Are you craving a mouthwatering meal that combines protein-packed chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy avocado in one irresistible dish? Look no further! This Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Avocado Salad is about to become your new obsession. Imagine a quick, easy recipe that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort – perfect for busy weeknights or impressive lunch gatherings. In just 35 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy salad that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 avocados, diced
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by placing chicken breasts in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water. Close the lid and set to high pressure for 10-12 minutes, depending on chicken breast thickness.
- While chicken is cooking, crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and fully cooked. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Once chicken is cooked, use quick release method to depressurize the Instant Pot. Remove chicken and let cool for 5 minutes before dicing into bite-sized cubes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, crumbled bacon, and diced avocados.
- Add chopped cilantro and ranch dressing to the bowl. Gently mix all ingredients to ensure even coating.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting dressing amount if needed for desired consistency.
- Cover and refrigerate for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together before serving.
- Serve chilled as a light lunch or dinner, optionally on a bed of mixed greens or with toast.
Tips
- Chicken Perfection: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for food safety and optimal tenderness.
- Bacon Brilliance: For extra crispy bacon, pat the bacon dry before cooking and use a cast-iron skillet for the best results.
- Avocado Advice: Choose ripe but firm avocados and dice them just before mixing to prevent browning.
- Flavor Boost: For an extra kick, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or using a spicy ranch dressing.
- Make-Ahead Magic: This salad can be prepared up to a day in advance, but add the avocados just before serving to maintain their fresh texture.
- Serving Suggestions: For a low-carb option, serve on a bed of mixed greens. For more substance, pair with crusty bread or crackers.
- Storage Tip: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 310kcal
Carbohydrates: 7g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 51mg
