This BLT Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. It’s light, yet packed with flavor, making it perfect for lunch or dinner!
I love how easy it is to whip up! Just toss everything together and you’re ready to go. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic combo in a healthier way. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Shredded cooked chicken is a must for this salad. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, consider swapping with chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a lovely crunch. Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you want a lighter option. You could also try crispy tempeh for a vegetarian twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide a burst of sweetness. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes can work. Just remove the seeds and excess juice to avoid sogginess.
Mayonnaise: For creaminess, mayo is essential. If you prefer Greek yogurt, it’ll give a tangy flavor and cut down on calories. Alternatively, vegan mayo works well too!
How Do I Mix the Salad Ingredients Without Making a Mess?
Mixing the salad can feel overwhelming, but a few easy steps can keep it tidy. First, use a large bowl, so you have room to toss!
- Start with the chicken, bacon, and vegetables, tossing them gently with your hands or a spatula.
- Pour the dressing in gradually, mixing it slowly to coat everything without spilling.
- Give it a good toss, but not too vigorously, to keep the ingredients from breaking apart.
Before serving, make sure everything is well mixed, and adjust your seasoning as needed!
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, crispy and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy BLT Chicken Salad recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare. If you’d like to let the flavors mingle, you can chill it in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before serving. Perfect for a quick meal or casual gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. Give everything a good mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined. This is the base of your delicious salad!
2. Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a separate smaller bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This creamy dressing will elevate your salad!
3. Combine Dressing with Salad:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing. Make sure each bite will be full of flavor!
4. Season and Serve:
Take a moment to taste your salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt and pepper to suit your preference. Now, to serve, put a generous layer of chopped romaine lettuce on each plate and top it with a hearty scoop of the BLT chicken salad. It’s ready for you to enjoy!
5. Enjoy or Chill:
Feel free to dig in right away, or if you prefer, let it chill in the fridge for up to 2 hours for a refreshing cold dish. Either way, this salad is a delightful combination of flavors that everyone will love!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Instead?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful substitute. Just shred the chicken as you would with cooked chicken and mix it into the salad. It adds a nice depth of flavor without any extra cooking time!
What If I Don’t Have Apple Cider Vinegar?
No problem! You can substitute apple cider vinegar with white wine vinegar or lemon juice for a similar tangy effect. Both options work well in the dressing, just use the same amount as called for in the recipe.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent it from wilting. Just give the chicken salad a good stir before serving again!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken salad up to 2 hours in advance. Just cover and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. For optimal taste and freshness, add the lettuce right before plating!
