This Easy BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for hot summer days! It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes for a tasty meal.
Whip this up in no time and enjoy it in a sandwich or on its own. I love munching on this salad while basking in the sun—what’s better than that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using cooked rotisserie chicken for ease. If you have leftover grilled or baked chicken, that’s great too. For a lighter option, you can also use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch. Turkey bacon is a good alternative for a healthier choice, or you can skip it altogether and add toasted nuts for crunch.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, but you can substitute with diced regular tomatoes. If you prefer, try adding diced bell peppers for a different flavor and a colorful look!
Greek Yogurt: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re not a fan, you can use sour cream or stick to just mayonnaise. For a dairy-free option, avocado or a vegan dressing works well.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor with the Dressing?
The dressing really ties everything together in this salad. It’s simple yet flavorful! Here’s how to make it shine:
- Start with mayonnaise as your base for creaminess, then whisk in Greek yogurt for tanginess.
- Add Dijon mustard for a kick; it balances the richness of the mayo.
- Don’t forget the garlic powder and dill! They add depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Always taste the dressing before adding it to the salad—adjust with extra salt or pepper as you like.
Mixing these ingredients well ensures your chicken salad is deliciously creamy and bursting with flavor!
Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/3 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh dill, chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Romaine lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 20-25 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for cooking the bacon and mixing the ingredients, plus a little time to chill if you prefer it cold. It’s a quick and satisfying option for a summer meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Fry until crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to drain excess grease. After it cools, crumble it into bite-sized pieces. This adds crunch and that classic bacon flavor to your salad!
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, green onions, and the crumbled bacon. This colorful combination makes for a delightful salad full of textures and flavors.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper until smooth. This dressing is rich, creamy, and complements the other ingredients perfectly!
4. Mix It All Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well-coated. Enjoy the vibrant colors and savory aromas as they combine into a delicious salad.
5. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt or pepper according to your preference!
6. Serve It Up:
To enjoy your salad, serve it chilled. You can place it on a bed of fresh romaine lettuce for a light and healthy option, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Either way, it’s sure to be a hit!
7. Enjoy Your Salad!
Dig in and savor your refreshing, protein-packed BLT chicken salad—perfect for hot summer days! Enjoy every delicious bite!
FAQ for Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just shred it and toss it in with the other ingredients for a quick and easy meal.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor. Alternatively, a vegan mayo or avocado can work well for a dairy-free option.
How Long Will This Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your BLT chicken salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad up to a day in advance! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from becoming too soggy. Mix everything right before serving for the best texture!
