Leftovers turned into a delicious meal. We made Fried Chicken Grana Padano, San Marzano Sugo with Rotini Pasta and had some leftover chicken and bread. Pasta is always awesome but we weren’t feeling it, so we opted for something a little “lighter”.

I’ve mentioned “Rob’s bread” several times in the past. Below is the description. The bread made amazing croutons when cubed and warmed in the oven.

We serve most pasta or soup meals with what my wife’s family affectionately call “Rob’s Bread”. Basically I get really good bread like a garlic loaf, Ciabatta or Stecca. I slice it, drench it in olive oil and season with salt and pepper. At that point, I either grill it on a hot grill pan or under the broiler until it is charred on the outside but still soft on the inside. Sooooo good.

Excerpt from Spaghetti al Pomodoro

All combined, this was a really good and easy weeknight salad. A lighter option would be grilled chicken breast and no bacon. Maybe something other than Ranch Dressing… but every once in a while, we need to splurge. 😀

Ingredients

Ingredients for Ranch Dressing

Adjust the dried spices per your taste.

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise (we use Vegenaise)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (we use Tofutti)
• 1/2 cup butter milk (we use Lactose free half and half)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp dried dill weed
• 1 tsp dried parsley
• 1 tsp dried chives
• 1-3 tsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Salad

• Leftover chicken grana padano
• Leftover charred bread
• 2-4 strips applewood smoked bacon, we prefer Niman Ranch
• Fresh local salad greens

Directions

How to make Easy Homemade Ranch Dressing

1. Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, dried spices and lemon juice. Whisk to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Put the mixture in a sealed jar and place in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to make Fried Chicken Breast Salad with Homemade Ranch Dressing

1. Cook the bacon until crispy. We prefer the slow in the oven. Once rendered, chop the bacon and set aside.
2. Cut the leftover charred bread in the croutons and warm in the oven until crispy.
3. Warm the leftover chicken grana padano in the oven and chop into bite size peices.
4. To serve, place a bed of fresh greens on the plate, top the bacon, croutons and chicken. Dress with the Ranch Dressing. Enjoy.