BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

The BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is a refreshing and satisfying dish that takes the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich and transforms them into a vibrant salad experience. Combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crisp greens, all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing, this salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. It’s a delightful way to enjoy familiar ingredients with a fresh twist that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simple, fresh, and flavorful ingredients come together in this recipe to create a salad that’s both colorful and delicious. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s adding texture, zest, or creaminess to the final dish.

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced: Provides the hearty, protein-packed base that makes this salad satisfying and filling.
• 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled: Adds a smoky crunch that perfectly complements the fresh veggies.
• 1 medium tomato, diced: Brings juicy sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the bowl.
• 4 cups mixed salad greens: Offers a crisp, leafy foundation to balance the richer ingredients.
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Adds a sharp, tangy bite that cuts through the creaminess.
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Brings a mild, cheesy depth to the salad.
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Helps create a creamy dressing that clings beautifully to the ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons ranch dressing: Adds herbaceous flavor and a zesty kick to the dressing.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Smooths out the dressing and adds a rich mouthfeel.
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Introduces a tangy sweetness that balances the creaminess perfectly.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors and ties everything together.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients

Start by making sure you have all the ingredients on hand, and prepare them as needed. Dice your cooked chicken breast and tomato, crumble your crispy bacon, and thinly slice the red onion. Having everything prepped will make assembling the salad a breeze.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise and ranch dressing until smooth. This creamy base is what gives the salad its deliciously rich personality.

Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar

Pour in the olive oil and balsamic vinegar, then mix well. These ingredients bring balance to the dressing, blending creaminess with a bright, tangy finish.

Step 4: Season the Dressing

Sprinkle in black pepper and salt, then stir thoroughly. Seasoning the dressing well ensures every bite is perfectly flavorful.

Step 5: Combine the Salad Ingredients

In a large bowl, toss together the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, diced tomato, and sliced red onion. These layers of protein and veggies create a wonderful blend of textures and tastes.

Step 6: Add Salad Greens

Top the mixture with the fresh mixed salad greens. These add a crisp, refreshing element that is essential to the salad’s bright character.

Step 7: Dress the Salad

Pour the prepared dressing evenly over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together to ensure every bite gets coated with that luscious dressing.

Step 8: Finish with Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and give the salad one final gentle toss. The cheese melts slightly into the warm salad components, adding extra depth of flavor.

Step 9: Taste and Adjust

Give your salad a quick taste. If it needs a little more seasoning, add salt or pepper to suit your preference.

Step 10: Serve or Chill

Serve your BLT Chicken Salad immediately for the freshest flavors, or refrigerate it for up to an hour if you prefer a nicely chilled dish.

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle additional crispy bacon bits or extra shredded cheese on top for a delightful crunch and extra richness. Fresh chopped parsley or chives can add a burst of color and a subtle herbal note that elevates the salad even further.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs wonderfully with crunchy garlic bread or warm pita wedges to scoop up every last bit. For a lighter side, consider a simple cup of fruit salad or roasted veggies to keep the meal vibrant and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your BLT Chicken Salad in individual mason jars for a picturesque picnic or grab-and-go lunch. You can also turn it into a hearty sandwich filling using a crusty baguette or wrap it in a soft tortilla for a handheld treat that’s bursting with flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep the dressing separate if you want to avoid soggy greens, then toss just before serving.

Freezing

This salad is best enjoyed fresh and does not freeze well because of the fresh greens and creamy dressing. Freezing can cause the ingredients to lose their texture and become watery upon thawing.

Reheating

Since this is a cold salad, reheating is generally not recommended. If you prefer warm chicken in your salad, consider lightly warming the chicken separately and then tossing it with the other fresh ingredients and dressing just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?

Absolutely! Leftover cooked chicken breast works perfectly in this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe. Just dice it up and toss it in—no need to cook again.

Is there a way to make this salad vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken and bacon, or substitute with plant-based alternatives like tempeh bacon or grilled tofu for that smoky, savory touch.

Can I substitute the ranch dressing with something else?

Feel free to swap the ranch for Greek yogurt or a light vinaigrette if you want a lighter dressing, but keep in mind that it will change the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make this salad gluten-free?

This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your mayonnaise and ranch dressing are certified gluten-free. Always double-check the labels to be safe.

What is the best way to crisp up bacon for this salad?

For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown, or bake it in the oven on a foil-lined tray at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through for even crispiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the BLT Chicken Salad Recipe that combines comfort and freshness in every bite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick lunch or sharing it with friends at a get-together, this salad feels like a warm hug on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it one of your new favorites too!

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