Preparing the Honey Mustard Dressing/Marinade:
- Whisk together the honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
- Reserve half of this mixture to use as a dressing for the salad. The remaining half will be used to marinate the chicken.
Marinating and Cooking the Chicken:
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a sealable bag or container and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the chicken is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Cook the chicken: Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (discard any leftover marinade) and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and no longer pink in the middle. Let it rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
Assembling the Salad:
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, red onion, and cucumber.
- Add the chicken and bacon: Arrange the sliced chicken and chopped bacon over the greens.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with crumbled cheese and toasted nuts if using. These elements add a delightful contrast in textures and flavors, enhancing the overall richness of the salad.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the reserved honey mustard dressing over the salad just before serving. Toss lightly to ensure all the ingredients are beautifully coated.
Serving Suggestions:
This Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Bacon is best served fresh. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic toast, making for a complete and satisfying meal. For a refreshing beverage pairing, consider a crisp white wine or a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon.
Tips for Success:
- Marinating Time: For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate as long as possible within the recommended time frame.
- Customization: Feel free to customize the salad with additional veggies or swap out the cheese and nuts based on your preferences or dietary needs.
- Dressing: If you prefer a creamier dressing, you can add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the honey mustard dressing.
The Honey Mustard Chicken Salad with Bacon stands as a testament to the joy of eating well, blending the simplicity of fresh ingredients with the depth of flavors that cooking with passion brings. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, enjoy a delicious family meal, or simply indulge in the pleasures of a well-crafted salad, this recipe is sure to fulfill your culinary desires.