When it comes to summer salads, nothing beats the delightful crunch of a BLT Chicken Salad. Picture this: fresh lettuce, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken all tossed together in a creamy dressing that dances on your taste buds. This dish is not just food; it’s a flavor extravaganza that screams summer vibes, perfect for picnics or lazy evenings on the patio.
I remember the first time I made this for my friends during a backyard barbecue. The way their eyes lit up as they took their first bite was priceless. We laughed, shared stories, and devoured the entire bowl in record time. This salad is more than just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter and good times.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This BLT Chicken Salad combines ease of preparation with an explosion of flavors that will please anyone at your table
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser
- You can easily customize ingredients based on personal preferences or what’s available in your pantry
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
My cousin once declared this salad was “life-changing” after her first bite, proving its magic lies in its simplicity and flavor!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Crispy Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum crunch; cooking it until golden brown makes all the difference.
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Ripe Tomatoes: Choose fresh tomatoes for juiciness; heirloom varieties add stunning color and flavor.
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Fresh Lettuce: I recommend using romaine for crunch, but any leafy green will work beautifully.
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Mayonnaise: A dollop adds creaminess; consider mixing in Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
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Mustard: Use Dijon mustard to elevate the flavor profile with a tangy kick.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; don’t skip this step to boost all flavors!
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Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the whole salad and balances rich ingredients.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Cooking this scrumptious BLT Chicken Salad is as enjoyable as eating it!
Cook the Chicken: Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking them until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-7 minutes per side).
Crisp the Bacon: In a separate pan over medium-high heat, cook bacon strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease while keeping that glorious crunch intact.
Chop Fresh Veggies: Dice your ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and chop lettuce into manageable strips or leaves. Freshness adds vibrancy to every bite!
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy—a little taste test here never hurts!
Toss Everything Together: In a large bowl, add chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, cooked chicken (sliced), and crispy bacon pieces. Drizzle with dressing before gently tossing until everything is well-coated.
Serve & Enjoy!: Dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls—don’t forget to take pictures before diving in! This salad tastes even better when shared with friends or family.
Now that you’re armed with this recipe for BLT Chicken Salad, get ready to impress everyone at your next gathering!
You Must Know
- This blt chicken salad is a game-changer for summer picnics
- Its crispy bacon and fresh veggies create a delightful crunch, while the creamy dressing ties everything together beautifully
- Plus, it’s easy to whip up in minutes, making it perfect for those last-minute gatherings
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then grill or poach the chicken while cooling the bacon. Chop veggies next for an efficient assembly line.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out lettuce for spinach or add avocado for creaminess. You can also use ranch or blue cheese dressing instead of mayo for different flavors.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best taste, enjoy cold without reheating; the textures stay crispier that way.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To elevate your blt chicken salad, consider using thick-cut bacon for more flavor
- Fresh herbs like dill or parsley add a bright note too
- Always let the chicken rest before slicing to retain moisture and tenderness
Sharing this recipe always brings back memories of summer barbecues with friends, where everyone quickly devoured every last bite! It’s definitely a crowd-pleaser that sparks joy.
FAQ
What can I substitute for mayonnaise in the blt chicken salad?
Greek yogurt works great as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise while adding creaminess.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep ingredients beforehand but add dressing just before serving to maintain freshness.
How do I store leftover blt chicken salad?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge; consume within three days for best quality.
BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Elevate your summer meals with this BLT Chicken Salad, featuring a medley of fresh ingredients that combine for a delicious crunch. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and ripe tomatoes are tossed in a creamy dressing that perfectly balances flavors. Ideal for picnics or casual dining, this easy-to-make salad is sure to impress family and friends while bringing back fond summer memories.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 450g)
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon
- 2 medium ripe tomatoes, diced
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
- Grill the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill over medium heat for about 6–7 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 75°C). Let rest before slicing.
- Chop the Veggies: Dice tomatoes and chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced chicken, and crispy bacon. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Dish onto plates or bowls and enjoy immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
