BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic chicken salad that everyone loves. This easy recipe is perfect for a low-carb lunch or a light dinner, making it suitable for various occasions, from family gatherings to meal prep. Enjoy the combination of smoky bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing that sets this salad apart from the rest.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of bacon, chicken, and fresh vegetables creates a delicious taste sensation that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course, on top of greens, or even in a sandwich for an easy lunch.
- Low Carb Delight: With just 3 grams of carbs per serving, this salad fits perfectly into low-carb diets.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days for easy meals throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare your BLT Chicken Salad.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
- Whisk: This tool helps you mix the dressing evenly, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Salad
- 3 cups cooked chicken
- 1 pound bacon (diced and cooked until crisp)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half)
- 1/2 small red onion (diced small)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (I used light)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
Step 1: Combine Main Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and celery. Gently stir until well mixed.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl:
1. Whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt or pepper as needed.
Step 3: Mix Dressing with Salad
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are coated evenly.
Step 4: Serve and Store
Serve your BLT Chicken Salad immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Remember to discard any leftovers if they have been out for more than 2 hours.
Enjoy this refreshing and flavorful BLT Chicken Salad at your next meal!
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad
BLT Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a quick lunch or a filling dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
In a Lettuce Wrap
- Crisp lettuce leaves make a perfect low-carb alternative to bread. Simply spoon the salad into the leaves and enjoy!
On Whole Grain Bread
- For a heartier option, serve the salad on whole grain bread. This adds fiber and complements the flavors nicely.
With Crackers
- Pair your BLT Chicken Salad with whole-grain crackers for a crunchy texture. This makes for a great snack or appetizer.
Stuffed in Avocado Halves
- For a keto-friendly choice, scoop out avocado halves and fill them with BLT Chicken Salad. The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the salad.
Over Mixed Greens
- Serve the salad over a bed of mixed greens for added nutrition. Drizzling with balsamic vinaigrette enhances the flavor even more.
As a Dip
- Use your BLT Chicken Salad as a dip for veggies or pita chips. It’s great for parties or casual gatherings!
How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad
To make your BLT Chicken Salad even better, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and crisp vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
- Customize Your Seasoning – Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference for optimal flavor.
- Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Dressings – Try adding Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Add Extra Veggies – Consider including cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad
Pairing side dishes with your BLT Chicken Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and balances savory flavors.
- Coleslaw – Crunchy coleslaw provides an extra layer of texture and complements the salad nicely.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Baked sweet potato fries offer a satisfying crunch while keeping it healthy.
- Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing keeps it fresh and light.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled corn adds sweetness and is perfect during summer cookouts.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of roasted vegetables can bring warmth and earthiness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your salad turns out perfect every time.
- Ignoring the chicken quality: Use freshly cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken for the best flavor and texture. Avoid using dry or overcooked chicken as it can make the salad bland.
- Overdressing the salad: It’s tempting to add lots of dressing, but too much can overpower the other flavors. Start with a small amount, mix well, and add more if needed.
- Not chilling before serving: Allowing the salad to chill enhances its flavor as the ingredients meld together. Serve immediately for freshness or chill for at least 30 minutes.
- Using stale bacon: Cook your bacon until crisp for a crunchy texture. Soggy bacon can ruin the overall experience of the salad.
- Skipping seasoning adjustments: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference to enhance all flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the fridge for 3 to 5 days.
Freezing BLT Chicken Salad
- Freezing is not recommended due to mayonnaise and texture changes.
- If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container and consume within one month.
Reheating BLT Chicken Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad on a baking sheet and heat for 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second increments until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, gently warm while stirring until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making BLT Chicken Salad that may help you get started.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for BLT Chicken Salad?
Yes! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe and adds great flavor.
How can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?
You can add ingredients like avocado, cheese, or different herbs to personalize your salad.
Is BLT Chicken Salad low-carb?
Yes, this recipe is low-carb, making it suitable for keto diets or low-carb meals.
What can I serve with my BLT Chicken Salad?
This salad pairs well with lettuce wraps or fresh vegetables for a light meal.
Final Thoughts
BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or serve it in various ways. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or a side dish, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try and discover how delightful this twist on classic chicken salad can be!
BLT Chicken Salad
BLT Chicken Salad is a scrumptious take on the classic chicken salad, combining smoky bacon, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal. This easy recipe is perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle, making it an ideal choice for lunch or light dinners. With just 10 minutes of preparation time, you can enjoy this delightful dish at family gatherings, picnics, or as part of your meal prep. Whether served in a lettuce wrap or atop whole grain bread, this salad promises a burst of flavors that will leave everyone craving more.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: None
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked chicken
- 1 pound bacon (diced and cooked until crisp)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/2 small red onion (diced)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and celery. Stir gently to mix.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir until all ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
