Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my BLT chicken salad! It’s like a summer picnic in a bowl, bursting with fresh flavors and the perfect crunch. Picture this: tender, shredded chicken mingles with crispy bacon, crisp romaine lettuce, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all coming together for a delightful bite. I love how quick and easy it is to whip up, making it my go-to for busy weeknights or when I have friends over. Plus, it’s so versatile! Whether you serve it chilled or at room temperature, it always hits the spot. Trust me, once you try this salad, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again. It’s not just a salad; it’s a celebration of flavor that’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients List
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded (I love using rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience!)
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (Crispy bacon is a must for that savory crunch!)
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped (Feel free to use any greens you love, but romaine has that perfect crunch!)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (These add a burst of sweetness; you can also use diced regular tomatoes if you prefer.)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (This is the creamy base, but don’t hesitate to use Greek yogurt for a lighter twist!)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (A splash of acidity brightens everything up—trust me on this one!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (Adjust to your liking; I usually go heavy on the pepper for a little kick!)
How to Prepare BLT Chicken Salad
Mixing the Salad Ingredients
Alright, let’s start bringing this salad to life! In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, chopped romaine lettuce, and halved cherry tomatoes. Just toss them together gently, making sure everything is mixed well. I love to use my hands for this; it’s the best way to ensure everything gets coated nicely without smashing the tomatoes. You want that fresh, vibrant look to shine through!
Preparing the Dressing
Now, let’s whip up the dressing! In a separate bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and lemon juice. Use a whisk or a fork to blend them until it’s smooth and creamy. The goal here is to get that perfect consistency that will lightly coat the salad without being too heavy. If it feels too thick, you can add a splash of water or extra lemon juice to loosen it up. Taste it, and feel free to adjust the lemon juice if you want it a bit zestier!
Combining Salad and Dressing
Time to bring it all together! Pour the dressing over the salad mixture and gently toss everything until it’s well combined. I like to do this slowly to avoid breaking up the tomatoes too much. You want every bite to have that delicious creamy dressing! You can serve it immediately or let it chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes, which helps the flavors meld beautifully. Either way, it’s going to be fabulous!
Seasoning the Salad
Finally, let’s add some flavor! Season your salad with salt and pepper to taste. I typically start with a pinch of salt and a good sprinkle of pepper, since I love that little kick. Give it another gentle toss, and don’t be afraid to taste a bit to see if it needs more seasoning. You want it to sing with flavor, so adjust as needed! And voila, your BLT chicken salad is ready to shine on the table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a quick and easy meal that comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!
- The combination of flavors and textures is simply unbeatable: tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh greens, and juicy tomatoes.
- It’s super versatile! You can enjoy it as a main dish, a side, or even in a sandwich or wrap.
- Customizable to your heart’s content; add your favorite veggies or switch up the dressing for a new twist.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, everyone will rave about this salad.
- Low in calories but high in flavor—perfect for those watching their intake without sacrificing taste!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your BLT chicken salad turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips to keep in mind:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of your chicken, bacon, and veggies makes all the difference. If you can, use freshly cooked chicken or a good-quality rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the salad and dressing, be gentle! Overmixing can break up the tomatoes and make everything mushy. You want that lovely texture to shine through!
- Chill Before Serving: If you have time, let the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, making each bite even more delicious!
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone has different tastes, so be sure to taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. I often add a little extra pepper for that extra zing!
- Get Creative: Feel free to add in other ingredients like avocado, cucumbers, or even a sprinkle of cheese. This salad is super flexible, so make it your own!
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It should stay fresh for a couple of days, but I recommend eating it within 24 hours for the best texture.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making a BLT chicken salad that will wow your taste buds and keep everyone coming back for more!
Variations
Okay, let’s get a little creative with your BLT chicken salad! There are so many fun ways to switch things up and make it your own. Here are some of my favorite variations that I think you’ll love:
- Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs can elevate your salad to a whole new level! Try adding chopped basil, cilantro, or parsley for a burst of freshness. I’m a huge fan of dill—it adds such a lovely flavor!
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. A touch of smoked paprika can also bring a nice depth of flavor to the mix!
- Veggie Love: Don’t stop at just tomatoes and lettuce! Toss in some sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even shredded carrots for added crunch and color. You can also try adding some avocado for a creamy twist!
- Fruit Additions: For a sweet contrast, think about adding some diced apples, grapes, or even sliced strawberries. The sweetness pairs so beautifully with the savory elements!
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted nuts like almonds or walnuts for an extra crunch and a dose of healthy fat. They really bring a wonderful texture to the salad!
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle in some crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese for a rich, creamy element. It’s a game-changer for flavor, trust me!
- Different Dressings: Switch up the dressing by using ranch, blue cheese, or a zesty vinaigrette instead of mayonnaise. Each one brings a unique twist that can completely change the flavor profile!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. The beauty of this BLT chicken salad is its versatility, so let your imagination run wild! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got some leftovers? No worries, storing your BLT chicken salad is super easy! To keep it fresh, simply transfer any uneaten salad into an airtight container. This will help retain its crispness and flavor. I usually try to eat my leftovers within 24 hours for the best texture, but it can last up to 2 days in the fridge. Just keep in mind that the longer it sits, the softer the lettuce might get!
Now, if you’re thinking about reheating, I recommend enjoying this salad cold or at room temperature. The flavors are really best that way! If you absolutely want to warm it up, you can gently heat the chicken in a microwave for about 30 seconds, but be careful not to cook the lettuce or tomatoes. Trust me, you want to keep that fresh crunch!
So, whether you’re diving into it right after making it or enjoying those delightful leftovers, your BLT chicken salad is sure to be a winner every time!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk numbers! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of my delicious BLT chicken salad. Keep in mind these values are approximate and can vary based on the exact ingredients you use:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
This salad is packed with protein, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner, while still being mindful of calorie intake. Whether you’re enjoying it for a healthy meal or just a tasty treat, knowing the nutritional content can help you feel great about your choices. Happy eating!
Your Turn to Enjoy
Now it’s your turn to dive into the deliciousness of this BLT chicken salad! I can’t wait for you to try it out and experience all those fantastic flavors for yourself. Whether you whip it up for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a light dinner, I promise it’s going to be a hit!
Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear what you think! Did you add any fun variations or tricks of your own? Drop a comment below and share your experience—I’m always excited to hear from fellow food lovers! And if you snapped some pics, please share them too; I’d love to see your beautiful creations. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!
Print
BLT chicken salad: 7 irresistible flavors to savor
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A fresh and tasty salad combining chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomato.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix the chicken, bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes.
- In a separate bowl, combine mayonnaise and lemon juice.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use grilled chicken for extra flavor.
- For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Customize with other vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: blt chicken salad
