Breezy summer days call for light and delightful dishes that deliver both flavor and satisfaction. Picture yourself enjoying a vibrant bowl of BLT Chicken Salad, where the bright red and green hues beckon you closer. The aroma of crispy bacon, mingled with the freshness of ripe cherry tomatoes and the crunch of celery, wafts through the air, igniting your appetite. Each bite offers a medley of textures—crunchy, creamy, and meaty—that leaves you craving another.
This salad elegantly marries the beloved flavors of a classic BLT sandwich, combining them with succulent grilled chicken to create a nutritious meal bursting with flavor. The sweetness from the cherry tomatoes complements the salty, smoky bacon, while the creamy dressing seamlessly ties it all together. It’s a dish that invites you to savor each morsel, making it perfect for summer gatherings, casual lunches, or a delightful dinner with friends. With the simplicity of preparation, you can whip this up in no time, turning routine meals into culinary celebrations that your taste buds won’t soon forget.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad
This BLT Chicken Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that awakens the senses. The comforting flavors meld into a wholesome dish that keeps you feeling satisfied without the heaviness often found in traditional salads. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the tender chicken that acts as the nourishing base to the crispy bacon that adds a satisfying crunch with every bite. This salad shines on picnics, potlucks, and family dinners, feeling both indulgent and light at once.
What truly sets this recipe apart is its versatility. Not only does it cater to various palates, but it also allows for countless variations. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just want to treat yourself, this dish effortlessly adapts. You’ll find it to be a delightful option for meal prep, ensuring that nutritious lunches throughout the week don’t feel monotonous.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Creating your BLT Chicken Salad requires just a few essential kitchen tools that streamline the process and enhance your cooking experience:
- Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients, a sturdy mixing bowl lets you toss everything together without worry.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: Slicing and dicing ingredients is easier and safer with a precision knife and a good cutting board, ensuring clean cuts for all your veggies and chicken.
- Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements for your dressing ensure that each ingredient harmoniously blends together, enhancing the dish rather than overpowering it.
- Spatula or Salad Tongs: These tools make serving and tossing the salad a breeze, ensuring that each ingredient gets coated in the luscious dressing.
Before you start, gather your ingredients and prep your space. This setup allows you to dive straight into the cooking without unnecessary interruptions. Remember to have your chicken already cooked—rotisserie chicken works perfectly in a pinch!
Ingredients for BLT Chicken Salad
Gather the following ingredients for your savory delight:
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped: Juicy and tender, this serves as the salad’s foundation. Feel free to substitute with grilled turkey or tofu for a different protein.
- 1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp: The heart of the flavor lies in this crispy joy. Consider turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half: Their sweet burst complements the dish perfectly. If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, grape tomatoes can work just as well.
- 1/2 small red onion, diced small: Adds a zesty crunch; you can swap with green onions for a milder taste.
- 2 stalks celery, diced: Crunchy and refreshing, celery contributes a garden-fresh element; cucumbers can be a refreshing substitute.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light): Creaminess anchors the salad. Greek yogurt offers a healthy, tangy alternative.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of brightness; lime juice can provide a slightly different zest.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Necessary for depth; fresh minced garlic works, too.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Balances the profile; feel free to increase if you adore onion flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A sprinkle adds warmth.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
Crafting your BLT Chicken Salad is a simple yet rewarding process that is as satisfying to prepare as it is to eat:
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Combine the Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and celery. Use your hands or a spatula to ensure everything gets well combined.
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Make the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This creamy blend will coat your salad in luscious flavors.
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Toss it All Together: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Gently fold the ingredients together until everything is drenched in creamy goodness. Be careful not to mash the tomatoes!
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Serve or Chill: You can serve the salad immediately for a fresh crunch, or let it chill in the fridge for about an hour. Allowing the flavors to meld makes the salad even more scrumptious.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Tips: This salad tastes wonderful when made in advance. The flavors deepen as it chills, making it perfect for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.
- Cooking Alternatives: While this recipe shines with cooked chicken, consider using leftover roasted veggies or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. The air fryer can easily crisp bacon for a healthier option.
- Customization Ideas: Feel free to sprinkle in some diced avocado or crumbled feta cheese for added creaminess and flavor. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the dish further.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the bacon, leading to an overly crispy texture that crumbles instead of adding crunch. Cook it until just crispy and drain any excess grease. Additionally, using too much mayonnaise can drown the salad in richness—start with half a cup and add more if you desire that extra creaminess. Finally, remember to balance the salt; as bacon already brings saltiness, too much can turn your salad into a sodium overload.
What to Serve With BLT Chicken Salad
This salad stands on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with various sides and dishes like:
- Crispy Garlic Bread: Golden and crunchy, it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing.
- Chilled Gazpacho: The refreshing cold soup complements the richness of the salad, balancing flavors nicely.
- Potato Chips: Their crunch provides a delightful contrast, enticing you to snack while enjoying your meal.
- Vegetable Crudités: A fresh platter of sliced veggies brightens your table and adds to the nutritious feast.
- Quinoa or Couscous Salad: A light grain salad can elevate your meal, adding fiber and texture.
- Fruit Salad: A sweet finish of seasonal fruits rounds out the meal, bringing joy with every juicy bite.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed, it offers a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory elements of the salad.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To maintain the freshness of your BLT Chicken Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. This salad remains delicious for up to three days. However, if you decide to freeze it, keep in mind that the texture of the tomatoes and celery might change once thawed. For best results, consume within 2-3 days and avoid freezing any leftovers that have been mixed with dressing.
If you need to reheat elements, like the chicken, use the oven or microwave. However, serve the salad cold for the right texture!
Estimated Nutrition Information
Approximately per serving (1 cup):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
Please note that these values can vary based on specific brands and portions used.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this salad?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken adds incredible flavor and convenience, making it a great time-saving option without sacrificing taste.
2. What type of mayonnaise is best?
Regular, light, or even Greek yogurt can work wonderfully. If you’re watching calories, opt for light mayonnaise, but traditional offers a richer flavor.
3. Can this salad be made without bacon?
Yes! You can skip the bacon for a lighter option or substitute it with crispy tempeh or mushrooms for a similar smoky flavor.
4. How can I make this salad gluten-free?
All ingredients in this salad are gluten-free, but make sure your mayonnaise and any accompaniments (like bread) are certified gluten-free.
5. Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This salad stores well in the fridge for about three days. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to enjoy to maintain freshness.
As you take the first bite of your freshly made BLT Chicken Salad, allow the flavors to envelop your senses. Feel the delightful crunch of perfect ingredients combined with creamy dressing that dances across your palate, leaving you longing for more. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or sharing it at a family gathering, this salad will leave hearts and bellies full. So gather your ingredients, follow this recipe, and relish the simple joys of good food and rich flavors. Trust me, once you experience this symphony of textures and tastes, you’ll want to make it a regular in your kitchen repertoire. Enjoy every bite!
Print
BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A light and flavorful BLT Chicken Salad that combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
- 1/2 small red onion, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the chopped chicken, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and celery.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Toss it all together: Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold until everything is coated.
- Serve or chill: You can serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for about an hour.
Notes
This salad tastes better when made in advance. Store it in an airtight container for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
