bacon balsamic chicken salad

this was one of those last minute, whatever's-in-the-kitchen meals. it's savory, sweet, crunchy, tender, and really just delicious. 

enjoy!

3-4 slices bacon, chopped

2-3 chicken thigh fillets, cut into bite sized pieces and marinated in balsamic vinaigrette

1/4 cup brown sugar

salad lettuce

2 green onions, chopped

handful dried cranberries

handful candied walnuts or pecans

1 apple, chopped

2-3 slices sharp cheddar, cut into cubes

in a large skillet over medium-low heat begin to render bacon. once the bacon is partially rendered drain all the fat from the skillet. add chicken and about 1/4 cup balsamic marinade. sprinkle brown sugar over the bacon and chicken. turn heat up to medium and continue cooking until chicken is thoroughly cooked. drain and set aside to cool.

in a large salad bowl combine all ingredients. toss and serve with balsamic vinaigrette and garlic croutons.

we're having burgers for dinner **wink, wink**

no, really. we're having burgers. just, ehhhhhh, not on a bun.

it is very possible that your nerd has a natural aversion to anything with the word "salad" in it. sooooo, unless you have successfully convinced your nerd that lettuce is made of bacon and mountain dew, he probably won't go near the stuff. this is where a little creativity and ingenuity come into play. if your nerd happens to be a salad lover (like mine is!), this meal is a great break from the norm!

we typically have salad four or five times a week, and this is on our top five list. i don't make it often, but sometimes when you've had salad after salad after salad, you just want a nice, juicy burger. this is the best of both worlds.

hamburger salad:

1 head romaine lettuce (use whatever lettuce you like. i use romaine because it is a great source of vitamins and minerals)

2 hamburger patties, seasoned, fully cooked, and chopped into small pieces

sharp or medium cheddar, shredded

1 tomato, cut into wedges

1 avocado, pitted and sliced

yellow onion, sliced and grilled

dill pickles (just do it. trust me. it's delicious!)

thousand island dressing

croutons

toss in a large salad bowl and enjoy guiltlessly.