Protein Packed Carnivore Chicken

This protein-packed carnivore chicken salad has been my go-to lunch option for months now. The combination of tender chicken, creamy dressing, and savory bacon creates a satisfying meal that keeps me energized throughout the day without weighing me down.

I first created this recipe during a particularly busy work week when I needed quick, nutritious meals. Now it's become a staple in my meal prep routine, and my family requests it regularly for picnics and quick dinners.

Ingredients

• Canned Chicken: 1 can provides a convenient protein base that absorbs flavors beautifully
• Mayonnaise: Creates the creamy foundation for the salad adjust amount to your preferred consistency
• Sour Cream: 2 Tbsp adds tanginess and lightens the texture
• Bacon: Sliced brings smoky flavor and satisfying crunch
• Cheddar Cheese: 1.5 oz shredded adds richness and complements the chicken perfectly
• Garlic: To taste fresh minced gives depth and aromatic quality
• Black Pepper: To taste freshly ground is best for maximum flavor
• Parsley or Dill (optional): Adds color and fresh herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare The Chicken:

Open the can of chicken and drain thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer. Press gently with a fork to remove excess moisture this helps the dressing adhere better to the chicken.

Create The Base:

Transfer the drained chicken to a large mixing bowl and use two forks to fluff and separate the chicken pieces. This creates more surface area for the dressing to coat.

Mix The Dressing:

Add mayonnaise and sour cream to the chicken. Start with about 3 tablespoons of mayonnaise and adjust to reach your desired creaminess. The sour cream lightens the texture while adding subtle tanginess.

Season The Mixture:

Sprinkle in your desired seasonings including black pepper and minced fresh garlic. Be generous with the black pepper as it complements the rich ingredients wonderfully. Mix these base ingredients thoroughly until smooth and well combined.

Prepare The Add Ins:

Cook your bacon until crispy then allow it to cool completely before chopping into small pieces. This prevents the bacon from becoming soggy when mixed into the salad. Shred your cheddar cheese fresh if possible for best flavor.

Incorporate Texture Elements:

Add the chopped bacon and shredded cheese to the bowl. The bacon provides satisfying crunch while the cheese adds richness and subtle saltiness that enhances the chicken.

Final Mixing:

Gently fold all ingredients together until evenly distributed. Take care not to overmix which can break down the texture of the chicken too much.

Chill And Serve:

For best flavor development refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Serve with carnivore bread or on its own for a satisfying protein rich meal.

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The bacon really is the secret star in this recipe. When I first made this salad without it, it was good but adding crispy bacon transformed it into something extraordinary. The contrast between the creamy chicken mixture and the crunchy bacon creates a textural experience that makes this simple salad feel like a gourmet treat.

Storage Solutions

This chicken salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For best results, place a paper towel on top of the salad before sealing the container to absorb any excess moisture that might develop. The flavors actually improve after the first day as they have time to meld together more thoroughly. I often make a double batch on Sundays for easy lunches throughout the week.

Serving Ideas

While delicious on its own with a fork, this versatile chicken salad can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Serve it in lettuce cups for a fresh crunch, stuff it into bell pepper halves for a colorful presentation, or pair it with sliced cucumber rounds for an elegant appetizer. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside avocado slices or wrapped in a low carb tortilla. At my last family gathering, I created a chicken salad bar with various toppings and vessels for serving everyone customized their own version and it was a huge hit.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe welcomes adaptations based on what you have available. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully in place of canned chicken just shred it finely for the best texture. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a higher protein option. For variety, try different cheese options like pepper jack for heat or blue cheese crumbles for a tangy twist. Turkey bacon creates a slightly lighter version, while prosciutto adds an elevated flavor profile. The core creamy chicken base remains delicious with whatever modifications you prefer.

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Perfectly balanced between creamy and crunchy, this chicken salad will quickly become your favorite lunch option!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned?

Yes, you can substitute the canned chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or freshly boiled chicken for a fresher taste and texture. Just ensure the chicken is well-shredded before mixing with the other ingredients.

→ How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

When stored in an airtight container, this chicken salad will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors often develop and improve after a day of refrigeration.

→ What can I serve with this chicken salad besides carnivore bread?

This versatile chicken salad can be served on cucumber slices, in lettuce wraps, with pork rinds, or simply enjoyed on its own for a truly carnivore-friendly meal.

→ Is this suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This chicken salad is excellent for meal prep as it stores well and the flavors continue to develop. Prepare a larger batch on weekends for quick, protein-rich meals throughout the week.

→ Can I add vegetables to this salad?

While the original recipe follows carnivore principles (animal products only), you can certainly add diced celery, red onion, or bell peppers if you follow a less strict eating plan. These additions will provide extra crunch and flavor.

→ What seasonings work best in this chicken salad?

Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper work exceptionally well. For herb flavors, dried dill or fresh parsley make excellent additions that complement the creamy texture.