If you love the classic flavors of a BLT but want something a bit heartier and salad-forward, this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is exactly what your lunch or dinner has been begging for. It combines juicy, tender chicken with crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and crisp salad greens, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing that brings everything together beautifully. Every bite bursts with familiar flavors made exciting and satisfying, turning a simple salad into a real crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on these ingredients is a breeze, and each one plays a crucial role in crafting this flavorful and textured salad. From the savory protein and crunchy bacon to the creamy dressing and fresh veggies, every element balances the dish perfectly.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: The main protein that makes this salad filling and satisfying.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds a salty crunch and smoky depth.
- 1 medium tomato, diced: Gives the salad a juicy burst of freshness.
- 4 cups mixed salad greens: Provides a crisp, vibrant, and healthy base.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mild, sharp bite to balance the richness.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a creamy, slightly tangy richness.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creates a smooth and luscious dressing foundation.
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing: Adds herbaceous flavor and extra creaminess.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Lightens the dressing and adds subtle fruitiness.
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Provides a sweet and tangy kick to brighten flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances all the ingredients with a gentle heat.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring out all the natural tastes.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Gather and Prep
Start by making sure all your ingredients are ready to go – diced chicken breast, crumbled bacon, diced tomato, thinly sliced red onion, shredded cheddar, and those tasty dressings and seasonings standing by. Having everything prepped makes assembling the salad smooth and quick.
Step 2: Whip Up the Dressing
In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and ranch dressing until they form a creamy base. Then add olive oil and balsamic vinegar, stirred until perfectly combined. Season with salt and black pepper to balance all the flavors.
Step 3: Build the Salad Base
Place the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, tomato, and red onion into a large bowl. Each ingredient brings texture and flavor layers – juicy, salty, fresh, and sharp.
Step 4: Add the Greens
Top the savory mixture with your mixed salad greens. These leaves make the salad feel light and fresh while complementing the hearty ingredients underneath.
Step 5: Dress and Toss
Pour your freshly made dressing evenly over the salad and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Gently toss everything together using tongs or a big spoon, making sure each bite is evenly coated and flavorful.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give the salad a quick taste test. If you feel it needs a little more zing, sprinkle an extra pinch of salt or pepper. Serve immediately for the freshest crunch, or chill it for up to an hour for a cool, refreshing meal.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
For that extra wow factor, top your salad with some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for color and a bit of freshness. A few crispy bacon crumbs on top also work wonders to keep the irresistible crunch alive throughout.
Side Dishes
This salad pairs beautifully with light sides like garlic bread, crusty rolls, or even a bowl of soup. If you want to keep things simple, a classic iced tea or sparkling water with lemon makes the perfect refreshing companion.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to jazz up this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe? Try serving it in hollowed-out tomatoes or avocado halves for a fun presentation. Alternatively, use the salad as a filling in a wrap or flatbread for a portable twist that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover BLT Chicken Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To keep the greens from wilting, it’s best to store the salad and dressing separately if you plan ahead.
Freezing
This salad is not an ideal candidate for freezing because the fresh greens and dressing won’t hold their texture well after thawing. It’s better enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Reheating
If you want to warm up the chicken and bacon mixture for a cozy meal, separate it from the salad greens and gently heat it in a pan or microwave. Then toss the warmed ingredients with fresh greens and dressing just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time. Just dice it up and follow the recipe as usual.
Is there a way to make this salad vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and bacon, and consider adding crispy tofu or chickpeas instead. A vegetarian BLT twist could include smoky tempeh or mushrooms to keep that rich, savory flavor.
Can I substitute the ranch dressing?
Yes, you can swap ranch with a light vinaigrette or Greek yogurt-based dressing for a tangier or lighter option, depending on your preference.
How long can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
It’s best made fresh or within a couple of hours in advance to keep the salad crisp and vibrant. If prepping earlier, keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to crisp bacon for this salad?
Cooking bacon in a skillet over medium heat allows you to control crispness. Drain it on paper towels afterward to keep it from getting greasy in your salad.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is truly a delight—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that feels like a comforting hug on a plate. Whether you need a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s a wonderful choice that never gets old. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe as much as I do!
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BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 10m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and flavorful BLT Chicken Salad combining tender diced chicken breast, crispy bacon, crisp mixed greens, juicy tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese, all tossed in a creamy mayo and ranch dressing with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette twist. Perfect for a quick, satisfying, and healthy meal.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Gather Ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients including the cooked chicken, bacon, tomato, salad greens, red onion, cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, ranch dressing, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, black pepper, and salt.
- Prepare Dressing Base: In a medium bowl, combine the mayonnaise and ranch dressing, stirring until fully mixed for a creamy base.
- Incorporate Liquids: Add olive oil and balsamic vinegar to the mayo-ranch mixture, stirring well to blend the flavors smoothly.
- Season Dressing: Season the dressing with black pepper and salt, mixing thoroughly for even seasoning.
- Prepare Salad Ingredients: Dice the cooked chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and place in a large bowl.
- Add Bacon: Crumble the cooked bacon slices into small pieces and add to the bowl with the chicken.
- Add Tomato: Dice the tomato and add it to the bowl with chicken and bacon.
- Add Onion: Thinly slice the red onion and add to the salad mixture.
- Add Greens: Place the mixed salad greens on top of the other ingredients in the large bowl.
- Add Dressing: Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients to coat them well.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the salad.
- Toss Salad: Using tongs or a large spoon, gently toss all ingredients together ensuring even distribution of dressing and toppings.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the salad and add additional salt or pepper if needed for preferred seasoning.
- Serve or Chill: Serve the salad immediately for the freshest taste or refrigerate for up to an hour to enjoy it chilled.
- Enjoy: Savor your delicious and satisfying BLT Chicken Salad!
Notes
- For a lighter dressing, reduce the mayonnaise or use low-fat mayo.
- Ensure the chicken and bacon are cooked and cooled before adding to the salad.
- Tomatoes can be substituted with grape or cherry tomatoes cut in halves for convenience.
- Add avocado slices for extra creaminess and nutrition.
- This salad is best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- Adjust the seasoning and dressing amount to taste preference.
