This tasty BLT Chicken Salad mixes tender chicken with crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and juicy tomatoes. It’s light, crunchy, and super satisfying!
I love how easy it is to whip up. Just toss everything together, and you have a delicious meal ready in no time! Great for lunch or a picnic with friends! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: I usually use rotisserie chicken for this salad since it saves time. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or roast any chicken parts you have. If you’re vegetarian, consider chickpeas or tofu for protein.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. You could swap it for turkey bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option. For a vegetarian twist, use crispy tempeh or smoked sunflower seeds.
Cherry Tomatoes: These small tomatoes are sweet and juicy, enhancing the salad’s flavor. If they aren’t available, grape tomatoes or even diced regular tomatoes work well. You can also use roasted tomatoes for a different taste.
Green Onions: They provide a mild onion flavor. If you don’t have green onions, you can use finely chopped red or yellow onions. Just remember they are stronger, so use less!
Mayonnaise: I love using regular or low-fat mayo, but you can substitute Greek yogurt for a creamier and healthier option. For vegan needs, opt for plant-based mayonnaise.
How Can I Ensure the Dressing Is Just Right?
Getting the dressing perfect is key to this salad. Here’s how to do it:
- In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
- Taste the dressing and add salt and pepper gradually to find the right flavor balance.
- If you want a tangier taste, a little more lemon juice can brighten the salad. Just remember to add it slowly!
The dressing should coat the salad lightly without being overpowering, so feel free to adjust as you mix it all together.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a busy day or when you need a tasty meal in a hurry. Enjoy the fresh flavors without spending too much time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir so that everything is nicely mixed together.
2. Make the Dressing:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This dressing adds a delicious flavor to the salad!
3. Mix Everything Together:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold it all together. Make sure everything is well coated in that yummy dressing. Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if you want—add a little more salt or pepper if needed.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad immediately as is or on top of fresh lettuce leaves for an extra crunch! Enjoy your refreshing BLT Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken (like rotisserie chicken) is perfect for this recipe. Just make sure it’s shredded or diced into bite-sized pieces. It saves time and adds great flavor!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option or have dietary restrictions, you can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. This will give the salad a creamy texture with added protein. Just be mindful that it might be a bit tangier than traditional mayo.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, consider storing the dressing separately if you can, and mix it in just before serving. This helps maintain the texture of the salad!
