Name: BLT Chicken Salad: Quick, Low-Carb Delight for Any Day
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped; using rotisserie chicken saves time!); 1 pound bacon (diced and cooked until crisp); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half); 0.5 small red onion (diced finely; opt for green onions if preferred); 2 stalks celery (diced); 0.5 cup mayonnaise (light version used; substitute with Greek yogurt if desired); 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for brightness); 0.5 teaspoon salt (to taste); 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.5 teaspoon onion powder; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

As I stirred together the ingredients for this BLT Chicken Salad, the tantalizing aroma of crispy bacon wafted through my kitchen, instantly making my mouth water. This easy, low-carb recipe melds the beloved flavor of a classic BLT with the wholesome heartiness of chicken salad, making it perfect for quick lunches or delightful picnics. With its simple prep and vibrant ingredients, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your home-cooking repertoire. Imagine serving this creamy, crunchy blend of tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and satisfying bacon on a sunny afternoon—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Are you ready to take your salad game to new heights?

Why is BLT Chicken Salad a Must-Try?

Incredible Flavor Fusion: This recipe brilliantly merges the classic BLT taste with the satisfaction of chicken salad, creating a deliciously savory dish.

Low-Carb Bliss: Enjoy all the flavors without the carbs, making it a perfect choice for those on a low-carb diet.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have a mouthwatering meal ready in a flash—ideal for busy days or spontaneous picnics.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone from picky eaters to gourmet chefs will love this delightful blend of textures and flavors.

Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time for quick lunches throughout the week; it stores beautifully for 3-5 days!

Customizable Fun: Whether you add avocado for creaminess or sub Greek yogurt for mayo, this salad is versatile enough to suit all preferences. Try it today and elevate your lunch game!

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cooked Chicken – 3 cups, chopped; this forms the protein base, and using rotisserie chicken saves time!
• Bacon – 1 pound, diced and cooked until crisp; the key to a satisfying crunch and smoky flavor in your BLT Chicken Salad.
• Cherry Tomatoes – 1 cup, cut in half; for a burst of freshness and juiciness—so much more vibrant than grapes!
• Red Onion – ½ small, diced finely; adds a delightful sharpness; opt for green onions if you prefer a milder taste.
• Celery – 2 stalks, diced; brings that quintessential crunch and lightness to the mix.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise – ½ cup (light version used); acts as a creamy binder; substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter take.
• Lemon Juice – 1 tablespoon; brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon, to taste; essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic Powder – ½ teaspoon; introduces an aromatic depth that complements the other ingredients.
• Onion Powder – ½ teaspoon; rounds out the onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
• Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon; provides a touch of mild heat and seasoning to elevate the taste.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by assembling all your ingredients on the countertop. You’ll need 3 cups of chopped cooked chicken, 1 pound of diced and crispy bacon, a cup of halved cherry tomatoes, a finely diced red onion, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and keep your kitchen organized, ensuring a fun experience while making this flavorful BLT Chicken Salad.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon for about 8–10 minutes until it turns golden brown and crispy. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning. Once crispy, drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, allowing it to cool while the remaining ingredients are prepared. This ensures maximum crunch in your salad!

Step 3: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cooled crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and diced celery. Stir gently, ensuring all ingredients are evenly distributed. This colorful mix blends the savory and fresh flavors crucial for your BLT Chicken Salad, setting the stage for a delightful dining experience.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring that the flavors meld. This creamy dressing will be the perfect complement to the fresh ingredients in your salad.

Step 5: Combine and Coat
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the large bowl. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to carefully mix everything together, ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing. This step is essential for blending the classic flavors of the BLT Chicken Salad and making every bite taste delicious and satisfying.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Once combined, take a moment to taste the salad and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a little more salt or a dash of pepper for an extra flavor boost. This is your chance to personalize the BLT Chicken Salad to your liking, ensuring that it’s perfectly seasoned for your palate.

Step 7: Serve or Store
You can serve the BLT Chicken Salad immediately for a fresh meal or refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3–5 days. Allowing it to chill for about 30 minutes before serving can enhance the flavors as they meld. Whether you enjoy it right away or save it for later, this dish is a trusty companion for quick lunches or picnics!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Fridge: Keep your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. This ensures it remains fresh and flavorful for your quick meals throughout the week.

Freezer: While not recommended for freezing due to the potential for texture changes (especially with the lettuce and dressing), you can freeze the chicken and bacon separately for later use.

Reheating: If you’ve prepared this salad ahead of time and it’s been stored in the fridge, give it a good stir and taste before serving. You may want to add a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors after refrigeration.

Serving Tip: Always serve fresh ingredients, like lettuce, separately. Add them just before serving to maintain the salad’s crispness and overall appeal!

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Bacon Precision: Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy. This maintains a satisfying crunch in your salad and prevents sogginess.
Chicken Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm your chicken has reached 165°F. This ensures a safe and delicious BLT Chicken Salad.
Flavor Development: Let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. This enhances the melding of flavors for an even tastier experience.
Texture Balance: To keep your salad fresh and crunchy, add ingredients like celery and lettuce just before serving. This prevents them from wilting prematurely.
Dressing Customization: Feel free to adjust the mayonnaise and lemon juice to your taste. Experiment with Greek yogurt for a lighter twist on your creamy dressing.

Make Ahead Options

These BLT Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for busy home cooks! You can chop the cooked chicken, dice the celery, and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance—store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The dressing can also be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, ensuring that the flavors meld for a well-seasoned result. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the salad ingredients with the dressing and give it a gentle toss. This way, you can enjoy a delicious, low-carb meal in minutes without compromising on quality!

BLT Chicken Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with your BLT Chicken Salad by incorporating these delicious variations—you might just find a new favorite!

Dairy-Free: Swap out the mayonnaise for avocado or a dairy-free dressing to make this salad suitable for dairy-free diets. The creaminess of avocado adds a unique twist.
Full of Flavor: Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A sprinkle of fresh herbs can take your salad to new heights.
Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. This brightens the salad, creating a savory kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy dressing.
Crunchy Boost: Mix in toasted walnuts or almonds for added texture and heartiness. The satisfying crunch complements the tender chicken and crispy bacon wonderfully.
Lettuce Wraps: Instead of serving on a plate, serve your salad in large lettuce leaves for a fun and low-carb meal. This transforms it into a gut-friendly wrap full of refreshing crunch.
Tomato Twist: Experiment with sun-dried tomatoes or roasted cherry tomatoes for a deeper flavor profile. This addition will lend a sweet bite, making each mouthful even more exciting.
Low-Carb Friendly: Replace traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter option that maintains that satisfying crunch. Your waistline will thank you!
Simple Sub: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangy, protein-packed twist that keeps it light yet creamy. It will make the dish even healthier, without sacrificing flavor.

Now you’re all set to make this BLT Chicken Salad your own! Whether you keep it classic or introduce fresh twists, it’s guaranteed to be a hit at any picnic or family gathering. Enjoy!

What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad?

When planning a meal to accompany this refreshing salad, consider options that enhance its crispness and creamy richness.

Crispy Garlic Bread: The crunchy texture is a delightful contrast to the creamy salad, while the garlic adds savory depth to the meal. Each bite of garlic bread can be dipped into the residual dressing left on your plate for that extra flavor kick.
Creamy Avocado Slices: Adding slices of ripe avocado not only boosts the nutritional value but also introduces a velvety creaminess, complementing the salad’s crunch. The smooth texture of avocado pairs beautifully with the savory elements, enriching every mouthful.
Zesty Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots can provide a refreshing crunch while balancing the flavors of the salad. Its subtle sweetness and crunch can liven up your plate, making it an excellent sidekick to the BLT Chicken Salad.
Fruit Salad Medley: A vibrant fruit salad with mixed berries or citrus fruits adds a refreshing sweetness that cleanses the palate. The natural sugars and juiciness harmonize well, making each bite a delightful experience.
Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio can elevate your meal, perfectly complementing the flavors of the salad. The crisp acidity of the wine enhances the salad’s zesty notes and offers a delightful pairing.
Potato Wedges: Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs and spices provide a satisfying crunch. The rustic texture and savory flavors can round out your meal while keeping it casual.

With these delightful pairings, you can create a well-rounded dining experience that highlights the crisp, creamy magic of your BLT Chicken Salad!

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of cooked chicken works best in a BLT Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken is my favorite time-saver. It’s already perfectly cooked and seasoned, making your prep super convenient. If you prefer, freshly cooked chicken breasts work well, too—just make sure they’re diced and cool before combining!

How do I store leftover BLT Chicken Salad?
To keep your BLT Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3-5 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving, as some ingredients may settle. If you’ve left it out for more than 2 hours, it’s best to discard any leftovers.

Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
Not the salad itself, but you sure can freeze cooked chicken and bacon separately! If you know you won’t use them within a few days, place them in airtight containers or freezer bags. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use them, just thaw them in the fridge overnight then mix them fresh into your salad ingredients!

What should I do if my salad ingredients start to wilt?
To prevent wilting, especially with ingredients like lettuce or celery, consider adding them just before serving. This helps maintain their crispness. If you notice dark spots or any leftover ingredients looking limp after refrigeration, simply remove those parts and enjoy the fresher elements.

Is this salad suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Very! This BLT Chicken Salad can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring all ingredients are certified gluten-free. If you have someone with dairy allergies, feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative like avocado or non-dairy yogurt. Always double-check ingredient labels, especially for bacon, which can sometimes contain allergens.

How can I make my BLT Chicken Salad even more flavorful?
Personal touches go a long way! I recommend letting the salad chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you might try adding more of your favorite herbs like parsley or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra layer of flavor. The more you experiment, the more you’ll discover your perfect version of this classic dish!