A refreshing salad that combines the classic flavors of a BLT with tender chicken, this dish is perfect for lunch or a light dinner. The combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and savory beef bacon makes for a satisfying meal that is as delightful to eat as it is to prepare. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic or serving it for guests, this salad delivers on flavor and versatility, making it a staple for any occasion.
BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A refreshing salad that combines the classic flavors of a BLT with tender chicken and crispy beef bacon.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
- 4 slices beef bacon
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine and spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the beef bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess grease, then chop into pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
- Add the diced chicken and beef bacon to the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This salad can be prepared ahead of time; keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Why you’ll love this dish
This salad brings together the best elements of a traditional BLT: the hearty crunch from crisp veggies, the umami-rich flavor of beef bacon, and the satisfying protein from chicken. It’s a wonderfully vibrant dish that can brighten up any meal.
“This salad reinvented my lunch routine—so fresh and filling!”
With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s easy to see why this recipe is a favorite among families and friends. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, making it a convenient choice for busy days.
How it comes together
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Start by cooking the chicken until it’s perfectly tender, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Meanwhile, the beef bacon gets crispy in the skillet, adding a delightful crunch. Finally, toss everything together with your fresh greens, tomatoes, and avocado, all drizzled with a light dressing that ties it all together beautifully.
Prep Time: 15 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total Time: 35 min
What you’ll need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 4 slices beef bacon
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine and spinach)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish
Step-by-step instructions
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the beef bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel to drain excess grease, then chop into pieces.
- In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, and red onion.
- In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create a dressing.
- Add the diced chicken and beef bacon to the salad. Drizzle with the dressing and gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Best ways to enjoy it
This salad is delightful on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light soup. Serve it alongside a chilled glass of lemonade for a perfect summer meal, or enjoy it as a filling wrap by tossing the salad into a tortilla.
Storage and reheating tips
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness of the ingredients, it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving. For best quality, avoid freezing this dish as vegetables may become soggy.
Helpful cooking tips
To enhance the flavor of your salad, consider marinating the diced chicken in a simple lemon and herb mixture for an hour before cooking. Always ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked chicken can save you preparation time without sacrificing taste.
Creative twists
Feel free to customize this salad to suit your taste. Swap the beef bacon for turkey bacon or even a plant-based alternative. Toss in some crumbled feta or shredded cheese for added creaminess. You could also experiment with adding roasted vegetables or a sprinkle of nuts for an extra crunch.
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Just keep the dressing separate and combine everything right before you plan to serve it to maintain freshness.
What type of chicken should I use?
Rotisserie chicken is fantastic for convenience, but you can bake or grill chicken breasts as well. Just ensure they’re well-seasoned to enhance the overall flavor.
How can I adjust the spices?
Feel free to adjust the salt, pepper, or dressing ingredients to fit your flavor preferences. A dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of paprika can add a nice kick if that’s what you enjoy!