BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

A Fresh and Flavorful Twist on a Classic

The BLT Chicken Salad takes everything you love about the classic BLT sandwich—crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes—and combines them with tender chicken in a creamy, flavorful dressing. This versatile dish is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving over a bed of greens. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a satisfying meal prep option, this recipe delivers on taste and texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – Simple ingredients and minimal prep make this salad a go-to for busy days.
• Packed with Protein – Chicken and bacon provide a hearty dose of protein to keep you full.
• Great for Meal Prep – Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for easy lunches.
• Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, lettuce cup, or on its own.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup Greek yogurt (optional, for a lighter version)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• ½ cup chopped romaine or iceberg lettuce
• ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken – Use pre-cooked chicken or cook and shred/dice chicken breast for the salad.
2. Cook the Bacon – In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
3. Mix the Dressing – In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Combine Ingredients – Add the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, and green onions to the dressing. Toss until evenly coated.
5. Chill and Serve – For best flavor, let the salad sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy it on toast, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens.

Variations

• Avocado Addition – Add diced avocado for extra creaminess.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in a pinch of cayenne or a dash of hot sauce.
• Low-Carb Option – Serve in lettuce wraps instead of bread.
• Cheesy Twist – Sprinkle in shredded cheddar or crumbled feta.
• Ranch Version – Swap the dressing for ranch dressing for a different flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration – Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing – Not recommended due to the mayonnaise-based dressing.
• Reheating – Best served cold, but you can warm the chicken slightly before mixing if preferred.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor.

What’s the best way to make this salad ahead of time?

Prepare all the ingredients but keep the lettuce separate until serving to maintain freshness.

Can I substitute the mayonnaise?

Yes, you can use all Greek yogurt, avocado mayo, or a light ranch dressing.

What type of lettuce works best?

Romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce work well for their crunch and mild flavor.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Just omit the Greek yogurt or use a dairy-free alternative.

How do I make this salad more filling?

Serve it in a wrap, on whole-grain bread, or add cooked quinoa for extra bulk.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Cucumber, bell peppers, or red onions make great additions.

What’s the best way to cook the bacon for this salad?

Baking it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes results in perfectly crispy bacon.

Can I make this a warm salad?

Yes! Serve the chicken warm and toss with the dressing just before serving.

How can I make this salad keto-friendly?

Omit the tomatoes (or use in moderation), skip the Greek yogurt, and serve it in lettuce wraps.

Conclusion

This BLT Chicken Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying dish that combines classic BLT ingredients with a creamy, tangy dressing. Whether you enjoy it in a sandwich, wrap, or on its own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. With simple ingredients and endless variations, this recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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