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BLT Chicken Salad is my favorite shortcut to a satisfying lunch whenever I crave something fresh yet hearty. Combining the best flavors of a classic BLT with creamy chicken salad, this dish packs bold flavors and a great mix of textures into every bite.
Ever since I tossed this together on a whim for a quick work from home lunch it has become my go to for easy meal prep. Bacon lovers at my house are also happy to eat leftovers straight from the bowl.
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: adds protein and body using rotisserie or homemade poached chicken keeps things juicy
- Bacon: brings smoky flavor and crunchy texture buy a good thick cut for crisp results
- Cherry tomatoes: offer bursts of sweetness choose firm ripe tomatoes for the best taste
- Red onion: gives sharp bite and a little color use only half for balance
- Celery: provides a classic crunch and freshness pick firm pale green stalks
- Mayonnaise: makes it creamy I like light mayo to cut richness without losing flavor
- Lemon juice: brightens and lifts the dressing opt for fresh squeezed
- Salt: brings everything together start with less and adjust at the end
- Garlic powder: tones up savory flavor without being overpowering
- Onion powder: doubles down on the sweet tangy notes
- Black pepper: adds a gentle heat crack it fresh for best results
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Chop and Combine:
- Dice the cooked chicken into small bite sized pieces for even texture. Place chicken in a large bowl. Add crisped diced bacon chopped cherry tomatoes finely diced red onion and celery. Toss everything gently to distribute.
- Mix the Dressing:
- In a separate small bowl whisk together mayonnaise lemon juice salt garlic powder onion powder and black pepper until perfectly smooth. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed for balance.
- Dress the Salad:
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and veggie mixture. Stir thoroughly to coat every bit so no dry spots remain. The dressing should cling lightly but not pool at the bottom.
- Serve or Store:
- Spoon into bowls or onto sandwich bread and serve right away. If making ahead keep the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. If sitting at room temperature longer than two hours discard leftovers for safety.
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I always keep extra bacon on hand just for this recipe because nothing tops that salty crunch. The first time I made this salad my husband ate half the bowl before dinner and now insists it is the official weekend lunch. Those happy memories make it special every time.
Storage Tips
Store BLT Chicken Salad in a sealed container in the fridge for up to five days. If packing for lunch keep a cold pack in your bag. If the salad sits out for more than two hours play it safe and toss leftovers.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap rotisserie chicken for baked or poached breasts if you prefer. Greek yogurt or half light sour cream can replace part of the mayonnaise for extra tang. Use turkey bacon for a lighter twist or skip bacon completely for a vegetarian version with chopped avocado.
Serving Suggestions
Pile this salad onto crisp romaine leaves for a low carb wrap or scoop onto toasted bread for a hearty sandwich. I love adding a little extra tomato on top and serving with pickle spears on the side. Also works great stuffed into pitas or rolled in tortillas.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well for convenience and adds flavor. Just shred or chop before mixing.
- → How do I keep the bacon crispy?
Let the bacon cool completely before adding to the salad. Mix in just before serving for maximum crunch.
- → Is it possible to prepare in advance?
Absolutely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Add bacon and dressing just before serving if preferred.
- → Can I make this lighter?
You can use light mayonnaise and lean chicken breast to reduce calories and fat without sacrificing flavor.
- → What are the best serving suggestions?
Enjoy over leafy greens, as a sandwich, stuffed in pita, or in lettuce cups for a low-carb option.