Each bite of Savory BLT Chicken Salad promises an explosion of flavor that dances across your palate. Imagine the juicy warmth of tender, shredded chicken mingling with the salty crunch of crispy bacon. In this delightful concoction, vibrant bursts of cherry tomatoes lend sweetness, while fresh romaine lettuce adds a satisfyingly crisp texture in every forkful. The creamy dressing, accented with a hint of Dijon mustard, envelops the ingredients in a rich embrace, ensuring that each mouthful is as harmonious as it is delicious.
Set against the backdrop of your bustling kitchen, the vibrant colors of this salad become even more enticing—crimson tomatoes peeking out like jewels atop a bed of lush greens, the golden strands of chicken enticing you closer. Eager anticipation fills the air as the aroma of smoky bacon and zesty dressing wafts through the room, inviting friends and family alike to gather around the table. This isn’t just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings people together, perfect for picnics, summer barbecues, or a casual dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Savory BLT Chicken Salad
There’s a comforting familiarity to a BLT—bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes seem to evoke nostalgia for many of us. This Savory BLT Chicken Salad reinvents that beloved combination, offering a lighter yet hearty twist. What sets it apart? Firstly, the blend of textures: the crispy bacon provides a satisfying crunch, the juicy chicken offers a tender bite, and the fresh romaine leaves deliver a refreshing, crisp contrast. When paired with the tangy, creamy dressing, this salad becomes a textural masterpiece.
You’ll find versatility in this dish, too. Perfect for weekday lunches, it packs well for meal prep and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Serve it as a light dinner on warm evenings, or take it to gatherings where it undoubtedly becomes the star of the potluck spread. With its lively combination of flavors and a delightful medley of textures, this salad stands out as both a comforting classic and a refreshing escape from the mundane.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Creating the Savory BLT Chicken Salad involves a few essential kitchen tools that streamline the process and yield the best results. Here’s what you’ll need:
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Large Bowl: A spacious bowl facilitates thorough tossing, ensuring that each ingredient gets coated in the delicious dressing without clumping.
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Small Bowl for the Dressing: Whisking the dressing in a separate bowl allows for better integration of ingredients and prevents any splatters.
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Whisk or Fork: For blending the dressing ingredients smoothly, a simple whisk or fork works wonders.
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Knife and Cutting Board: Chopping the romaine and halving the cherry tomatoes becomes effortless with a sharp knife and sturdy board.
For a seamless preparation experience, have all your ingredients prepped and within reach. This way, you can bring the salad together in a matter of minutes, making it an ideal choice for the busy home cook.
Ingredients for Savory BLT Chicken Salad
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2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: This serves as the main protein and can be rotisserie chicken, poached, or grilled. For a vegetarian option, substitute with chickpeas or lentils.
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1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled: Nothing beats the smoky, salty crunch that bacon brings. Turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative.
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2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped: The crisp leaves add a refreshing crunch. Other greens like spinach or mixed field greens could provide an alternative touch.
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1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Their juiciness adds a touch of sweetness; feel free to replace these with grape tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes.
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1/2 cup mayonnaise: This brings creaminess to the dressing. Consider Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: The mustard offers a subtle tang. You can interchange it with whole grain mustard for a different flavor profile.
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Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning, adjust according to your preference.
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Optional: avocado, sliced: Creamy avocado elevates the dish, adding richness and a velvety texture.
How to Make Savory BLT Chicken Salad
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Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped romaine, and halved cherry tomatoes. The vibrant layers of color showcase the freshness of each ingredient.
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Whisk the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. The dressing may take a moment to emulsify, but this simple process will enhance the overall flavor.
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Mix It Up: Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture. Toss everything together gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are fully coated and singing in harmony.
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Serve: This salad can be enjoyed immediately, or for meal prep, store it in the refrigerator. If you opt for sliced avocado, add it just before serving to keep it from browning and becoming mushy.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
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Make-Ahead Tips: You can pre-cook the chicken and bacon ahead of time, making this dish a breeze to assemble. If you prefer, prepare the dressing one day in advance and store it in an airtight container.
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Cooking Alternatives: If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, feel free to quickly grill or sauté chicken breasts. Using an air fryer for bacon yields perfect crispiness without the mess of traditional frying.
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Customization Ideas: Feel free to play with the ingredients! Add in diced cucumbers for extra crunch, toss in some shredded cheese for creaminess, or include herbs such as chives or parsley for a fresh twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overloading with Dressing: While it may be tempting to drench the salad, too much dressing can drown out the fresh flavors. Start with half, then adjust to taste.
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Not Tasting as You Go: Each ingredient brings a unique flavor. Tasting during assembly helps ensure a well-balanced salad.
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Storing with Avocado: If making ahead, avoid adding sliced avocado until serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
What to Serve With Savory BLT Chicken Salad
To create a complete meal that delights the senses, consider pairing the Savory BLT Chicken Salad with:
- Crusty Bread or Rolls: Perfect for mopping up any leftover dressing.
- Grilled Vegetables: The smoky flavors complement the salad beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: A light, sweet counterbalance to the savory depth of the chicken and bacon.
- Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes can add a hearty touch to your meal.
- Pasta Salad: A cool pasta salad blends wonderfully, adding a delightful contrast.
- Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of sharp cheeses that enhance the flavors of the salad.
- Sparkling Water or Light White Wine: A refreshing drink creates the perfect dining experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Savory BLT Chicken Salad fresh:
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Freezer: This dish does not freeze well due to the mayonnaise; it’s best enjoyed fresh.
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Reheating: If you have leftovers, simply reheat the chicken gently in the microwave. Avoid reheating the entire salad, as this can wilt the greens and affect texture.
Estimated Nutrition Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
Note: Values are approximations and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Always consult a nutritionist for detailed dietary advice.
FAQs
Can I make this salad vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with chickpeas, use vegan bacon or skip it entirely, and swap mayonnaise with a plant-based alternative.
What type of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie chicken is ideal for convenience and flavor. Alternatively, poach or grill your own chicken for a homemade touch.
How long does the salad last in the fridge?
This salad enjoys a good 3-day lifespan in the fridge when stored correctly. Keep the avocado and dressing separate if possible until ready to enjoy.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! You could incorporate diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch or shredded carrots for added sweetness.
Is this salad kid-friendly?
Of course! The familiar flavors of bacon and chicken are often a hit with kids, making this a delightful lunch or dinner option for the whole family.
As you savor the deliciousness of this Savory BLT Chicken Salad, remember that every bite tells a story of warmth, togetherness, and flavor. It invites you to take a moment to relish the here and now, whether shared with loved ones around the dinner table or enjoyed as a comforting solo treat. Don’t hesitate to bring this flavor-packed dish into your home today. You deserve it, and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Savory BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A refreshing twist on the classic BLT, this Savory Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce with a creamy Dijon dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: avocado, sliced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped romaine, and halved cherry tomatoes.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad mixture and toss until all ingredients are fully coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate. Add sliced avocado just before serving to maintain freshness.
Notes
For added flavor and texture, consider roasting additional vegetables or adding shredded cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Tossing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
