Savory BLT Chicken Salad Recipe for a Flavorful Meal

The aroma of fresh herbs, the crunch of crispy lettuce, and the savory satisfaction of tender chicken—just thinking about a BLT Chicken Salad makes me want to twirl around like I just won a culinary award. This delightful dish combines the classic flavors of a BLT with juicy chicken, creating a salad that’s not just delicious but practically demands applause. Whether it’s a sunny picnic or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe promises to elevate any meal into an unforgettable feast, making your taste buds do a happy dance.

There’s something nostalgic about salads like these, reminding me of sunny days spent in my grandmother’s backyard. She would whip up her famous chicken salad while regaling us with stories of her wild youth—back when everything was simpler and her hair didn’t resemble a bird’s nest. This BLT Chicken Salad is my homage to those carefree moments, bursting with flavor and topped with all the good stuff you crave. So grab your forks and prepare for an explosion of taste that will have you coming back for seconds—trust me, you won’t be able to resist!

Ingredients for BLT Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best, perfect for grilling or baking; adjust based on how many guests you’re feeding.

• Crisp Romaine Lettuce: Use fresh romaine for that satisfying crunch; it adds texture and freshness to your salad.

• Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems provide sweetness and color; choose ripe ones for the best flavor impact.

• Cucumber: A refreshing addition that balances out the richer ingredients; opt for English cucumbers for fewer seeds and more crunch.

• Avocado: Creamy avocado elevates the salad’s richness; make sure it’s ripe but not mushy for perfect slicing.

For the Dressing:

• Greek Yogurt: This serves as a creamy base while keeping things light; choose plain yogurt for better control over flavors.

• Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the dressing and adds a zesty kick; skip bottled juice if possible.

• Dijon Mustard: Adds depth and tanginess to the dressing; use smooth varieties for easy mixing.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; adjust according to personal taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Begin by preheating your grill or oven to medium-high heat (about 375°F /190°C). Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper. If you’re grilling, lightly oil the grill grates.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Grill or bake the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which usually takes about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or around 20-25 minutes in the oven. Let it cool slightly before slicing.

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

While the chicken cools, chop your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the cucumber, and slice that beautiful avocado into creamy wedges.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning as needed—if you like it zestier, add more lemon!

Step 5: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl or salad platter, toss together the romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado slices, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing and gently mix until everything is coated beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer your masterpiece onto plates or keep it in one big bowl if you’re feeling generous! Garnish with extra cherry tomatoes or avocado slices if you want to impress your guests even more.

Now sit back and enjoy your fantastic creation! The refreshing crunch paired with savory chicken will leave everyone asking for more—just be prepared to share!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create a delightful BLT Chicken Salad, start by searing the chicken to lock in juices. While it cooks, prepare your veggies and dressing to save time and enjoy fresh flavors.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preference! Try turkey instead of chicken or add some avocado for creaminess. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite combination.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, warm the chicken gently in a skillet to maintain its juicy texture without drying it out.

It was a sunny afternoon when I first made this dish, and my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. Their compliments made me feel like a culinary genius!

FAQs:

What is a BLT Chicken Salad?

A BLT Chicken Salad combines the classic flavors of a traditional BLT sandwich with tender chicken. Instead of bacon, you can add diced grilled chicken breast for protein, crisp lettuce, and ripe tomatoes. This salad offers a refreshing alternative, perfect for warm days or quick lunches. You can customize it further by adding avocado or your favorite dressing to enhance the taste while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.

How do I prepare the chicken for my salad?

To prepare the chicken for your BLT Chicken Salad, start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season them with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices. Grill or bake them until fully cooked, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cubing it into bite-sized pieces. This method ensures juicy and flavorful chicken that complements the freshness of your salad.

What dressing pairs well with BLT Chicken Salad?

For a BLT Chicken Salad, consider using a light vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and a dash of mustard. Alternatively, a creamy yogurt-based dressing or avocado dressing adds richness without overpowering the dish. These dressings enhance the fresh ingredients while keeping the salad light and nutritious. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination that elevates this delicious salad.

Can I make BLT Chicken Salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare BLT Chicken Salad in advance! To maintain freshness, store individual components separately. Keep the grilled chicken in an airtight container and add chopped lettuce and tomatoes just before serving. If you’re using dressing, store it separately too. When you’re ready to eat, simply combine all ingredients for a quick and convenient meal that remains flavorful and crisp.

Conclusion for BLT Chicken Salad:

In conclusion, the BLT Chicken Salad offers a delightful twist on the classic sandwich by incorporating grilled chicken while excluding pork products. With fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes alongside a choice of light dressings, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. Preparing it in advance allows for easy meal prep throughout the week. Enjoy this refreshing dish as a healthy lunch option or as part of your dinner spread!

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BLT Chicken Salad

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Elevate your meal with this vibrant BLT Chicken Salad, a delightful twist on the classic favorite. Featuring juicy grilled chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in a creamy yogurt dressing, this refreshing salad is perfect for warm days or quick lunches. Packed with flavor and customizable to suit your taste, every bite promises a satisfying crunch that will leave your taste buds craving more.

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Ingredients

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• 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 large cucumber, diced
• 1 ripe avocado, sliced
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat (375°F /190°C). Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
2. Grill or bake chicken until cooked through (165°F internal temperature), about 6-7 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven. Let cool slightly before slicing.
3. Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and slice avocado.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth; adjust seasoning if needed.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, avocado slices, and sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing and mix gently until everything is coated.
6. Serve immediately or store components separately for later enjoyment.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling/Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 400g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 9g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 85mg