When the summer sun shines bright and appetites crave something refreshing yet satisfying, my go-to is this delightful BLT Chicken Salad. Imagine biting into crispy bacon, plump cherry tomatoes bursting with sweetness, and tender chicken, all wrapped in a creamy dressing that ties it together beautifully. This dish effortlessly captures the essence of a classic BLT while offering the added benefit of being a low carb option, perfect for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free lunch.
I love how this recipe can be thrown together in just minutes, making it an ideal choice for a busy workday or a weekend picnic. Whether served in crisp lettuce wraps or piled between slices of your favorite bread, each bite is a celebration of flavors that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Join me as we dive into a refreshing twist on a timeless favorite that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is BLT Chicken Salad a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This BLT Chicken Salad comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when you need a quick, nourishing meal.
Flavor Explosion: The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering blend that satisfies on every level.
Versatile: Enjoy it in lettuce wraps for a low carb option or on croissants for a more indulgent treat—this salad does it all!
Healthy Twist: With reduced carbs and customizable ingredients, it’s a guilt-free option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Made in advance and stored correctly, it stays fresh for days, making it an efficient choice for your lunch planning.
BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- Cooked Chicken – Use shredded chicken from cooked breasts or a rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Bacon – Adds a savory crunch; dice into small pieces and cook until crisp for the best flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Fresh and juicy; cut in half for easy mixing and a burst of sweetness.
- Red Onion – Provides a mild sharpness; dice finely to keep the flavor balanced.
- Celery – Adds satisfying crunch; finely dice to seamlessly blend into the salad.
For the Dressing
- Mayonnaise – The creamy base of the dressing; light versions can be used for a healthier option.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the flavors with a hint of acidity; fresh juice is ideal.
- Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to taste for the best experience.
- Garlic Powder – Adds depth and aroma; use sparingly to avoid overshadowing other flavors.
- Onion Powder – Complements the fresh onion; enhances the overall savory profile.
- Black Pepper – Adds a touch of spice; sprinkle in for extra flavor.
Enjoy whipping up this BLT Chicken Salad for a delicious meal that is both easy and satisfying!
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and diced celery. Stir gently to mix, ensuring every ingredient is well-distributed.
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Prepare the Dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This creamy dressing will tie all the flavors together beautifully.
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Season to Taste: Taste the dressing, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. A well-seasoned dressing enhances the overall flavor of the salad.
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Fold Together: Carefully fold the dressing into the chicken mixture until everything is fully coated and combined. The salad should be creamy yet not overly saucy.
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Serve or Store: Enjoy immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Remember to discard any leftovers that sit out for more than 2 hours.
Optional: Serve in lettuce wraps for a refreshing low carb option!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Quality components like ripe tomatoes and crispy bacon enhance the overall flavor and texture of your BLT Chicken Salad.
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Separate Dressing: If making ahead, keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain the salad’s freshness and crunch.
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Adjust for Flavor: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings. A little extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice can elevate your BLT Chicken Salad to perfection.
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Avoid Soggy Salad: Ensure chicken and bacon are at room temperature before combining; this helps prevent the salad from becoming too watery.
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Try Add-Ins: Feel free to personalize! Avocados or hard-boiled eggs can add creaminess and protein, making your salad even more satisfying.
How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad
Fridge: Store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container and enjoy it within 3 to 5 days for the freshest taste.
Freezer: While not ideal, you can freeze the salad. Use a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 2 months. Keep in mind that texture may change upon thawing.
Airtight: Always ensure the salad is tightly sealed in the container to maintain optimal freshness and prevent any odors from affecting the flavor.
Reheating: If you freeze the salad, thaw it in the fridge overnight, but it’s best enjoyed cold—just give it a quick stir before serving!
BLT Chicken Salad Variations
Feel free to get creative with this salad—there are endless ways to tailor it to your taste!
- Dairy-Free: Swap out the mayonnaise for a homemade avocado dressing to keep it creamy and nutty.
- Extra Crunch: Add in some chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and added texture.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a diced jalapeño or sprinkle red pepper flakes for a touch of heat that livens up each bite.
- Herb Garden: Toss in fresh herbs like dill or parsley to enhance the freshness and aroma of your salad beautifully.
- Tropical Twist: Incorporate diced pineapple or mango for a sweet, tropical flair that contrasts deliciously with the salty bacon.
- Smoky Flavor: Use smoked bacon for an added layer of flavor that takes your salad to a whole new level.
- Zesty Upgrade: Mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard into the dressing for a zesty twist that complements the bacon perfectly.
- Egg-cellent Addition: Diced hard-boiled eggs can elevate the protein content and create a rich, satisfying mouthfeel.
Experiment with these variations to make your BLT Chicken Salad uniquely yours!
Make Ahead Options
These BLT Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can easily cook and chop the chicken and bacon up to 3 days in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can slice the cherry tomatoes, celery, and red onion a day ahead to keep the fresh crunch intact. Just remember to mix the dressing separately, and combine it with the other ingredients just before serving. This way, the salad remains creamy and fresh, ensuring it’s just as delicious on day three as it is on day one. Enjoy a stress-free lunch by prepping ahead of time!
What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad?
Picture a sunny afternoon, with family and friends gathered around, enjoying a delightful spread that complements the fresh flavors of your BLT Chicken Salad.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory salad, offering a satisfying crunch and vibrant color.
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Garlic Butter Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these add a comforting touch, perfect for scooping up the chicken salad when served in lettuce wraps.
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Chilled Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad brings a cool crunch, balancing the creaminess of the BLT Chicken Salad perfectly.
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Zesty Coleslaw: The tangy crunch adds another layer of flavor, making each bite even more exciting while enhancing the nostalgic picnic vibe.
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Roasted Vegetable Platter: A colorful assortment of seasonal veggies roasted to perfection adds heartiness and a depth of flavor to your meal.
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Sparkling Lemonade: The bright citrus notes create a delightful contrast to the savory chicken salad, refreshing your palate with every sip.
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Fruit Salad with Mint: A bowl of mixed berries and melons, lightly dressed with fresh mint, offers a naturally sweet counterpart that rounds out your meal beautifully.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: No meal is complete without a sweet treat! The warm, gooey cookies make for the perfect ending to your summery lunch feast.
BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the salad?
Absolutely! I recommend using shredded chicken from cooked breasts or a rotisserie chicken to save time. Both options provide a tender, flavorful base for your BLT Chicken Salad.
How should I store the leftover BLT Chicken Salad?
You can store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. Just remember to discard any leftovers if they’ve been sitting out for more than 2 hours to avoid any food safety issues.
Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
Very! While it’s not the preferred method due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the salad in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, and give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute any ingredients.
What can I do if my salad turns out too watery?
If your BLT Chicken Salad is too watery, it could be due to the moisture in the tomatoes or chicken. To troubleshoot, ensure that you’re using chicken that’s well-drained and only incorporating halved cherry tomatoes right before serving. Additionally, if you’ve made it ahead, consider straining out excess liquid before serving.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely, especially if you’re serving it to others! This BLT Chicken Salad contains common allergens like mayonnaise and bacon. If someone has a dietary restriction, you might opt for a dairy-free mayonnaise or try substituting the bacon with a plant-based alternative. Always check ingredient labels to ensure they align with dietary needs.
BLT Chicken Salad: Quick, Low Carb Delight for Your Lunch!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, cooked bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and diced celery. Stir gently to mix, ensuring every ingredient is well-distributed.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Taste the dressing, and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Carefully fold the dressing into the chicken mixture until everything is fully coated.
- Enjoy immediately, or transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days.