BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Imagine the crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce of a classic BLT sandwich transformed into a creamy, protein-packed salad. This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe combines all those beloved flavors with tender chicken for a refreshing yet satisfying dish that works perfectly for lunch or dinner. The combination of smoky bacon, bright tomatoes, and savory chicken creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have you coming back for seconds. You’ll learn how to perfectly balance these classic ingredients for a salad that’s both nostalgic and innovative.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BLT Chicken Salad elevates the classic sandwich components into a hearty, crave-worthy meal that’s perfect for meal prep or entertaining. The contrasting textures are what make this dish special – crispy bacon bits provide a satisfying crunch against the tender chicken chunks, while juicy tomatoes burst with freshness in each bite. The creamy dressing, reminiscent of the mayonnaise you’d spread on a traditional BLT, brings everything together with a rich, tangy flavor.

What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be served on a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option, stuffed into a wrap for lunch on-the-go, or piled high on toasted bread for a more substantial sandwich experience. The preparation is straightforward with minimal cooking required, making it perfect for hot summer days when you want to minimize kitchen heat. The familiar flavors will appeal to picky eaters while still satisfying more sophisticated palates.

Ingredients

For this delicious BLT Chicken Salad, you’ll need:

• 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded (about 1½ pounds raw)
• 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
• 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 medium tomatoes, diced)
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

The chicken can be prepared specifically for this recipe or use leftover rotisserie chicken for convenience. For the bacon, thick-cut provides the best texture and flavor, though regular bacon works well too. Fresh romaine delivers the perfect crunch, complementing the other components of this chicken BLT salad beautifully.

Pro Tips

Perfect Your Chicken Preparation
For the most flavorful BLT Chicken Salad, season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before cooking. Poach them gently in simmering (not boiling) water for about 15-18 minutes until they reach 165°F internally. This gentle cooking method ensures juicy, tender chicken that shreds beautifully. Alternatively, roast chicken breasts at 375°F for 25-30 minutes for a deeper flavor profile. Always let your chicken cool completely before chopping or shredding to maintain moisture.

Bacon Cooking Technique
The key to perfect bacon for your salad is cooking it until it’s thoroughly crisp but not burnt. Start with a cold pan and cook the bacon over medium heat, turning occasionally. This slow rendering process releases more fat and creates evenly crispy bacon. Drain on paper towels and crumble only when completely cool for the best texture. Save a tablespoon of the bacon fat to add to your dressing for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

Dressing Balance
The dressing brings all the components of this BLT Chicken Salad together. For the best flavor, mix your dressing ingredients in a separate bowl before adding to the salad components. Allow the dressing to chill for at least 30 minutes before combining with other ingredients – this resting time allows the flavors to develop and meld. Adjust acidity with more lemon juice or add a touch of honey if you prefer a slightly sweeter dressing. Always taste and adjust seasonings before tossing with your salad.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken
If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, begin by seasoning chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Either poach them in simmering water for 15-18 minutes, or roast at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to cool completely before dicing into bite-sized pieces or shredding. This can be done a day ahead and refrigerated if you’re planning ahead.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet and heat over medium. Cook until crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces. Set aside a little extra for garnishing if desired.

Step 3: Create the Dressing
In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust seasonings according to your preference. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a teaspoon of the reserved bacon fat to the dressing for enhanced smoky flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash and dry the romaine lettuce thoroughly, then chop into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes or dice regular tomatoes. Thinly slice the green onions, separating some for garnish if desired.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled diced chicken, crumbled bacon (reserving some for garnish), prepared vegetables, and sliced green onions. Pour the dressing over the mixture and gently fold until all ingredients are evenly coated. Be careful not to overmix, which can break down the textures.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
For best flavor, refrigerate your BLT Chicken Salad for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld. When ready to serve, taste again and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with the reserved bacon crumbles and green onions for a beautiful presentation.

Variations

Avocado BLT Chicken Salad
Add a creamy, nutritious twist to your BLT Chicken Salad by incorporating diced ripe avocado just before serving. The buttery texture complements the crispy bacon perfectly while adding healthy fats. When making this variation, consider reducing the mayonnaise slightly to balance the richness and adding an extra squeeze of lemon juice to prevent the avocado from browning. This California-inspired version makes for an even more substantial meal.

Greek Yogurt BLT Chicken Salad
For a lighter, protein-packed version, substitute half or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This variation reduces calories while adding tanginess and extra protein. To balance the sharper taste of yogurt, you might want to add a teaspoon of honey to the dressing. This healthier adaptation maintains all the classic flavors of a chicken BLT salad while creating a more nutritious profile perfect for meal prep lunches.

Spicy Southwest BLT Chicken Salad
Transform your salad with southwestern flair by adding 1/2 cup of corn kernels, 1/2 cup black beans, and 1/4 cup diced red onion. Season the chicken with taco seasoning before cooking, and incorporate 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro and 1/2 teaspoon of chipotle powder into the dressing. This variation brings a smoky heat that pairs wonderfully with the bacon while creating a more complex flavor profile.

Storage and Serving

This BLT Chicken Salad keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. For optimal freshness, consider storing the lettuce separately and mixing it in just before serving to maintain its crunch. If making ahead for meal prep, prepare all components but keep the dressing separate, combining everything only when ready to eat.

For serving, this versatile salad shines in multiple presentations. Create a stunning lunch by serving it in lettuce cups or butter lettuce wraps for a low-carb option with wonderful textural contrast. For a more substantial meal, pile the salad on toasted sourdough or a croissant with extra lettuce for a gourmet sandwich experience. It also makes an impressive presentation when scooped onto a halved avocado or served with pita wedges and cucumber slices for a Mediterranean-inspired plate.

For entertaining, consider offering this BLT Chicken Salad as part of a buffet alongside sliced baguette, various crackers, and fresh fruit for a crowd-pleasing spread that works equally well for casual gatherings or more formal occasions.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saving option for this BLT Chicken Salad. Simply remove the skin, shred or dice the meat, and proceed with the recipe. The roasted flavor adds a nice dimension to the finished dish.

How can I make this recipe healthier?
To create a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise, use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and increase the proportion of vegetables. You can also serve it over a bed of mixed greens rather than as a sandwich filling for a lower-carb option.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. For best results, add the lettuce just before serving to maintain its crispness. The flavors actually improve after a few hours in the refrigerator as they meld together.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise if I don’t like it?
Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for mayonnaise. You can also use mashed avocado mixed with a bit of olive oil and lemon juice for a different but delicious creamy dressing alternative.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this BLT Chicken Salad is naturally low in carbohydrates and can easily fit into a ketogenic diet. Just be sure to check that your mayonnaise doesn’t contain added sugars, and serve the salad over greens rather than with bread.

Conclusion

This BLT Chicken Salad is comfort food reimagined — taking the familiar, beloved flavors of a classic sandwich and transforming them into a versatile, protein-rich salad that works for any occasion. It’s the kind of dish that bridges the gap between simple everyday cooking and impressive entertaining fare, proving that sometimes the most satisfying recipes are creative twists on time-honored favorites. Whether you serve it between bread, wrapped in lettuce, or straight from the bowl, this BLT Chicken Salad is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

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