Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad! This one is packed with crispy chicken, cranberries, cheese, sunflower seeds, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s easy to make and a huge crowd pleaser, making it the perfect side dish for summer barbecues or Thanksgiving gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This Broccoli Salad can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of savory chicken, sweet cranberries, and crunchy sunflower seeds creates a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
• Versatile Dish: It works beautifully as a side dish for any occasion—summer picnics, holiday dinners, or potlucks.
• Healthy Choice: Loaded with fresh broccoli and wholesome ingredients, this salad is not just tasty but also nutritious.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this salad ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to five days.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Broccoli Salad with Chicken successfully, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help you streamline the process and achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Chef’s knife
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Baking sheet
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping broccoli quick and easy. It ensures even cuts for consistent cooking.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps blend the dressing ingredients smoothly, creating a uniform flavor throughout the salad.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Broccoli Salad with Chicken:

For the Salad

• 10-11 strips cooked chicken
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds (salted)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)

For the Dressing

• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• Zest from 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons white grape juice vinegar
• 1/4 cup sugar
• 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by preparing your chicken. You can bake it in the oven or use a skillet. Cook until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Let it cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine:
1. 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR Mayonnaise
2. Zest from 1 lemon
3. 1 tablespoon lemon juice
4. 2 tablespoons white grape juice vinegar
5. 1/4 cup sugar
6. 1 & 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt
7. 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8. 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard
9. 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Whisk all these dressing ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Using a chef’s knife, chop your broccoli into small florets. If you prefer, you can also include chopped stems for added texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all chopped broccoli to the bowl with your dressing. Then mix in:
– 1 cup dried cranberries
– 1/3 cup roasted sunflower seeds
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Most of the cooked chicken, reserving some for garnishing if desired.

Step 5: Mix Well

Stir all ingredients together until they are evenly coated with dressing. This salad can be served immediately or allowed to chill in the fridge for about an hour before serving.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

If chilling, let it sit on the counter for about 20 minutes before serving for optimal flavor. Store any leftovers covered in the fridge; this salad will keep well for about five days!

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

Broccoli Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

Serve as a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a balanced meal. The salad’s crunch complements the tenderness of the meat nicely.

Use as a Lunch Bowl

• Add some quinoa or brown rice to make it heartier. This transforms your salad into a filling lunch option that’s easy to take on the go.

Garnish with Extra Ingredients

• Sprinkle additional sunflower seeds or cranberries on top for added texture and color. This makes for an eye-catching presentation.

Serve Chilled or Room Temperature

• Enjoy this salad either way! Serving it chilled can enhance the flavors, making it refreshing, especially on warm days.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Offer slices of crusty bread or rolls alongside the salad. This option provides a comforting side that complements the crunchy elements of the dish.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

To make your Broccoli Salad truly shine, follow these helpful tips for perfection.

• Choose Fresh Broccoli: Look for firm, vibrant green florets. Fresh broccoli enhances the salad’s taste and texture significantly.
• Customize Your Add-ins: Feel free to swap out ingredients like cheese or nuts based on your preferences. Personal touches create a unique version of this classic dish.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour helps all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Dressing Consistency: If your dressing is too thick, add a bit more lemon juice or vinegar until you reach your desired consistency. A well-balanced dressing is key to great flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

When planning your meal, consider these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Broccoli Salad.

1. Grilled Chicken Breast: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken adds protein while keeping meals light and satisfying.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: These provide a natural sweetness that nicely contrasts with the tangy salad flavors.
3. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious grain option that adds texture and pairs well with both salads and proteins.
4. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a comforting element that complements the fresh crunch of broccoli.
5. Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the richness of other dishes while adding color to your plate.
6. Coleslaw: This creamy option brings another layer of crunch and pairs well with the main course for variety.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe turns out perfectly, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Boldly skip the dressing prep – Mixing the dressing ingredients properly is key. It ensures all flavors meld together for a delicious finish.
• Boldly overlook the broccoli size – Cutting the broccoli into uniform, small florets ensures even distribution of flavors and easier eating.
• Boldly forget to chill – Allowing the salad to chill for at least 20 minutes enhances the flavor. Serving it too soon can lead to a bland experience.
• Boldly ignore ingredient freshness – Using fresh ingredients like cranberries and cheese elevates the salad. Stale or expired items can ruin the taste.
• Boldly skimp on toppings – Saving some Turkey bacon and other toppings for garnish adds visual appeal and extra crunch. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh.
• The salad stays good for about 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• It’s not recommended to freeze this salad as it contains ingredients that don’t thaw well, like broccoli and mayonnaise.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. Ensure it’s covered to prevent drying out.
• Microwave – Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring between each until warmed through. Be cautious not to overheat!
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe.

Can I make a vegetarian version of Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe?

Yes! Simply omit the Turkey bacon and add more sunflower seeds or avocado for extra texture.

How long does Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe last?

This salad will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator if stored properly in an airtight container.

What can I substitute for Turkey bacon in Broccoli Salad with Bacon Recipe?

Consider using crispy chicken or turkey bacon as a tasty alternative that maintains a similar crunch.

Can I use different nuts or seeds in my salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to use walnuts, pecans, or pumpkin seeds according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with Turkey Bacon Recipe is a delightful side dish perfect for any gathering. Its crunchy textures and tangy dressing make it appealing and versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite ingredients such as nuts or different cheeses. Enjoy making this refreshing salad!