BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and delicious meal option, this BLT Chicken Salad is just what you need. Packed with tender shredded chicken, juicy tomatoes, and crispy turkey bacon, this salad is perfect for lunch or as a satisfying snack. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or hosting a gathering, this recipe stands out with its creamy dressing and vibrant flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this tasty dish in no time.
• High Protein: Featuring rotisserie chicken and turkey bacon, this salad is loaded with protein to keep you feeling full.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or atop greens for a light meal that fits any occasion.
• Creamy and Flavorful: The combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise creates a rich dressing that enhances the flavors.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your BLT Chicken Salad effortlessly, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here’s what you will need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl ensures you have enough space to mix all ingredients without making a mess.
• Whisk: This tool helps combine the dressing smoothly for an even consistency.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping ingredients quick and easy, ensuring uniform pieces.

Ingredients

To prepare your BLT Chicken Salad, gather the following ingredients:

Chicken & Bacon

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips Turkey Bacon (chopped)

Dressing

• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or you can skip and use all mayonnaise)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper

Vegetables & Garnish

• 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 1 avocado (diced)

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt then whisk in the ranch seasoning and cracked pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Bacon

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes

Carefully fold in the halved grape tomatoes. This adds freshness and juiciness to your salad.

Step 4: Incorporate Avocado Before Serving

Once everything is well mixed together, taste your salad and adjust seasonings if needed. Add in the diced avocado just before serving to keep it from browning. You can gently toss it into the desired portion or layer it on top of each serving.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your prepared salad into an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving to let all flavors meld together beautifully.

Enjoy your deliciously refreshing BLT Chicken Salad!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

This delicious BLT Chicken Salad can be served in various ways, making it a versatile meal option. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish.

Lettuce Wraps

• Use large lettuce leaves to create fresh and crunchy wraps filled with the chicken salad. This is a low-carb option that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Sandwiches

• Spread the chicken salad between your favorite bread or rolls for a filling sandwich. Add some extra greens for texture and flavor.

Stuffed Avocados

• Halve avocados and fill them with the BLT Chicken Salad for a healthy and visually appealing dish. This adds creaminess and a nutritious boost.

On Crackers

• Serve the salad on whole-grain crackers as an easy appetizer or snack. This adds a nice crunch and makes for a great finger food option.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To ensure your BLT Chicken Salad is always top-notch, consider these tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and ripe avocados elevate the taste of your salad significantly. Always choose high-quality produce for the best results.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the ranch seasoning according to your preference. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can add depth.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least an hour helps meld the flavors together, making every bite more delicious.
• Add Extra Crunch: Consider adding chopped nuts or sunflower seeds for added texture and nutrition. This can enhance the overall experience of eating the salad.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BLT Chicken Salad can create a well-rounded meal that satisfies all tastes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Coleslaw: A classic, crunchy slaw adds a tangy contrast to the creamy chicken salad. Try using a vinegar-based dressing for a lighter option.
2. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing complements the flavors of the chicken salad perfectly.
3. Fruit Salad: A fruit medley provides a sweet touch that balances out savory dishes. Use seasonal fruits for variety.
4. Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add a hint of sweetness and are an excellent source of fiber; they make for a satisfying side.
5. Vegetable Chips: Crunchy vegetable chips offer a fun alternative to traditional chips while keeping things healthy.
6. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn pairs wonderfully with chicken dishes and adds summer vibes to your meal.
7. Cucumber Slices with Hummus: Lightly seasoned cucumber slices dipped in hummus create a refreshing snack that complements any chicken salad dish.
8. Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella balls drizzled with balsamic glaze provide fresh flavors that are easy to prepare and serve.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect BLT Chicken Salad can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using dry chicken: Ensure your chicken is moist and tender. Opt for rotisserie chicken or poach your own to maintain juiciness.
• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t overlook seasoning! Adding ranch seasoning enhances flavor. Taste as you go to get it just right.
• Overmixing the ingredients: Be gentle when combining ingredients. Overmixing can make the salad mushy and less appealing.
• Not chilling before serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge helps flavors meld together. Aim for at least 1 hour of chilling time.
• Adding avocado too early: Diced avocado should be added just before serving to prevent browning. This keeps it fresh and vibrant.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• Not recommended, as ingredients may lose texture upon thawing.
• If needed, freeze without avocado and add it later.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BLT Chicken Salad.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute shredded turkey or even beef if you prefer a different protein base.

How can I make this salad lower in calories?

You can reduce the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt quantity or use low-fat versions for a lighter option.

What other vegetables can I add to my BLT Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add cucumbers, bell peppers, or celery for additional crunch and flavor.

How do I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

You can adjust seasonings or add herbs like dill or parsley. Adding nuts or seeds can also provide extra texture.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite add-ins or dressings. It’s a fantastic choice for meal prep or a quick lunch that will keep you satisfied throughout the day. Don’t hesitate to give it a try!