This Easy BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for a quick lunch! It combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes all mixed into a tasty bowl of goodness.
Honestly, it’s like a classic sandwich in a salad form—no bread needed! I love to top it with a dollop of mayo for extra creaminess. Yum! 🍗🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Cooked chicken breast gives great protein. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works wonders! It adds a nice flavor too.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds crunch. Turkey bacon or even veggie bacon can be good substitutes for a lighter option.
Mixed Salad Greens: I like a mix for texture and flavor. If you only have one type of lettuce, that’s perfectly fine! Spinach or arugula can also add great taste.
Cherry Tomatoes: These are sweet and juicy. You can swap them with regular tomatoes, but make sure to dice them small. Canned diced tomatoes can also work in a pinch.
Mayonnaise: This gives creaminess to our salad. Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative and tastes great when mixed with a bit of Dijon mustard.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Juicy and Tender?
Getting juicy chicken can sometimes be tricky. Make sure to cook your chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside, around 165°F (75°C). Here’s a simple way to ensure it’s tender:
- Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper.
- Cook on medium heat to avoid overcooking. Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking before chopping. This keeps the juices inside.
Trust me, these little steps make a big difference in the taste and texture of your salad! Enjoy making your salad this way! 🥗
Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and butter lettuce)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Dressing Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing BLT Chicken Salad can be prepared in about 20 minutes! You’ll spend a few minutes cooking the bacon and chicken, plus mixing everything together. It’s a quick and healthy lunch solution!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it becomes nice and crispy. Once it’s done, place the bacon on paper towels to drain the excess grease. When it’s cool enough, chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, you can grill or pan-cook the chicken breasts until they are fully cooked and the juices run clear. Let the cooked chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping or shredding it into bite-sized pieces.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice (or vinegar), and smoked paprika (if you’re using it). Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper to taste. This will be your creamy dressing!
4. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, add the mixed greens as the base. Then combine the chopped chicken, crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely diced red onion, and sliced green onions in the bowl. Drizzle the dressing over the mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Now, lay the chicken salad mixture on top of the greens. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a few pieces of crispy bacon or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh and satisfying BLT Chicken Salad!
FAQ for Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use grilled, roasted, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience. Just make sure it’s cooked through before adding it to the salad.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain the freshness of the greens!
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing that still has creaminess!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, bacon, and dressing in advance, but it’s best to assemble the salad just before serving for optimal freshness. If preparing ahead, keep the greens separate until serving time.
