BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious meal that satisfies your cravings and keeps you on track with your healthy eating goals, then this BLT Chicken Salad is just what you need! It’s a delightful twist on the classic BLT, minus the bread but packed with flavor and nutrition. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, delightful family gatherings, or even a light lunch at your desk. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in just about 25 minutes!

This chicken salad is not only tasty but also versatile. You can enjoy it right away or save leftovers for later—if there are any! Let me show you why this recipe has become such a favorite in my home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is of the essence.
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar flavors of bacon and chicken will appeal to everyone in the family, even the pickiest eaters!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have lunches ready for the week. Just grab and go!
• Flavorful and Satisfying: With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, this salad is bursting with flavor and won’t leave you hungry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this scrumptious BLT Chicken Salad, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; these are all easily found at your local grocery store!

For the Salad

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 5 strips of bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1/2 cup quartered cherry tomatoes
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken or want to switch things up, try using shredded turkey or even canned tuna!
• Add more crunch: Toss in some diced celery or bell peppers for an extra crunch.
• Change the dressing: Swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced jalapeños if you like a little heat in your salad.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by placing your chicken breasts in a medium-sized saucepan. Cover them with cold water until they are submerged by at least an inch. Cooking the chicken this way ensures it’s juicy and tender. Bring the pot to a boil over medium heat—this step gets things moving!

Step 2: Simmer Away

Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer for about 14 minutes. This gentle cooking method helps keep your chicken moist while infusing flavor from any seasoning you might add later.

Step 3: Prepare the Bacon

While your chicken is cooking away, it’s time to get that bacon crispy! Fry it on medium-low heat until it’s golden brown. The smell will be heavenly! Once cooked, transfer it to a towel-lined plate to drain excess grease before chopping into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mix Your Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped green onion, and black pepper. This creamy mixture will bring everything together beautifully. Give it a good stir until well-combined.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

After simmering, remove your chicken from the water and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Shredding allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully when mixed with other ingredients.

Step 6: Combine Everything

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken with your mayo mixture as well as quartered cherry tomatoes and crispy bacon bits. Mix until everything is evenly coated—this step is key for ensuring every bite is full of flavor!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Enjoy this salad immediately or store it in an airtight container in your fridge for up to four days. Whether served on its own or as a filling in lettuce wraps, this BLT Chicken Salad will surely become a staple in your meal rotation!

Pro Tips for Making BLT Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect BLT Chicken Salad is all about balancing flavors and textures, so here are some tips to help you shine in the kitchen!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality chicken make a huge difference in flavor. Look for ripe cherry tomatoes and crisp green onions to enhance your salad’s taste.
• Let It Chill: After mixing your salad, allow it to chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more delicious dish.
• Experiment with Seasonings: While black pepper is great, don’t be afraid to add other seasonings like garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor that complements the bacon.
• Try Different Greens: Serve your chicken salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach. It adds a fresh crunch and makes for a lovely presentation.
• Make It Ahead: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it ideal for meal prep. You can whip up a batch at the beginning of the week and enjoy it throughout!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

Serving your BLT Chicken Salad can be as creative as you want! Here are some fun ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a hint of freshness that elevates the overall dish.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices on top add richness and complement the other flavors wonderfully.

Side Dishes

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness of the chicken salad.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries bring a natural sweetness and satisfying crunch that pairs beautifully with this dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables drizzled with olive oil creates a warm, hearty side that complements the coolness of the chicken salad.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf seasoned with herbs adds protein and texture, making for a well-rounded meal.

Now you’re ready to serve up this delicious BLT Chicken Salad in style! Enjoy creating something special for yourself or your loved ones.

Make Ahead and Storage

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• If you’re concerned about sogginess, keep the bacon separate until ready to eat.

Freezing

• While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken separately before mixing with other ingredients.
• Freeze the shredded chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before using.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen your chicken, reheat gently in a microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad once it’s combined, as veggies and bacon can lose their texture.

FAQs

Got questions about this yummy BLT Chicken Salad? Here are some common ones!

Can I make BLT Chicken Salad without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon with crispy turkey bacon or even smoked tempeh for a plant-based option.

How long does BLT Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

This salad lasts up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container. Just remember to keep any toppings separate until you’re ready to serve!

What can I serve with my BLT Chicken Salad?

Consider pairing it with a side of mixed greens, cucumber slices, or whole grain crackers for added crunch and nutrition.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! The BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to grab a healthy lunch throughout your busy week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful BLT Chicken Salad as much as I do! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together great flavors and textures. Whether you’re packing lunch for work or enjoying a light dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t hesitate to share your experience!