This BLT Chicken Salad is a tasty mix of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce. It’s like your favorite sandwich, but in a bowl!
You can whip this salad up in no time, making it perfect for busy days. I love enjoying it with a side of crusty bread—such a yummy combo that keeps everyone happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is the base of this salad. I prefer using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but any cooked chicken—like grilled or leftover—works great.
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy, but you can swap in diced regular tomatoes or even use cucumbers for a twist.
Mayonnaise: I love creamy mayo in this recipe. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute and adds some tang!
Red Onion: Use it for a bit of sharpness. If it’s too strong for you, green onions can provide a milder flavor, or you could soak diced onion in cold water to tone it down.
How Do I Make the Perfect Dressing for My Salad?
The dressing is a key component of your salad. Here’s how to get it right: start by combining the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl. Whisk them until smooth for a creamy texture. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Make sure all ingredients are well mixed before adding to the chicken mixture.
- Adjust seasoning if it needs a little extra kick; sometimes a bit more vinegar can brighten it up!
By tasting as you go, you can find the perfect balance for your salad.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty BLT Chicken Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare. Simply gather your ingredients, mix everything together, and you’ll have a delicious salad ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. Make sure everything is mixed well and the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and all ingredients are well combined.
3. Combine and Adjust Seasoning:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss everything together until all ingredients are coated nicely with the dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Serve and Enjoy!
To serve, place a generous amount of the chicken salad on a bed of fresh lettuce leaves or divide it into individual servings. Enjoy your refreshing BLT Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken, grilled chicken, or even canned chicken in this salad. Just make sure to shred or break it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, try using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy twist. You can also increase the veggie load by adding chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrients!
How Should I Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to keep the lettuce separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent it from wilting!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture and the dressing ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and combine everything together just before serving to keep it fresh.
