. The warm crust adds a delightful texture that complements the salad’s freshness.

Chilled White Wine or Sparkling Water

• Serve the salad alongside a glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon. This refreshing drink balances the richness of the avocado and turkey bacon.

Mixed Fruit Platter

• A colorful mixed fruit platter can be a delightful addition. Seasonal fruits like berries, oranges, and apples provide a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the salad.

Cheese Board

• Consider offering a cheese board with assorted cheeses and nuts. The creamy cheeses will harmonize beautifully with the rosemary chicken and turkey bacon.

Quinoa Bowl

• A side of quinoa mixed with herbs and lemon juice can add another layer of flavor. This gluten-free option will keep you full longer while complementing the main dish.

Dessert Option

• End your meal on a sweet note with a light dessert, such as sorbet or fruit salad. These options are refreshing and won’t overshadow the main dish.

How to Perfect Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

To ensure your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh greens, ripe avocados, and quality turkey bacon make all the difference in flavor.
• Cook Chicken Evenly: Ensure that your chicken is cooked evenly by allowing it to rest before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and rosemary according to your preference for balanced flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prepare components like vinaigrette and chop veggies in advance for quick assembly when you’re ready to serve.
• Experiment with Greens: Don’t hesitate to mix different types of greens for added texture and flavor depth in your salad.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste, serve the salad right after assembling it. This keeps everything fresh and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent choices:

1. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these potatoes add hearty satisfaction alongside your salad.
2. Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar offers a refreshing crunch that complements the rich ingredients of your main dish.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers bring smoky flavors that pair well with rosemary chicken.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a deliciously sweet contrast while being healthier than traditional fries.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a nice crunch that balances out the creaminess of avocado.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brings sweetness to your plate; it’s fun to eat too!
7. Hummus Platter: Serve hummus with pita chips and fresh veggies for dipping; this adds an extra layer of flavor without overpowering your salad.
8. Fruit Smoothie: A light fruit smoothie can be served as a refreshing beverage side that ties together all elements of your meal beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad, be mindful of some common pitfalls.

• Bold seasoning errors: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to blandness. Ensure you season it well with salt, pepper, and rosemary to enhance the flavor.
• Bold cooking chicken incorrectly: Overcooking chicken can dry it out. Cook until golden and crisp on both sides, about 5 to 6 minutes per side.
• Bold using wilted greens: Using wilted or old greens can ruin your salad’s texture. Always use fresh spring greens or butter lettuce for the best results.
• Bold poorly slicing avocado: Rushing while slicing avocado can lead to mushy pieces. Take your time for neat slices that improve presentation.
• Bold skipping the vinaigrette: A salad without dressing lacks flavor. Drizzle the rosemary vinaigrette generously for a delicious finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the vinaigrette separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the avocado and greens, which may become mushy upon thawing.

Reheating Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish; heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat in a skillet for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing the Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad.

Can I substitute other meats in this salad?

You can use grilled beef or lamb instead of turkey bacon for a different flavor profile.

How do I make the rosemary vinaigrette?

Combine olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, minced rosemary, salt, and pepper in a jar. Shake well before drizzling over the salad.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or radishes for extra crunch and color.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep all components separately and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

Why is my avocado browning quickly?

To prevent browning, squeeze some lemon juice over the sliced avocado before adding it to the salad.

Final Thoughts

The Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that make it perfect for lunch or dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize with different vegetables or dressings based on your preference. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that brings together succulent chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, all infused with aromatic rosemary. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome choice packed with nutrients. With its quick preparation time and customizable ingredients, it’s ideal for casual gatherings or a healthy family meal. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors while keeping your diet in check with this delectable recipe.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon
• 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary
• 6 cups spring greens and/or butter lettuce
• 1 bunch watercress
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large avocado, thinly sliced
• 2 teaspoons dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red apple vinegar
• 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary

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Instructions

1. Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium-low heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
2. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and minced rosemary. In the same skillet, cook over medium-high heat until golden brown (about 5-6 minutes per side). Let rest before slicing.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine spring greens, watercress, and halved cherry tomatoes. Toss gently.
4. Top with sliced chicken, crumbled turkey bacon, and avocado slices. Drizzle with rosemary vinaigrette before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (300g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 24g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 70mg