Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Name: Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon; 1/2 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons minced fresh rosemary; 6 cups spring greens and/or butter lettuce; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 large avocado, thinly sliced; salt and pepper

Recipe By:

Juliette

Posted:

June 25, 2025

Updated:

June 25, 2025

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Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with rich flavors. This salad is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual lunch. The combination of tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado makes it both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, the addition of rosemary adds a unique aromatic touch that elevates this salad to a whole new level.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of rosemary, turkey bacon, and avocado creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve as a side salad; it’s perfect for any meal!
Nutritious Choice: Packed with greens and healthy fats from avocado, this dish is both delicious and good for you.
Impressive Presentation: Bright colors from the vegetables make this salad visually appealing for guests.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Mixing bowl
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking for both the chicken and turkey bacon.
Cutting board: Provides a clean surface for chopping vegetables and slicing ingredients safely.
Chef’s knife: A sharp knife is essential for quick and easy ingredient prep.
Mixing bowl: Perfect for tossing your greens and dressing together 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 Dressing

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

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Step 1: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat and add the turkey bacon. Cook until it’s crispy and the fat is rendered. Remove the turkey bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain any excess grease.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cover them with minced rosemary. In the same skillet over medium-high heat, add the seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown and crisp on both sides, about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Once cooked, remove the chicken from heat and let it rest briefly before slicing.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, toss together spring greens, watercress, and halved cherry tomatoes. Top this mixture with sliced chicken breasts, crispy turkey bacon pieces, and thinly sliced avocado. Drizzle generously with your prepared rosemary vinaigrette before serving!

How to Serve Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Serving Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad can be a delightful experience. This salad is not only visually appealing but also packed with flavors that will impress your guests or family. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Greens

Serve the salad on a generous bed of spring greens for added freshness and crunch.

With a Side of Crusty Bread

Pair the salad with crusty artisan bread to soak up the flavorful vinaigrette.

In a Mason Jar

Layer the ingredients in a mason jar for a portable lunch option that looks great and tastes even better.

As a Side Dish

Serve this salad as an elegant side dish during your main course meal. It complements grilled meats perfectly.

How to Perfect Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

To elevate your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad to new heights, consider these simple tips that enhance flavor and presentation.

Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make all the difference in flavor and nutrition.
Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust salt, pepper, and rosemary according to your preference.
Let chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest before slicing helps retain its juices for a more succulent bite.
Experiment with toppings: Try adding nuts or seeds for extra crunch or cheese for richness.
Serve chilled: This salad is refreshing when served cold. Refrigerate it for about 30 minutes before serving.
Drizzle just before serving: To keep the salad crisp, drizzle the dressing right before serving instead of mixing it in advance.

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

Pairing sides with your Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to complement your salad:

Garlic Bread: Toasted slices topped with garlic butter make for a perfect crunchy companion.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and nutrients to your plate.
Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs offers a healthy grain option alongside your salad.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
Couscous: Fluffy couscous seasoned with lemon zest pairs well with the robust taste of turkey bacon and chicken.
Cheese Platter: An assortment of cheeses introduces diverse flavors that balance the salad’s freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect salad.

Skipping the rosemary: Not using enough fresh rosemary can lead to a bland dish. Be sure to measure out the recommended amount for maximum flavor.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Monitor the cooking time closely for juicy, tender chicken.
Using unripe avocados: An unripe avocado can ruin your salad’s texture. Always choose ripe avocados for creaminess and flavor.
Not draining the turkey bacon: Failing to drain excess grease from the Turkey Bacon can make your salad soggy. Place it on paper towels immediately after cooking.
Ignoring seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper could leave your salad flat. Season each component to enhance flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 2-3 days for best freshness.

Freezing Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Freezing is not recommended due to avocado and greens’ texture changes.
Cooked chicken and turkey bacon can be frozen separately for up to 3 months.

Reheating Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken and turkey bacon on a baking sheet until heated through.
Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, checking often to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad special?

This salad combines fresh ingredients with savory flavors from rosemary and turkey bacon, making it both delicious and nutritious.

Can I customize the ingredients in this Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different greens or swap out proteins like grilled steak or shrimp for variety.

How do I ensure my avocado stays fresh in the salad?

To keep your avocado from browning, consider adding it just before serving or using lemon juice as a natural preservative.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The components can be prepared ahead of time; just assemble the salad right before eating for optimal freshness.

Final Thoughts

Rosemary Chicken, Turkey Bacon and Avocado Salad is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for lunch or dinner. Its versatility allows you to tailor it with your favorite ingredients or dressings. Give it a try and enjoy a healthy meal that’s satisfying and full of taste!