Are you craving a salad that’s both hearty and refreshing? The BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy dressing that will quickly become your go-to dish for lunch or dinner. With a rich background inspired by the classic BLT sandwich, this salad takes the best of both worlds—savory, tangy, and healthy. Whether you’re hosting a gathering, preparing a quick meal, or simply indulging in a delicious bite, the BLT Chicken Salad offers a perfect balance of flavors that never goes out of style.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or quick lunches.
- Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with lean chicken, fresh vegetables, and bacon, this salad is a perfect combination of protein and crunch.
- Customizable: You can tweak it to your taste, whether you prefer a spicier version or a dairy-free dressing option.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it in advance and store it in the fridge for a quick, healthy meal throughout the week.
Ingredients Needed
For this BLT Chicken Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts (boneless, skinless, grilled or cooked)
- 4 slices of bacon (crispy, chopped)
- 4 cups of mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 large tomato (diced)
- 1 cucumber (sliced)
- ½ red onion (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese (optional)
- 1 avocado (sliced, optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing (or your choice of dressing)
Alternatives:
- For a gluten-free version, ensure the dressing is gluten-free or use a homemade dressing.
- For dairy-free, omit the feta cheese or substitute with a plant-based cheese.
- If you’re looking to make the recipe spicier, add some jalapeños or chili flakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill or pan-sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let it rest before slicing into thin strips.
- Prepare the Bacon: In a pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and chop it into small pieces.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, diced tomato, cucumber, and red onion.
- Add Chicken and Bacon: Top the salad with the sliced chicken and crispy bacon pieces.
- Toss and Serve: Drizzle with your favorite dressing (ranch, vinaigrette, or a simple lemon-olive oil combo). Toss everything gently to coat. For extra creaminess, top with crumbled feta cheese and sliced avocado.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- For Extra Crunch: Add some roasted nuts or seeds (e.g., sunflower or pumpkin seeds) for an added texture.
- Make it Sweeter: For a sweet touch, toss in some dried cranberries or apple slices.
- Go Vegan: Skip the chicken and bacon, and use chickpeas or tempeh for a plant-based version.
- Dress It Up: If you prefer a tangy twist, swap the ranch dressing with a balsamic vinaigrette or Greek yogurt-based dressing.
How to Store & Reheat BLT Chicken Salad
- Storing: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge.
- Reheating: If you prefer warm chicken, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove for a few minutes. Avoid reheating the salad with the dressing to keep the ingredients fresh.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you’re enjoying this BLT Chicken Salad, then you’ll definitely want to try some of these other delicious recipes that offer a variety of flavors and textures. Each of these dishes is easy to make, healthy, and packed with ingredients that will satisfy your cravings.
- Celery Salad: A Fresh, Crunchy, and Healthy Recipe – A light and refreshing salad that’s perfect for a side dish or a snack.
- Potato Salad Recipe – A creamy and flavorful potato salad that’s a great companion to any main course.
- Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps – Savory and cheesy wraps that combine the rich flavors of garlic and chicken in a fun, portable meal.
Give them a try and expand your culinary repertoire with these fantastic dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I make BLT Chicken Salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. Add the dressing just before serving to prevent sogginess.
2. What other greens can I use in this salad?
Feel free to swap mixed greens for romaine, kale, or any leafy green of your choice.
3. Can I use grilled chicken?
Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor to the salad and is a fantastic option if you’re looking to elevate the taste.
The BLT Chicken Salad is a deliciously simple recipe that’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and versatility. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal, a healthy lunch, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, this salad has got you covered. Try it today and experience the crispy, savory goodness in every bite. Don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments and follow for more amazing recipes!
BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts boneless, skinless, grilled or cooked
- 4 slices of bacon crispy, chopped
- 4 cups of mixed greens lettuce, spinach, arugula
- 1 large tomato diced
- 1 cucumber sliced
- ½ red onion thinly sliced
- ¼ cup of crumbled feta cheese optional
- 1 avocado sliced, optional
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking chicken
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons ranch dressing or your choice of dressing
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil. Grill or pan-sear for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
- Cook the Bacon: In a pan, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove and chop into small pieces.
- Prepare Salad Base: In a large bowl, mix together the mixed greens, diced tomato, cucumber, and red onion.
- Assemble the Salad: Add sliced chicken and crispy bacon pieces to the salad.
- Dress and Toss: Drizzle with ranch dressing (or preferred dressing), toss gently, and add feta cheese and sliced avocado if desired.