BLT Chicken Salad

Sharing is caring!

If you love the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich but are looking for a fresh, protein-packed twist, this BLT Chicken Salad is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, satisfying dish that combines juicy, tender chicken with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is easy to make and bursts with flavors and textures that will keep you coming back for more.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This BLT Chicken Salad takes everything you adore about the traditional BLT and transforms it into a lighter, more versatile meal option. Instead of bread, you get a bed of fresh greens, which adds a refreshing crunch and makes the dish feel less heavy. The chicken adds a hearty protein boost, making it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy a balanced meal without sacrificing flavor. The crispy bacon pieces bring that irresistible smoky, salty crunch, while the tomatoes add a juicy sweetness that perfectly balances the savory ingredients.

What truly sets this salad apart is its dressing — a creamy combination that is both tangy and rich, enhancing every bite without overpowering the fresh ingredients. Whether you’re prepping for a quick weekday lunch or serving a crowd at a weekend gathering, this recipe is reliable, delicious, and easily customizable. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (grilled or roasted)
• 6 slices turkey bacon or beef bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

How To Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

Start by cooking your chicken breast if it’s not already cooked. You can grill, roast, or pan-sear it with a pinch of salt and pepper until fully cooked and juicy. Let it cool slightly, then shred or dice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Next, cook the turkey or beef bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into small pieces.

Step 2: Chop the Vegetables

Wash and chop your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and thinly slice the red onion. If you’re using parsley, chop that as well. Having all your fresh ingredients prepped makes assembly quick and easy.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasoning to your preference. This creamy dressing complements the smoky bacon and fresh veggies perfectly.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chicken, and bacon. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the BLT Chicken Salad immediately for the best texture or chill for 15–20 minutes to let the flavors meld. This salad pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread or as a filling for wraps.

Expert Tips

• Use freshly cooked chicken for the best texture, but leftover rotisserie chicken works great too.
• For extra crunch, add toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts.
• If you want to lighten up the dressing, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
• Make sure to drain the bacon well on paper towels to avoid soggy salad.
• Chill the tomatoes before adding to keep the salad crisp and refreshing.
• Use a sharp knife to slice the red onion thinly to avoid overpowering the salad with strong onion flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for creamy texture and healthy fats.
• Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few drops of hot sauce into the dressing.
• Herbs: Swap parsley for fresh basil or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
• Dressing Alternatives: Use ranch or blue cheese dressing if you prefer a more robust taste.
• Grains: Serve the salad over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a more filling meal.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken and bacon with crispy tempeh or smoked tofu.

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For the best texture, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving. Leftover salad without dressing will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If the salad has been tossed in dressing, consume within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. Avoid freezing as the lettuce and tomatoes will become mushy upon thawing.

FAQ

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or leftover chicken is a great time saver. Just make sure it’s properly stored and reheated or served cold according to your preference.

What can I substitute for bacon if I don’t eat pork?

Turkey bacon or beef bacon are excellent alternatives that provide a similar smoky flavor and crispy texture. You can also use smoked turkey slices or even smoked paprika-seasoned tofu for a vegetarian option.

How can I make this salad dairy-free?

This recipe is naturally dairy-free since the dressing uses mayonnaise without any dairy ingredients. Just double-check the mayonnaise brand to ensure it doesn’t contain any milk products.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

Yes! To keep the salad fresh throughout the week, store the dressing separately and add it when ready to eat. Keep the salad ingredients refrigerated, and it should stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This BLT Chicken Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the beloved flavors of a BLT with an added protein punch and a fresh, crunchy twist. It’s quick to prepare, packed with nutritious ingredients, and endlessly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch, a light dinner, or something to impress at your next gathering, this salad fits the bill perfectly. Give it a try—you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create a delicious, satisfying meal that feels anything but ordinary!

Sharing is caring!