This BLT Chicken Salad mixes juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh lettuce, all tossed together with a creamy dressing. It’s a tasty twist on a classic, perfect for lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even canned chicken in a pinch!
Bacon: I love using crispy bacon for texture and flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or try crispy chickpeas for a meatless version.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a nice pop of sweetness. If they’re out of season, regular tomatoes diced small can work too. Just make sure to seed them to avoid excess moisture.
Mayonnaise: For a lighter dressing, Greek yogurt or avocado can replace mayonnaise. They provide creaminess but with added health benefits.
Dijon Mustard: This gives a nice tang. If you don’t have it, any mustard type will do! Just keep in mind, different mustards have different heat levels.
How Do I Mix the Dressing Just Right?
Mixing the dressing properly will make a big difference in flavor. Start by preparing the dressing in a separate bowl. This allows you to ensure everything is blended well before adding it to the salad.
- Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Add salt and pepper to taste; you can adjust these after mixing into the salad.
- Taste the dressing and tweak it until it fits your preference.
This technique allows for even distribution and enhances the overall taste of your BLT Chicken Salad. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup green onions, sliced
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious and fresh salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. If you choose to refrigerate it to meld the flavors, add an extra 30 minutes. Altogether, you’ll be enjoying this wonderful BLT Chicken Salad in just about 40 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Salad Ingredients:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In this bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together gently. This is where the flavors of your salad start to blend!
2. Preparing the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or fork to mix everything thoroughly until it’s well combined and smooth. This dressing will add a creamy and tangy flavor to your salad.
3. Combining the Salad and Dressing:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. It should look deliciously creamy!
4. Adding the Lettuce:
Next, add the chopped romaine lettuce to the bowl. Toss it lightly with the rest of the mixture. You want the lettuce to be incorporated but still crisp. It will add a nice crunch to your salad.
5. Serving Your Salad:
Now you can serve your salad immediately, or you can cover and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together even more. The choice is yours! Enjoy your refreshing BLT Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Rotisserie Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor. Just make sure to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces before adding it to the salad.
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
If you want a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or replace it with turkey bacon for a lower-fat option. Adding more vegetables like cucumbers or bell peppers can also boost the nutrition!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may become a bit soggy from the dressing, so you can add a bit more fresh lettuce and a splash of lemon juice when serving again to freshen it up.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture and dressing up to a day in advance. Keep them separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the lettuce’s crispness. Assemble the salad just before serving for the best texture!
