Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

Everyone needs a recipe for the best Broccoli Salad! This one is stuffed with chicken, cranberry, cheese, sunflower seeds, and tangy homemade dressing. It is easy to make and is a huge crowd pleaser. The perfect side dish to bring to your summer barbecue or even to serve at Thanksgiving!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This Broccoli Salad can be prepared in under 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavorful Combinations – With the sweetness of cranberries, crunch from sunflower seeds, and creaminess from cheese, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Side Dish – Great for picnics, potlucks, or holiday dinners; this salad suits any occasion wonderfully.
• Customizable Ingredients – You can easily adjust ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly – Prepare it in advance to save time on the day of your event; it tastes great chilled or at room temperature.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Chef’s knife – Essential for chopping broccoli and other vegetables quickly and efficiently.
• Large mixing bowl – Provides ample space for mixing all the ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk – Ideal for combining dressing ingredients smoothly without clumps.

Ingredients

• 10-11 strips chicken (cooked)
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5-6 cups)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• 1 lemon zest
• 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 the chicken. Bake or pan-fry until cooked through. Set aside to cool. Once cool, chop into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

While the chicken cooks, mix together the dressing. In a large bowl:
* Add 1 and 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR Mayonnaise.
* Grate in the zest from 1 lemon.
* Squeeze in 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
* Mix in 2 tablespoons white grape juice vinegar.
* Add 1/4 cup sugar along with 1 and 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt.
* Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon dry mustard, and 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Whisk all dressing ingredients together until smooth.

Step 3: Chop the Broccoli

Use a chef’s knife to chop your broccoli into small florets. If desired, include chopped stems for added texture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add all chopped broccoli into the large bowl with the dressing. Then add:
* 1 cup dried cranberries,
* 1/3 cup sunflower seeds,
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese,
* Most of the cooked chicken pieces (reserve some for topping).

Stir everything together until well coated.

Step 5: Serve

This salad can be served right away at room temperature or chilled. If chilling first, let it sit out for about 20 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Store Leftovers

Store any leftovers covered in the fridge. This Broccoli Salad will keep well for about five days.

How to Serve Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

This Broccoli Salad is a versatile dish that can fit perfectly into many occasions. Whether it’s for a family gathering or a casual picnic, here are some great ways to serve it.

As a Side Dish

• Pair it with grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside barbecued meats to complement the smoky flavors.

At Potlucks

• Bring this salad to potlucks as it is always a crowd favorite.
• Offer it in a large bowl with extra turkey bacon on top for added appeal.

For Summer Gatherings

• Chilling the salad makes it refreshing during hot days.
• Serve it on a buffet table with other summer favorites like corn salad and coleslaw.

At Holiday Dinners

• This salad pairs well with roasted meats during holiday meals.
• Present it in festive serving dishes to elevate your table setting.

How to Perfect Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

To make sure your Broccoli Salad reaches its full potential, here are some tips to consider.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh broccoli and crisp vegetables enhance the flavor and texture of the salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dressing before adding all of it to the salad. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill for at least an hour helps blend the flavors beautifully.
• Customize Add-Ins: Feel free to add nuts or seeds for extra crunch, like walnuts or pumpkin seeds.
• Fresh Herbs: Adding herbs like parsley or dill can brighten up the flavors of your salad.

Best Side Dishes for Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

Looking for sides that will complement your Broccoli Salad? Here are some fantastic options:

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken pieces in spices and grill them for delicious additions.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light, fluffy side made with herbs and vegetables that pairs well with salads.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and contrast, balancing out the richness of the salad.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory flavors in your salad.
5. Vegetable Platter: An assortment of fresh veggies served with hummus makes for a healthy and colorful option.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds a sweet touch that goes wonderfully alongside your broccoli dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the dressing prep: Not preparing the dressing in advance can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always mix your dressing first to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Using overcooked broccoli: Overcooked broccoli can turn mushy and lose its vibrant color. Steam or blanch it just until tender, then shock it in ice water to keep that bright green hue.
• Not letting the salad chill: Serving the salad immediately might not allow flavors to meld properly. Chill the broccoli salad for at least 20 minutes before serving for a tastier dish.
• Ignoring ingredient ratios: Using too much of any ingredient, especially the dressing, can overpower other flavors. Stick closely to the measurements for balance.
• Neglecting leftovers storage: Failing to store leftovers properly can spoil your salad quickly. Keep it covered in the fridge and consume within five days for best quality.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover broccoli salad in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to five days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

• This salad is not ideal for freezing due to its texture and ingredients.
• Freezing may cause vegetables to become soggy upon thawing.

Reheating Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion of the salad into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe.

Can I use turkey instead of turkey bacon?

Yes! Turkey bacon or even grilled chicken can be great alternatives that still provide delicious flavor without using pork products.

How do I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of this broccoli salad, simply omit turkey bacon and cheese. Use plant-based mayonnaise and add more nuts or seeds for protein.

What can I add for extra crunch?

Consider adding diced apples, chopped bell peppers, or more sunflower seeds for additional crunch and flavor variation.

Can I prepare this salad a day ahead?

Absolutely! Preparing your Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe a day ahead enhances its flavor as it sits, allowing all ingredients to blend beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli Salad with turkey Bacon Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes a fantastic side dish for any occasion—from barbecues to holiday dinners. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or additional veggies for a personal touch. Give it a try today!

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

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Broccoli Salad with Chicken

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• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of this Broccoli Salad with Chicken, a perfect blend of crunchy textures and tangy dressing. This refreshing dish combines tender chicken, sweet cranberries, and creamy cheese, all tossed together in a zesty homemade dressing. Ideal for summer barbecues, picnics, or holiday gatherings, this salad is not just a crowd-pleaser but also incredibly easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 10–11 strips chicken (cooked)
• 2 heads broccoli (about 1 and 1/2 pounds or 5–6 cups)
• 1 cup dried cranberries
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds (roasted and salted)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion (or more to taste)
• 1 & 1/4 cups Miracle Whip OR mayonnaise
• 1 lemon zest
• 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

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Instructions

1. Cook chicken until fully done; chop into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Miracle Whip (or mayonnaise), lemon zest/juice, white grape juice vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
3. Chop broccoli into florets and add to the dressing.
4. Mix in cranberries, sunflower seeds, cheddar cheese, and most of the chicken.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 460mg
• Fat: 17g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 40mg