BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
If you love the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich but want something new, fresh, and bursting with texture, this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines tender shredded chicken with crispy bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a creamy, flavorful dressing. Every bite offers that perfect balance of savory, tangy, and fresh, making it a seriously satisfying meal that comes together in just 10 minutes. Whether you’re looking for an easy lunch, a light dinner, or a stunning party dish, this salad delivers on all fronts with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is in its straightforward, everyday ingredients that pack a punch in flavor and texture. Each element plays a vital role—from the crisp bacon to the creamy dressing—creating a harmony that’s hard to resist.
- 2 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken: Use rotisserie chicken or leftovers for a quick protein base that soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- 4 strips bacon, cooked to crisp and chopped: Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch that makes this salad unmistakably delicious.
- ½ cup sliced cherry or grape tomatoes: Sweet and juicy tomatoes bring freshness and a pop of vibrant color.
- ¼ cup diced red onion: Adds subtle sharpness and a bit of crunch to balance the creamy elements.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onion: Provides a mild onion flavor and a splash of green for extra appeal.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Creates the creamy, indulgent base of the dressing.
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and lightens the dressing without sacrificing creaminess.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers a gentle punch of savory depth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory taste subtly, complementing the fresh onions.
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt: Balances and brightens all the combined flavors perfectly.
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a slight kick without overpowering the salad.
- Optional for topping: additional cooked chopped bacon and/or chopped chives: Perfect for adding extra texture and garnish to impress.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Main Salad Ingredients
Start by tossing together the star players of the salad: shredded chicken, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, diced red onion, and fresh chives. This mixture is already a flavor powerhouse, with the bacon’s smokiness, tomatoes’ brightness, and onion’s gentle bite coming together perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well blended. This dressing is the magic that binds everything with creamy, tangy richness while layering in subtle savory notes.
Step 3: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the creamy dressing over the salad ingredients, then fold gently but thoroughly to ensure every morsel is coated. The consistency should be creamy enough to hold everything together but not soggy.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
If you want to take it to the next level, sprinkle some extra chopped bacon and fresh chives on top for that irresistible final flourish. Now, your BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped chives and crispy bacon bits make fantastic garnishes. They add bursts of color, aroma, and a delightful crunch that elevate the salad’s appearance and flavor profile.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs wonderfully with a crisp green side salad or some crunchy crackers for extra texture. Fresh fruit or a light soup also complement the savory flavors for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your BLT Chicken Salad Recipe in lettuce cups for a refreshing, low-carb option. It also works perfectly stuffed into pita pockets or wrapped in tortillas for a portable lunch. Or keep it classic by enjoying it over a bed of mixed greens for extra freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep in mind the bacon may soften a bit, but the flavors will continue to meld deliciously.
Freezing
This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well due to the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing. It’s better to prepare it fresh or eat leftovers within a few days.
Reheating
Since this is a cold salad, reheating is not recommended. If you want a warm meal, try heating the chicken separately and then mixing it with fresh veggies and dressing before serving.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken in this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe?
Absolutely! Turkey works just as well as chicken and pairs beautifully with the bacon and veggies, offering a similar texture and taste.
Is it possible to make this salad dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with dairy-free alternatives or vegan mayo to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing creaminess.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Additions like avocado chunks, boiled eggs, or a handful of toasted nuts can boost the protein and healthy fats, making it even more satisfying.
What type of bacon is best for this salad?
Thick-cut bacon tends to hold up better in the salad, offering a great balance of crispy texture and smoky flavor.
Can I prepare the dressing in advance?
Yes, making the dressing ahead of time can actually enhance the flavors. Just store it in the fridge and mix with the salad ingredients when ready to serve.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting and fresh about this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe that keeps me coming back for more. It’s quick, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit any meal occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own favorite way to enjoy this tasty delight!
Print
BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This BLT Chicken Salad is a quick and delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich, combining shredded chicken, crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and a creamy dressing made with mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. Perfect for a light lunch or an easy dinner, this salad can be served with crackers, in a tortilla or lettuce wrap, or over a bed of greens.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups cooked shredded chicken
- 4 strips bacon, cooked to crisp and chopped
- ½ cup sliced cherry or grape tomatoes
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onion
Dressing Ingredients
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon fine salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Toppings
- Additional cooked chopped bacon
- Chopped chives
Instructions
- Combine Salad Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked shredded chicken, chopped crispy bacon, sliced cherry or grape tomatoes, diced red onion, and chopped fresh chives or green onion. Set this mixture aside while preparing the dressing.
- Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, plain Greek yogurt, garlic powder, onion powder, fine salt, and black pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Mix Salad and Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing over the salad mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle additional cooked chopped bacon and chopped chives on top for extra flavor and texture. Serve the BLT chicken salad with your choice of crackers, in a tortilla or lettuce wrap, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of fresh greens for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- This salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
- For a lighter option, use low-fat mayonnaise and Greek yogurt.
- To make it gluten-free, serve with gluten-free crackers or lettuce wraps.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Feel free to customize by adding avocado, cucumber, or a squeeze of lemon for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
