This BLT Chicken Salad combines tasty chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. It’s a fun and filling meal that’s perfect for a warm day or a quick lunch!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: Shredded chicken is essential for this salad. Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian twist.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, you can use diced regular tomatoes or even halved grape tomatoes. Just make sure they are ripe for the best flavor.
Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon gives this salad a great crunch. Turkey bacon or even crispy tofu can work as alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version. Adding smoked paprika can mimic bacon’s flavor if needed.
Mayonnaise: Traditional choice for creaminess. You can switch this for Greek yogurt, which adds a tangy flavor and is healthier, or avocado for a creamy texture. Both will give a unique taste!
Red Onion: It adds sharpness to the salad. If red onion is too strong for your taste, use sweet onions or green onions instead. They offer a milder flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Dressing is Just Right?
The dressing is vital in tying the salad together. Creating a well-balanced dressing is key. To ensure it’s not too heavy or too tangy, start with the mayonnaise, and then carefully whisk in the Dijon mustard and lemon juice.
- Start by adding the mustard gradually, tasting as you go. It can be strong!
- Mix in the lemon juice little by little, which will brighten the flavors.
- Season with salt and pepper, and remember that the bacon will add some salt too. Keep tasting until you love it!
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Serving:
- Romaine lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious BLT Chicken Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a light lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large bowl, take your shredded chicken and add the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and finely chopped red onion. Give it all a gentle mix so the ingredients get to know each other a bit.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Add salt and pepper to taste. Keep whisking until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated with the dressing. Give it a taste, and if you think it needs a bit more seasoning, feel free to add more salt or pepper.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
For a lovely presentation, serve your chicken salad on a bed of romaine lettuce leaves. You can also use this salad in sandwiches or wraps for a tasty twist. Enjoy your fresh and flavorful BLT Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Rotisserie Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is a perfect substitute. Just shred or chop it up, and you can use it directly in this salad without any additional cooking. It adds great flavor and saves time!
What If I Don’t Have Mayonnaise?
No problem! You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier option, or use a mix of sour cream and a splash of olive oil for a creamier texture. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly as these alternatives can be tangier.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you added lettuce, it’s best to keep it separate to prevent wilting. When ready to eat, just mix in fresh lettuce for a crisp bite!
Can I Add Other Ingredients?
Definitely! This salad is very versatile. Consider adding diced avocado, chopped celery for crunch, or even some cheese for extra richness. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor and texture slightly!
