BLT Chicken Salad
Why Make This Recipe
BLT Chicken Salad combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, and tomato—with tender chicken, making it a delightful and satisfying meal. It’s super easy to throw together and is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, and you can customize it to suit your taste!
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
- 8 strips bacon (chopped, center cut)
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or you can skip and use all mayonnaise)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
- 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
- 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
- 1 avocado (diced)
Directions:
- Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt, then whisk in the seasonings.
- Add the chicken, bacon, and green onions into the bowl. Mix well until it’s all combined.
- Add in the diced tomatoes and mix again to incorporate.
- Once it’s all mixed together, taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Add in the diced avocado once you are ready to serve and gently toss into the desired portion of chicken salad (or you can leave them in a single layer on top).
- Place the salad into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad
You can serve BLT Chicken Salad on a bed of lettuce for a fresh touch, or enjoy it in a wrap or sandwich. It also makes a great filling for stuffed tomatoes, or you can serve it in bowls alongside some crunchy crackers.
How to Store BLT Chicken Salad
Store any leftover BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It can last for up to three days. Just make sure to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and avoiding browning.
Tips to Make BLT Chicken Salad
- For extra flavor, try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some chopped herbs like basil or parsley.
- Use your favorite ranch seasoning for a more personalized taste.
- Feel free to substitute grilled chicken for the rotisserie chicken for a healthier version.
Variation
You can easily modify this recipe by adding other ingredients like diced cucumber for crunch or some shredded cheese for added richness.
FAQs
Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use canned chicken. Just make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.
Is it okay to make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit in the fridge for an hour or more helps the flavors meld together. Just remember to add the avocado just before serving.
Can I make this salad without bacon?
Yes! You can either omit the bacon or substitute it with crispy tofu or another protein for a vegetarian option.
