BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying dish, this BLT Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. It’s not just a delightful mix of flavors but also an excellent option for meal prep, lunch boxes, or casual gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, crispy Turkey Bacon, and creamy dressing makes every bite mouthwatering. Plus, it’s packed with protein, making it a nutritious choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This salad comes together in just 25 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
• High Protein Content: With shredded chicken and Turkey Bacon, this meal is loaded with protein to keep you feeling full.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or over a bed of greens for a light meal.
• Flavorful Dressing: The mix of Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning brings a creamy texture packed with flavor.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for quick lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious BLT Chicken Salad, you’ll need some essential tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk: This tool ensures your dressing is well-mixed and creamy, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients like tomatoes and avocados quick and safe.

Ingredients

For this BLT Chicken Salad, you will need:

Chicken & Bacon

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips Turkey Bacon (chopped (center cut))

Creamy Dressing

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or you can skip and use all mayonnaise)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper

Fresh Vegetables

• 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 1 avocado (diced)

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt then whisk in the ranch seasoning and pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, chopped Turkey Bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix well until everything is combined. Then add in the halved grape tomatoes and mix again to incorporate all elements thoroughly.

Step 3: Adjust Seasonings

Once everything is mixed together, taste your salad and adjust seasonings if necessary. When you’re ready to serve, gently fold in the diced avocado or place it on top for presentation.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your salad into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to let the flavors meld together beautifully.

With these simple steps, your BLT Chicken Salad will be ready to impress! Enjoy this tasty blend of flavors as part of your healthy lifestyle.

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

This BLT Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your preferences. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a simple lunch, there are many creative ways to present this delicious dish.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the salad over a mix of fresh greens like spinach, arugula, or romaine for added crunch and nutrients.

In a Wrap

• Use lettuce leaves or whole grain wraps to create a handheld version that’s perfect for lunch on the go.

With Crackers

• Pair the chicken salad with whole-grain crackers for a delightful snack that combines creamy texture with a satisfying crunch.

Stuffed Avocado Halves

• Hollow out an avocado half and fill it with the salad. This adds healthy fats and makes for an impressive presentation.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your BLT Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality chicken will elevate the overall flavor of your salad.
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your mixture before serving. You may want to add more ranch seasoning or pepper based on your preference.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for at least an hour allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Add Crunch: Incorporate additional crunchy elements like diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra texture.
• Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to adjust the ratio of Greek yogurt to mayonnaise based on your desired creaminess.
• Serve Fresh Avocado Separately: To maintain its freshness, add diced avocado just before serving instead of mixing it in earlier.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing sides with your BLT Chicken Salad can enhance the meal experience. Here are some great side dishes that complement it well.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances the savory flavors of the salad.
2. Sweet Potato Fries
   Baked sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to traditional fries while adding a delicious sweetness.
3. Vegetable Platter
   Crisp raw vegetables such as carrot sticks, celery, and bell peppers provide crunch and freshness alongside the creamy salad.
4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with herbs and lemon dressing serves as a nutritious side that complements the hearty chicken salad.
5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw adds another layer of crunch and acidity that pairs well with creamy dishes.
6. Hummus and Pita Chips
   Creamy hummus served with pita chips provides a fun dip option that complements the flavors of the chicken salad perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Using dry chicken – Ensure your rotisserie chicken is moist and well-shredded. If using leftover chicken, add a bit of broth to keep it juicy.
• Forgetting to season – Don’t skip the seasonings! They enhance the flavor significantly. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
• Overmixing the salad – When adding sensitive ingredients like avocado, mix gently. Overmixing can turn the avocado into mush and ruin the texture.
• Skipping chill time – Allow your salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Not customizing – Feel free to add your favorite ingredients! Consider adding nuts, seeds, or different veggies for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the avocado separate until ready to serve to maintain its freshness.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• Not recommended due to the texture of the ingredients after thawing.
• If you must freeze, leave out fresh ingredients like avocado and tomatoes.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Warm gently over low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about preparing BLT Chicken Salad.

What makes this BLT Chicken Salad healthy?

This recipe uses lean protein from chicken and turkey bacon, along with Greek yogurt instead of heavy dressings, making it nutritious and satisfying.

Can I make it vegan?

To make a vegan version, substitute chicken with chickpeas or tofu, use plant-based yogurt, and replace turkey bacon with smoked tempeh or coconut bacon.

How can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

You can add ingredients such as corn, bell peppers, or even nuts for added texture. Adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences!

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! This BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator and is great for lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

The BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Whether you’re preparing lunch or a quick snack, this recipe is sure to impress!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

BLT Chicken Salad

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in this refreshing BLT Chicken Salad, a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and vibrant vegetables. Tossed in a creamy dressing made with Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning, every bite is packed with flavor and nourishment. This salad is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes—but also ideal for meal prep, making it a convenient choice for busy days. Serve it over greens, in a wrap, or alongside your favorite sides for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Whether it’s for lunch boxes or casual gatherings, this salad is sure to impress with its delightful taste and high protein content.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips turkey bacon (chopped)
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
• 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 1 avocado (diced)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth. Add the ranch seasoning and pepper.
2. Fold in the shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, green onions, and halved grape tomatoes until well combined.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Gently fold in diced avocado or layer it on top for presentation.
4. Chill the salad in an airtight container for at least one hour before serving to enhance the flavors.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Mixing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg