The sizzle of crispy bacon is the ultimate siren call, especially when it tempts you into creating a light yet hearty meal. Enter my easy BLT Chicken Salad—a delectable twist on your favorite classic that redefines lunchtime with all the familiar comforts and none of the fuss. This healthy salad is not just a beautiful medley of tender chicken, crunchy bacon, and fresh veggies; it’s also a meal prep dream come true. You can whip it up in a flash, enjoy it as a refreshing low-carb lunch, and savor every bite throughout the week. Ready to indulge? Let’s dive into the details of this simple, satisfying recipe that proves you can enjoy all your favorites—guilt-free!
Why is this BLT Chicken Salad a must-try?
Convenience: This salad is perfect for meal prep, making your weeknights stress-free.
Fresh Ingredients: Enjoy the crunch of bacon and the burst of juicy tomatoes paired with creamy avocado.
Healthier Twist: Greek yogurt takes center stage, swapping out traditional mayo for a lighter, protein-packed base.
Versatile Options: Easily customize by swapping bacon for turkey or adding greens like spinach for extra nutrients.
Crowd-Pleaser: A hit among family and friends, this recipe guarantees rave reviews at any gathering!
BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients
For the Salad
• Rotisserie Chicken – Provides protein and convenience; choose seasoned varieties for extra flavor.
• Bacon – Adds crunch and savory depth; use extra crispy bits for better texture.
• Greek Yogurt – Acts as a creamy base and a healthier substitute for mayo; it keeps the salad light.
• Mayonnaise – Enhances creaminess; can use light mayo or a vegan alternative for lower calories.
• Green Onions – Contribute freshness and a mild onion flavor; substitute with chives if necessary.
• Diced Tomatoes – Offer bursts of juiciness and vibrant color; for a fresher taste, keep separate until serving.
• Avocado – Adds richness and creaminess; add fresh just before serving to prevent browning.
• Seasonings (e.g., salt, pepper) – Enhance overall flavor profile according to taste preferences; always adjust to ensure the best BLT Chicken Salad experience!
Optional Toppings
• Lettuce Cups – Great for a low-carb option; they add a refreshing crunch.
• Cheese – Incorporate small pieces of cheese for extra flavor; choose your favorite type for customization.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad
Step 1: Whisk the Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of Greek yogurt with ¼ cup of mayonnaise. Whisk together until the mixture is smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes. Look for a unified, velvety texture that signals the base is ready. This delightful blend of Greek yogurt and mayo will provide the creamy foundation for your BLT Chicken Salad.
Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, sprinkle in your preferred seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to taste. Whisk the mixture again for another minute, ensuring that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the dressing. You want to achieve a balanced flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of the BLT Chicken Salad.
Step 3: Incorporate Chicken and Bacon
Now, fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken along with 6 strips of crispy bacon, crumbled into smaller pieces. Use a spatula to gently toss the chicken and bacon with the creamy base, ensuring every bite gets the rich flavor. This should take about 2-3 minutes, as you want to thoroughly coat every piece.
Step 4: Mix in Green Onions
Chop 2-3 green onions and add them to the bowl, folding them into the salad mixture. The green onions will lend a fresh, mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste. Continue to gently toss for an additional minute, looking for a vibrant mix of colors and textures throughout the salad.
Step 5: Add Diced Tomatoes
Carefully incorporate 1 cup of diced tomatoes into the mixture. Be cautious not to over-mix since you want the tomatoes to maintain their shape and provide bursts of juiciness. This step adds freshness to your BLT Chicken Salad, enhancing both flavor and visual appeal in the bowl.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Now that everything is combined, taste your salad and adjust seasonings as needed. If you find the flavor lacking, sprinkle in more salt, pepper, or even a dash of your preferred seasoning. This final tasting ensures that the BLT Chicken Salad has a perfect flavor just for you.
Step 7: Add Avocado at Serving
As the last step before serving, dice 1 avocado and carefully fold it into the salad mixture. Ensure you do this gently so that the avocado pieces retain their shape and creaminess. To prevent browning, it’s best to add the avocado just before you’re ready to enjoy your beautiful BLT Chicken Salad.
Step 8: Chill and Serve
Transfer the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. This chilling time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more harmonious dish. When ready, serve your delicious BLT Chicken Salad in lettuce cups or any style you prefer, savoring the delightful combination of ingredients!
How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad
Fridge: Keep your prepared BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. To maintain freshness, store diced tomatoes and avocado separately.
Freezer: While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and bacon mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before adding fresh ingredients like avocado.
Reheating: If you prefer a warm salad, microwave the chicken and bacon mixture for 1-2 minutes, then mix in fresh veggies. Avoid reheating the entire salad to maintain the quality of the ingredients.
Meal Prep Tips: For the best flavor, prepare the salad a few hours in advance or overnight to allow all the flavors to meld together before serving.
Make Ahead Options
These BLT Chicken Salad are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during hectic weekdays! You can easily prepare the creamy base with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise up to 24 hours in advance; store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. Additionally, chop the green onions and dice the tomatoes a day ahead, but keep the tomatoes separate until serving to prevent sogginess. For optimal freshness, add the avocado just before you enjoy your salad. This way, you can simply combine all the components when you’re ready to eat, allowing you to savor a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Easy BLT Chicken Salad?
Imagine a colorful, balanced spread that complements the creamy, savory goodness of your chicken salad perfectly while elevating your entire meal experience.
-
Toasted Sourdough Bread: The crispy, warm texture of toasted bread adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite feel more indulgent alongside the salad.
-
Crisp Lettuce Cups: Switch things up and serve your BLT Chicken Salad in crisp lettuce leaves for a refreshing, low-carb option that highlights its flavors beautifully.
-
Pickle Spears: The tartness of pickles cuts through the richness of the salad, adding a delightful contrast that tantalizes the taste buds.
-
Crunchy Cucumber Slices: Enjoy the cool, crunchy bites of cucumber to cleanse your palate and balance the savory elements in your meal.
-
Herbed Quinoa: Light and fluffy, quinoa tossed with fresh herbs adds a nutty flavor and extra nutrients, making it a wholesome sidekick.
-
Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a hint of sweetness and a comforting texture, creating a hearty pairing that satisfies hunger.
-
Refreshing Iced Tea: A cool glass of iced tea brings a refreshing note, complementing the flavors and enhancing the overall dining experience.
-
Fruit Salad: A vibrant fruit medley provides a sweet contrast, offering both health benefits and a pop of color to your table setting.
-
Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, indulge in a creamy yet guilt-free chocolate mousse made from avocados, echoing the creaminess of your salad in a fun, decadent treat.
Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad
-
Freshness Matters: Keep avocado and tomatoes separate until serving to prevent browning and mushiness in your meal prep.
-
Chicken Choices: For a richer texture, mix both white and dark meat from your rotisserie chicken, and shred it while it’s still warm for easier handling.
-
Crispy Bacon: To preserve the crunch, pack crispy bacon bits in a separate compartment of your meal prep containers until you’re ready to eat.
-
Seasoning Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to taste and adjust seasonings! Adding a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper can enhance your BLT Chicken Salad significantly.
-
Flavor Pairings: Experiment with your favorite herbs or spices in the dressing for a personal touch, ensuring your salad stays fresh and exciting throughout the week.
-
Make Ahead Wisdom: This salad is best enjoyed within 3-4 days. Store each component separately if possible to maintain peak freshness.
BLT Chicken Salad Variations
Embrace your culinary creativity and customize this delightful salad to suit your taste buds!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon to enjoy a leaner version without sacrificing the crunch.
- Greens Galore: Experiment with different greens, like spinach or arugula, for an added nutrient boost and unique flavor profile.
- Cheese Lover’s Delight: Sprinkle in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for a creamy contrast that takes your salad to the next level.
- Add a Twist: Incorporate sliced apples or grapes for a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory notes.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to elevate the heat levels and excite your taste buds.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like dill or cilantro to the dressing for a burst of freshness that sings with each bite.
- Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon or lime juice not only brightens up the salad but also enhances the flavors brilliantly!
- Low-Carb Option: Keep it keto-friendly by omitting the tomatoes and avocado and serving in lettuce cups for a refreshing, crunchy bite.
For more meal prep inspiration, check out my delicious Grilled Chicken Sweet or the flavorful Honey Pepper Chicken. Each recipe offers unique twists that are sure to impress!
BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of rotisserie chicken should I use?
I recommend picking a rotisserie chicken that’s well-seasoned for extra flavor. The convenience of pre-cooked chicken saves time, but you can also use homemade shredded chicken if you prefer. Just make sure it’s not too dry!
How should I store the BLT Chicken Salad?
Store your prepared BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge, where it will last for up to 3-4 days. For optimal freshness, keep the diced tomatoes and avocado separate until you’re ready to serve, preventing browning and mushiness.
Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the chicken and bacon mixture without the veggies for up to 3 months. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then mix in fresh ingredients like tomatoes and avocado just before serving.
What’s the best way to prevent the avocado from browning?
To keep avocado fresh, add it to the BLT Chicken Salad just before serving. After cutting it, a squeeze of lemon or lime juice can help minimize browning if that’s a concern. It’s all about timing to keep that beautiful green color!
What if my salad is too bland?
If your BLT Chicken Salad lacks flavor, don’t hesitate to taste and adjust as needed. Add a pinch more salt, a dash of pepper, or even a sprinkle of your favorite herbs. A touch of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully!
Can this salad be made low-carb?
Absolutely! For a low-carb variant, serve the BLT Chicken Salad in lettuce cups instead of bread. You can also skip or limit the mayonnaise and bacon to keep it lighter while still enjoying all those delicious flavors.
Savory BLT Chicken Salad: The Ultimate Meal Prep Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of Greek yogurt with ¼ cup of mayonnaise. Whisk together until smooth and creamy, about 1-2 minutes.
- Sprinkle in your preferred seasonings, such as salt and pepper, to taste. Whisk the mixture for another minute.
- Fold in 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken and 6 strips of crumbled bacon. Toss gently to coat.
- Chop 2-3 green onions and add them to the bowl, gently folding into the mixture.
- Incorporate 1 cup of diced tomatoes carefully, making sure they maintain their shape.
- Taste your salad and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Dice 1 avocado and fold it into the salad gently.
- Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving. Serve in lettuce cups or as desired.
Leave a Reply