Savory Chicken Salad with a Spicy Twist

This delightful salad combines a flavorful mix of ingredients to create a harmonious blend of tastes and textures. Featuring smoked chicken gyros or roasted chicken breast, the salad is packed with protein and flavor. Accompanied by sautéed mushrooms and crispy bacon, the dish boasts a savory richness that is perfectly balanced by the freshness of cherry tomatoes and leafy greens. The vibrant colors and varied ingredients make this salad not only delicious but also visually appealing. A drizzle of a tangy balsamic and olive oil dressing adds depth and enhances the overall taste. With the inclusion of boiled eggs, this salad becomes a hearty and satisfying meal. The spiciness from chili or tomato sauce lends an exciting kick to every bite. Ideal for a quick lunch or light dinner, this salad is both nutritious and versatile. Enjoy it as it is or customize it with your favorite greens and garnishes.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 smoked chicken gyros or roasted chicken breast
200g mushrooms
150g bacon
2 boiled eggs
100g cherry tomatoes
1 bunch of salad leaves
1 bunch of herbs

Sauce:

2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
4 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp water
2 tbsp chili or tomato sauce

Spices:

1 pinch of salt
1 pinch of pepper

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Begin by slicing the smoked chicken gyros or roasted chicken breast into thin strips and set aside.
Rinse the mushrooms thoroughly under cool water and pat them dry.
Cut the mushrooms into quarters to ensure even cooking.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy, then add the mushroom quarters and sauté until golden brown.
While the mushrooms and bacon are cooking, rinse the salad leaves or spinach thoroughly and arrange them on a serving platter.
Hard boil the eggs, then peel and segment them into wedges.
Slice the cherry tomatoes in half and distribute them evenly over the bed of salad leaves.
Once the mushrooms and bacon are done, let them cool slightly, then layer them over the salad.
Add the sliced chicken, ensuring it is uniformly spread across the platter.
Decorate with boiled egg wedges and sprinkle freshly chopped herbs on top for added flavor and color.
For the dressing, mix balsamic vinegar, olive oil, water, chili or tomato sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper in a small bowl or shaker.
Whisk or shake well to combine all the ingredients ensuring a smooth dressing.
Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad, making sure it is coated generously.
Let the flavors meld for a few minutes before serving to allow the dressing to infuse into the ingredients.
Serve immediately while the ingredients are fresh and vibrant.
Encourage diners to mix the salad thoroughly before eating for an even distribution of flavors.
Garnish with additional herbs if desired for both an aromatic and visual appeal.
Provide extra chili or tomato sauce on the side for those who prefer additional spice.
Accompany the dish with a crusty bread or crispbread for texture contrast.
Finally, remind everyone to enjoy every flavorful, nutritious bite!

Tips

Substitution for Salad Leaves: Use spinach if you prefer a different texture and flavor.
Vegan Variation: Replace chicken and bacon with grilled tofu or tempeh.
Mild Flavor: Substitute chili sauce with honey mustard for a sweeter tang.

Nutritions

Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 26g
Fats: 35g
Carbohydrates: 10g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and bacon, and add grilled halloumi or chickpeas for protein.
Keto-Friendly: Increase the amount of bacon and avocado for higher fat content and omit the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty bread or a grain like quinoa for a more filling meal.
Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon wedges for a refreshing beverage option.

Best Places

The Salad Bar - Renowned for its fresh and vibrant salads customized to your liking. Location: 45 Fresh St, London, UK.
Greens & Proteins - An urban eatery specializing in health-focused fare with a twist. Location: 123 Main Ave, Toronto, Canada.
Leafy Place - Known for its organic produce and creative salad combinations. Location: 78 Eco Rd, Sydney, Australia.
Veggie Delights - Offers gourmet salads with locally sourced ingredients. Location: 22 Healthy Ln, San Francisco, USA.
Nature's Feast - Celebrated for its farm-to-table experience with a focus on salads. Location: 50 Garden St, Dublin, Ireland.
Salad Savvy - Famed for its vibrant, globally-inspired salad dishes. Location: 60 Spice Ave, Cape Town, South Africa.
Urban Greens - A popular spot for freshly made salads and wraps. Location: 37 Green Rd, Berlin, Germany.
Saladicious - Offers a wide variety of salads with a Mediterranean flair. Location: 11 Olive Way, Rome, Italy.
Herb & Leaf - Known for innovative salads with a distinctive Asian influence. Location: 44 Zen St, Tokyo, Japan.
Bountiful Bowls - Specializes in hearty and nutritious salad bowls. Location: 57 Vitality Ave, Auckland, New Zealand.