Indulging in the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich is a beloved experience, one that evokes memories of leisurely summer picnics and backyard barbecues. Now, imagine transforming that iconic flavor combination into a hearty, comforting dish that tantalizes the senses and nourishes the body. The Savory BLT Chicken Salad captures this essence, marrying the rich, smoky taste of crispy bacon with tender, succulent chicken, sun-kissed cherry tomatoes, and the crisp freshness of romaine lettuce. Each bite presents a crunch that gives way to creamy, savory notes, making it a delightful dish worthy of any occasion.
Picture this: a hearty bowl filled to the brim with colorful ingredients, each element contributing to a symphony of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon sizzles with a satisfying crunch, while the tender chicken adds a lovely, meaty depth. Bright, juicy cherry tomatoes burst with sweetness, countered by the refreshing crunch of romaine lettuce, all enveloped in a luxurious, creamy dressing kissed with Dijon mustard. This salad sings with brightness, making each forkful not just a meal, but a joyful celebration on your palate.
Whether you’re planning a casual lunch, a family dinner, or a weekend gathering with friends, this Savory BLT Chicken Salad holds its own as the star of the show. It’s the kind of dish that invites everyone to dig in and savor the experience, leaving you with a warm, satisfied feeling long after the last bite.
Why You’ll Love This Savory BLT Chicken Salad
What sets this Savory BLT Chicken Salad apart from other salads is its ability to offer comfort and satisfaction while being refreshingly light—perfect for any season. Each ingredient shines on its own yet comes together like an orchestra, playing harmoniously to create something truly special. The combination of smoky bacon and juicy tomatoes stimulates your appetite, while the creamy dressing envelops each morsel with a delightful richness.
This dish is versatile enough for a myriad of occasions. Serve it as a vibrant centerpiece at a summer picnic, or delight your family at the dinner table with a wholesome meal packed with protein. Plus, this salad plays well with various dietary preferences—simply swap out the chicken for chickpeas for a delightful vegetarian option, and you’re all set!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into this culinary journey, gather your kitchen tools to streamline the process and ensure everything comes together effortlessly.
- Mixing Bowls: A couple of sturdy mixing bowls will hold your ingredients and make combining them a breeze.
- Cutting Board & Knife: Use a sharp knife to easily chop and prepare your fresh ingredients, ensuring you get precise cuts for even distribution in your salad.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons: These are essential for accurately measuring your mayonnaise and mustard, ensuring the perfect balance of creaminess.
Preparation tip:** Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you begin. It makes assembling the salad so much smoother and quicker!
Ingredients for Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Gather the following mouthwatering ingredients to create your Savory BLT Chicken Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut or grill some chicken breasts for a fresh taste.
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Bacon adds that beloved smoky flavor, but turkey bacon or even crispy tofu can serve as suitable alternatives.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness, but you can substitute with grape tomatoes or even roasted red peppers for a different twist.
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped: Romaine gives a satisfying crunch; iceberg lettuce can be a lighter alternative if preferred.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: For a lighter option, swap half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: This enhances the dressing’s flavor, but yellow mustard will work in a pinch!
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning elevates each component, making every bite burst with flavor.
How to Make Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Creating this scrumptious salad is a simple yet rewarding process:
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Use a spatula to combine them gently, allowing everyone to mingle.
- Make the Dressing: In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined. The aroma of mustard will tantalize your senses as you prepare the dressing.
- Toss to Perfection: Pour the creamy dressing over your chicken mixture and toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated evenly. Take a moment to pause and enjoy the delightful combination of colors and textures.
- Serve and Enjoy: You can serve this salad chilled or at room temperature, making it incredibly versatile.
Tip: If you’d like the flavors to meld even more, cover and let it sit in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
- Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare your chicken salad up to a day in advance for the flavors to deepen. Just hold off on adding the crisp romaine until serving time to maintain its crunch.
- Cooking Alternatives: For crispy bacon, consider using an air fryer for better crispiness without extra oil. If you prefer your chicken grilled, a quick marinade can elevate its flavor.
- Customization Ideas: Feel free to jazz it up! Add diced avocados for creaminess, or toss in some toasted nuts for a delightful crunch.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Crafting your Savory BLT Chicken Salad is a joy, but a few common pitfalls can detract from your dish:
- Overcooking the Chicken: Aim for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken. Use a meat thermometer (165°F) to ensure tenderness.
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t overlook the salt and pepper! A pinch brings the flavors to life, so taste as you go.
- Adding Too Much Dressing: Your salad should be coated, not drowning! Start with less and adjust accordingly for the right balance.
What to Serve With Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Pair your Savory BLT Chicken Salad with these delicious accompaniments for a well-rounded meal:
- Crusty Bread: A loaf of fresh sourdough or a buttered baguette encourages dipping into the creamy goodness.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad brings a vibrant touch to the table, complementing the chicken salad beautifully.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, seasonal fruits drizzled with honey add a sweet contrast to the savory dish.
- Potato Chips: The crunchy saltiness of chips is an irresistible pairing, inviting mindless snacking.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Elevate your meal with sweet, smoky grilled corn during summer gatherings.
- Pickles or Olives: Their tanginess breaks through the richness of the salad, adding a satisfying bite.
- Simple Garlic Bread: The garlic aroma wafts through the air, creating even more hunger as the salad sits ready.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your Savory BLT Chicken Salad fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will blend beautifully, but the lettuce may wilt slightly.
- Freezing: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken mixture (without dressing) for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator before mixing with fresh ingredients.
- Reheating: Ideally, enjoy it cold, but if you prefer a warm chicken salad, gently reheat the chicken mixture in the microwave for about 30 seconds, then mix with fresh ingredients just before serving.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Approximately per serving: 350 calories, 22g fat, 30g protein, 5g carbs, 2g fiber. These values may vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken?
Absolutely! Canned chicken saves time. Just drain it well and shred before mixing with the other ingredients.
2. How can I make this salad lower in calories?
Using Greek yogurt in place of half of the mayonnaise is a great way to reduce calories while retaining a creamy texture.
3. Can I add fruits to the salad?
Certainly! Diced apples or pears add a refreshing sweetness and a different texture, making the salad even more satisfying.
4. Is it gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure that all ingredients, especially mayonnaise, are certified gluten-free.
5. How do I store leftovers?
Use an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Avoid adding dressing to ensure that the greens stay crispy.
Conclusion
The Savory BLT Chicken Salad promises a delightful culinary experience that excites not just the palate but also the heart. With its symphony of flavors, vibrant textures, and comforting familiarity, this dish caters to the senses and invites you to share it with loved ones. Each bite is a celebration, capturing the spirit of beloved summer days, deftly woven into a nourishing salad that makes every meal feel special. So gather your ingredients, embrace your inner chef, and let this salad be your new go-to for any occasion!
Print
Savory BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Flexible
Description
A delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich transformed into a hearty chicken salad, featuring crispy bacon, tender chicken, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce enveloped in a creamy Dijon dressing.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
- In a separate smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until fully combined.
- Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything together gently until all ingredients are coated evenly.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature, or chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
Notes
Make ahead for enhanced flavors; add diced avocados or toasted nuts for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
