Chicken Salad Chick Broccoli Salad Recipe
This Chicken Salad Chick broccoli salad recipe is a vibrant, crowd-pleasing side dish featuring crisp broccoli, smoky bacon, and a sweet-tangy dressing. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for potlucks, picnics, or weeknight dinners. The balance of textures and flavors makes it a standout, while its make-ahead nature adds convenience. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s beginner-friendly yet impressive. Customize it to suit dietary needs, and enjoy its fresh, satisfying bite.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Small bowl
- sharp knife and cutting board
- Whisk or Fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or oven
Ingredients
- Broccoli: 4 cups of fresh broccoli florets chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- Bacon: 8 slices of cooked bacon crumbled.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup finely diced for a mild bite.
- Dried Cranberries: 1/2 cup for a touch of sweetness.
- Sunflower Seeds: 1/4 cup hulled and roasted for crunch.
- Dressing: 3/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon water.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Wash the broccoli thoroughly under cold water. Chop the florets into small, bite-sized pieces, discarding thick stems. Pat dry with a clean towel to remove excess moisture.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
- Cook the bacon until crispy in a skillet or oven. Let it cool, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside to add later.
Step 3: Dice the Red Onion
- Finely dice the red onion to avoid overpowering the salad. Aim for small, uniform pieces for even distribution. Place in the large mixing bowl.
Step 4: Shred the Cheese
- If using a block of cheddar, grate it using a medium grater. Pre-shredded cheese works fine too. Add to the mixing bowl with the onion.
Step 5: Combine Salad Ingredients
- Add the chopped broccoli, crumbled bacon, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds to the bowl. Toss gently to mix the ingredients evenly. Ensure the cheese is distributed throughout.
Step 6: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sugar, apple cider vinegar, and water. Mix until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.
Step 7: Dress the Salad
- Pour the dressing over the broccoli mixture in the large bowl. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Make sure the dressing reaches every piece.
Step 8: Chill the Salad
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling lets the flavors meld and enhances the taste. For best results, chill for 1–2 hours.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
- Give the salad a quick stir before serving. Serve chilled in a large bowl or individual portions. Garnish with extra sunflower seeds, if desired.