This Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is a powerhouse of protein, combining juicy shredded chicken with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese. The creamy, tangy dressing brings all the flavors together, making it a perfect choice for a quick, satisfying meal.
Not only is this salad rich in flavor, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for meal prep or a fast lunch. Whether you’re following a carnivore, keto, or low-carb diet, this dish offers a delicious way to keep your meals simple yet indulgent. Enjoy it on its own or as a filling for lettuce wraps!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish with fresh chives if desired.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 0 minutes | Total Time: 10 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
Origins and Inspiration
This Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is inspired by the carnivore and keto diets, which emphasize high-protein, low-carb, and high-fat meals for sustained energy and satiety. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish designed to be both nutrient-dense and satisfying without unnecessary carbs. The combination of tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese makes it a go-to recipe for those following a high-protein lifestyle.
This recipe is particularly popular among those on keto and carnivore diets because it provides essential nutrients without needing vegetables or fillers. The creamy dressing, made from mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, adds richness while enhancing the bold flavors of the bacon and cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- High in Protein & Healthy Fats: With shredded chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese, this dish is loaded with muscle-building protein and healthy fats that keep you full longer.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for busy days when you need a fast, satisfying meal.
- Versatile: You can enjoy it as is, wrapped in lettuce leaves, served over greens, or even stuffed in an avocado for an extra nutritious boost.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days for a quick grab-and-go meal.
Health Benefits of This Carnivore Chicken Salad
- High-Protein Content: Helps maintain muscle mass and keeps you feeling satisfied longer.
- Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Contains virtually zero net carbs, making it ideal for keto and carnivore diets.
- Good Source of Fats: The mayonnaise and bacon provide healthy fats that support brain function and hormone regulation.
- Rich in Flavor & Nutrients: The cheddar cheese adds calcium, while the bacon contributes essential minerals like zinc and selenium.
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
While this recipe is designed for a strict carnivore approach, here are some modifications based on your dietary preferences:
- Swap Chicken for Other Proteins: Try turkey, shredded beef, or salmon for a different take on this high-protein salad.
- Use Different Cheese: Instead of cheddar, you can try Parmesan, Gouda, or blue cheese for a unique flavor.
- Add More Crunch: If you want extra texture, toss in crushed pork rinds or crispy chicken skin.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Simply omit the cheese or replace it with crumbled pork rinds for crunch without dairy.
- Spice It Up: Add hot sauce, paprika, or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
How to Serve Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad
- As a Standalone Meal: Enjoy this protein-packed salad on its own for a quick and filling lunch or dinner.
- In Lettuce Wraps: For a keto-friendly wrap, scoop the salad into butter lettuce or romaine leaves.
- With Hard-Boiled Eggs: Serve alongside sliced boiled eggs for an even higher protein boost.
- Stuffed in Avocado: Hollow out an avocado and fill it with this creamy chicken salad for a nutrient-packed dish.
- With a Side of Pork Rinds: For extra crunch, serve with pork rinds or cheese crisps instead of crackers.
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Stir well before serving to redistribute the creamy dressing.
- Avoid freezing, as mayonnaise-based dressings don’t hold up well in the freezer.
The Carnivore Diet and Its Benefits
The carnivore diet is a high-protein, high-fat eating plan that focuses exclusively on animal-based foods. It eliminates carbohydrates, sugars, and plant-based ingredients, making it an effective way to promote weight loss, improve digestion, and enhance mental clarity.
This Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is a perfect fit for the diet, as it includes shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a rich, creamy dressing, providing essential fats and proteins to fuel the body without unnecessary carbs.
Health Benefits of a Carnivore Meal Like This:
Supports Muscle Growth & Maintenance – Packed with protein from chicken, bacon, and cheese, this dish helps maintain lean muscle mass.
Boosts Energy & Satiety – The healthy fats from mayonnaise, bacon, and cheese provide long-lasting energy and keep you full for hours.
Promotes Mental Clarity – Cutting out carbs and focusing on high-fat meals can improve focus, mood, and brain function.
Helps with Weight Loss – The low-carb, high-fat nature of this meal reduces cravings, making it easier to stick to a healthy diet.
What Makes This Chicken Salad Different?
Unlike traditional chicken salads that often contain vegetables, nuts, or fruits, this Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is designed to be:
100% Carnivore-Friendly – No plant-based ingredients, only animal-based proteins and fats.
Super Quick to Make – Takes just 10 minutes to prepare, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Rich in Flavor & Texture – The combination of cheesy creaminess, crispy bacon, and tender chicken makes each bite incredibly satisfying.
Perfect for Meal Prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
Ways to Customize This Recipe
Since this recipe is designed for a strict carnivore diet, here are some optional tweaks based on your preferences:
Switch Up the Protein – Use shredded turkey, roast beef, or canned tuna for variety.
Change the Cheese – Try mozzarella, gouda, or blue cheese instead of cheddar for a new flavor twist.
Make It Even Creamier – Add a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese for an ultra-smooth texture.
Spice It Up – While seasonings are limited on carnivore, you can use a dash of smoked salt, paprika, or cayenne pepper for extra depth.
How to Serve Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad
Since the carnivore diet eliminates most plant-based foods, here are some ways to enjoy this chicken salad without carbs:
On Its Own – Eat it straight from the bowl for a quick and satisfying meal.
With Pork Rinds – Use crispy pork rinds as a scoop for an extra crunchy bite.
Wrapped in Chicken Skin – For the ultimate carnivore-friendly wrap, use crispy baked chicken skin instead of lettuce.
Stuffed in Cheese Cups – Melt Parmesan or cheddar cheese in small circles, let them harden, and use them as edible cups for this salad.
Paired with Hard-Boiled Eggs – Slice boiled eggs and top them with this creamy chicken mixture for an extra protein boost.
Best Practices for Meal Prep & Storage
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
No Freezing: The mayonnaise-based dressing does not freeze well, as it can separate.
Make It Fresh: For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it within 24 hours of making it.
Serving Tip: Stir well before serving to redistribute the dressing evenly.
FAQs About This Recipe
Can I eat this on a keto diet?
Yes! This recipe is keto-friendly, as it is low in carbs and high in healthy fats.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds extra flavor and makes this dish even easier to prepare.
What’s the best mayonnaise for this recipe?
Use full-fat, sugar-free mayonnaise to keep it carnivore and keto-compliant.
Can I add any vegetables?
While the strict carnivore diet doesn’t allow vegetables, you can add chopped celery, green onions, or avocado if you’re following a more flexible keto plan.
Conclusion
The Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is a rich, protein-packed, and flavorful dish that is perfect for those following a carnivore, keto, or low-carb lifestyle. With its creamy texture, crispy bacon, and savory cheddar cheese, this salad is both satisfying and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes.
Whether you enjoy it on its own, with pork rinds, or as a lettuce wrap alternative, this dish is a versatile and convenient meal that fits into any high-protein diet. Plus, with its healthy fats and essential nutrients, it keeps you fuller for longer while supporting muscle growth and sustained energy levels.
For those looking for a quick, delicious, and nutrient-dense meal, this Carnivore Loaded Chicken Salad is a must-try. It’s a great option for meal prep, easy lunches, or a satisfying post-workout meal. Give it a try and enjoy the bold flavors and simple preparation that make this recipe a go-to for carnivore and keto eaters alike!