This Easy BLT Chicken Salad is a tasty twist on the classic sandwich. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, it’s packed with flavor!
Plus, it’s super simple to make. Just toss everything together and you’re ready for lunch. You might end up making it for dinner too! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using cooked chicken breast is ideal for this salad. You can easily make it using rotisserie chicken to save time. For a lighter version, consider grilled chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a lot of flavor. If you need a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using tempeh or coconut bacon for a similar crunch.
Cherry Tomatoes: Fresh cherry tomatoes are perfect for sweetness and juice. If they’re not in season, you can use grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes. Just ensure they are ripe for the best flavor.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to the salad. If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt instead. You can also try vegan mayo for a dairy-free version!
Red Onion: Its sharp flavor is great, but if you’re sensitive to the bite, soak the chopped onion in cold water for a few minutes. This softens the flavor significantly.
What’s the Best Way to Combine Ingredients for a Perfectly Blended Salad?
The key to a well-mixed salad is careful folding rather than strong stirring. Here’s how:
- After prepping your ingredients, start by combining the shredded chicken and bacon first in a large bowl.
- Gently add in the veggies, like tomatoes and onions, so they don’t get crushed.
- Pour the dressing over the top, and use a wide spatula to fold everything together. Be gentle to keep chunks intact!
Mixing like this helps distribute the flavors without ruining the texture of your salad.
Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried dill (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Romaine lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
Time Estimate:
This refreshing BLT Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you decide to let the flavors blend in the fridge, add an extra 30 minutes of chilling time. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Chicken and Bacon:
Start by placing the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled bacon in a large mixing bowl. This forms the delicious base of your salad.
2. Add Fresh Veggies:
Next, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. These will add color and freshness to your salad.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, dried dill (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix until it’s smooth and well combined. This dressing will bring everything together!
4. Toss It All Together:
Now, pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes!
5. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your salad. If it needs more flavor, sprinkle in a bit more salt and pepper as desired. You’ll want it to be just right!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BLT chicken salad on its own or scoop it into fresh romaine lettuce leaves for a light and crunchy wrap. It’s perfect for lunch or a quick snack!
7. Chill (Optional):
If you have time, pop the salad in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your lunch! 🌿🥗
FAQ for Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this salad. Just make sure it’s chopped or shredded into bite-sized pieces. You can also use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It keeps the creaminess while adding a tangy flavor. You can also use avocado mash for a rich and creamy touch!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it fresh, avoid adding the lettuce until you’re ready to serve. Just give it a stir before enjoying it again!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the salad (minus the lettuce) a day ahead of time. Just mix everything except the lettuce and store it in the fridge. It’s a great time-saver for meal prep!
