This Easy BLT Chicken Salad combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and tomatoes for a yummy meal. It’s light, filling, and oh-so-satisfying!
Perfect for lunch or a quick dinner, it’s super simple to whip up. I like to serve it on toast or in a wrap, but honestly, it’s tasty right out of the bowl too! 🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using cooked chicken breast for a lean protein. If you have leftovers, that works great! Rotisserie chicken is another convenient option. For a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or tofu.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. Turkey bacon is a lighter alternative if you prefer. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked tempeh or skip it altogether and add another textural component, like nuts.
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add freshness. You can substitute regular tomatoes; just chop them into smaller pieces. If tomatoes aren’t your thing, try diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a different crunch.
Mixed Greens: A mix of greens keeps it interesting. You can use just romaine or spinach if that’s all you have. Kale works too, but be sure to massage it a bit beforehand to soften it.
How Do I Make the Dressing Balance in Flavor?
The dressing brings everything together in this salad, so it’s important to get it just right. A good dressing should balance creaminess, acidity, and seasoning.
- Start by mixing mayonnaise with lemon juice for tanginess.
- Add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for a mild kick; it helps to emulsify the dressing too.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste; don’t skip this, as it enhances all the flavors.
- Taste your dressing before adding it to the salad! Adjust the lemon juice or mayo if you prefer it more tangy or creamy.
With these tips, you’ll have a fantastic Easy BLT Chicken Salad that’s delicious and satisfying every time!
Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, romaine, and butter lettuce)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, with no cooking needed other than the bacon. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that you can whip up in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they are crispy. Once done, place them on paper towels to drain off excess fat, then chop them into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later.
2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper until smooth. This creamy dressing will add flavor to your salad!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture in the bowl. Toss gently to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Arrange the Greens:
Take your mixed greens and arrange them in a large salad bowl or divide them among individual serving bowls. This will be the base for your chicken salad.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Spoon the dressed chicken mixture over the greens. Then sprinkle the crispy chopped bacon on top for that delicious crunch. If you’d like, add a light dusting of smoked paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up.
7. Enjoy Your Salad!
Serve the salad immediately, enjoying it on its own or with some toasted bread or crackers. This Easy BLT Chicken Salad is fresh, creamy, and packed with the classic BLT flavors you love!
FAQ for Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken is perfect for this salad. You can also use rotisserie chicken for added flavor and convenience; just shred or dice it as needed.
How Can I Make This Salad Healthier?
To lighten up the salad, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or a low-fat mayo alternative. You can also increase the amount of veggies, like adding cucumber or bell peppers, to boost fiber without adding too many calories.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prepare the chicken and dressing the day before to save time. However, I recommend assembling the salad right before serving to keep the greens fresh and crisp. If you must prep ahead, store the greens separately to avoid wilting.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The salad may lose some crispness, so it’s best to enjoy it fresh. If you’re storing it, keep the bacon separate until you’re ready to eat for maximum crunch!
