Embark on a flavorful adventure with every dish.

BLT Chicken Salad

BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and satisfying meal, this BLT Chicken Salad is your answer. Perfect for lunch or a quick snack, it combines tender shredded chicken with the crunch of crispy Turkey Bacon and the freshness of diced tomatoes and avocado. Tossed in a creamy dressing, this high-protein salad is not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
  • High Protein Content: Packed with protein from chicken and Turkey Bacon, it’s perfect for keeping you full.
  • Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ranch seasoning, Greek yogurt, and fresh veggies creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
  • Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or atop greens for a complete meal.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your BLT Chicken Salad efficiently, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

  • Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients easily without making a mess.
  • Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth dressing by thoroughly mixing mayonnaise and yogurt.
  • Knife: Essential for chopping vegetables and proteins quickly and safely.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

  • 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
  • 8 strips Turkey Bacon (chopped)
  • 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)

For Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt then whisk in the ranch seasoning and cracked pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Turkey Bacon

Add the shredded chicken, chopped Turkey Bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes

Gently fold in the halved grape tomatoes into the mixture. Ensure they are evenly distributed without crushing them.

Step 4: Adjust Seasonings

Taste your mixture to see if it needs more seasoning. If desired, add salt or more ranch seasoning to enhance flavors.

Step 5: Add Avocado before Serving

Just before serving, add in the diced avocado. Gently toss to incorporate or layer them on top for presentation.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your salad to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together. Enjoy your healthy meal!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

Serving BLT Chicken Salad can be both simple and creative. Whether you’re preparing a casual lunch or an elegant dinner, this salad can adapt to various occasions. Here are some delicious ways to serve it.

On a Bed of Greens

  • Serve the BLT Chicken Salad atop a fresh bed of mixed greens for a refreshing and crunchy base. This adds extra nutrients and color to your meal.

In a Wrap

  • Wrap the salad in a whole wheat or lettuce wrap for a portable option. This is perfect for lunch on-the-go or a picnic.

With Toasted Bread

  • Pair your salad with toasted whole-grain bread or croissants. This adds a hearty component, making it more filling.

As a Stuffed Avocado

  • Hollow out an avocado half and fill it with the BLT Chicken Salad. This provides a healthy fat source and looks appealing on the plate.

In Lettuce Cups

  • Use large lettuce leaves as cups for serving. It’s a fun, low-carb way to enjoy your salad and great for parties.

As an Appetizer

  • Serve small portions of the salad on cocktail spoons or in small cups as an appetizer at gatherings. This makes for an elegant presentation that impresses guests.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

Creating the perfect BLT Chicken Salad involves paying attention to texture and flavor balance. Here are some tips for achieving that ideal mix.

  • Use fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes, crisp Turkey bacon, and ripe avocados will enhance the overall taste of your salad.
  • Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture before adding avocado; adjusting salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning can elevate flavors.
  • Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
  • Add crunch: Consider tossing in nuts like walnuts or almonds for added crunch and nutrition.
  • Customize proteins: Swap out rotisserie chicken for grilled chicken or even shredded turkey if preferred.
  • Experiment with dressings: While Greek yogurt and mayonnaise work well, try different dressings like a light vinaigrette for variety.
BLT

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing sides with your BLT Chicken Salad enhances your meal experience. Here are some tasty options that complement its flavors perfectly.

  1. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch; bake them for a healthier option.
  2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a nice contrast in texture while keeping things light.
  3. Fruit Salad: Fresh fruit salad adds brightness and sweetness, balancing out the savory elements of the chicken salad.
  4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies offers additional protein and fiber, making it more filling.
  5. Roasted Veggies: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring warmth and heartiness; they pair well with the creaminess of the chicken salad.
  6. Chips and Salsa: For those who love snacks, serve tortilla chips with fresh salsa as a fun side dish option.
  7. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread complements the dish’s richness while providing delightful buttery flavors.
  8. Pickles or Olives: A small serving of pickles or olives can add just the right touch of acidity to cleanse the palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details that can enhance the flavor and texture. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

  • Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your salad before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
  • Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Cooking the Turkey Bacon too long can make it chewy. Aim for crispy but not burnt for the best texture.
  • Using unripe avocado: An unripe avocado will not blend well with your salad. Choose ripe avocados for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
  • Not chilling before serving: Serving immediately without chilling can affect the flavors. Allowing your salad to sit in the fridge for at least an hour helps meld the ingredients together.
  • Forgetting about leftovers: Leaving leftovers out too long can spoil them. Store any remaining salad in an airtight container in the fridge promptly.

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container.
  • It will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator if properly sealed.
  • Make sure to let it cool down before placing it in the fridge.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

  • Freezing is not recommended due to ingredients like avocado and Greek yogurt that do not hold up well when thawed.
  • If you must freeze, do so without avocado, and plan to add it fresh after thawing.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

  • Oven: Preheat to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Place in an oven-safe dish and heat until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
  • Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warm.
  • Stovetop: Heat in a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
BLT

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this BLT Chicken Salad healthy?

This salad is packed with protein from chicken and Greek yogurt, while using Turkey Bacon adds flavor without excessive fat.

Can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add ingredients like bell peppers or swap Turkey Bacon for regular Turkey bacon if desired.

How long does BLT Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it lasts up to 3 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This BLT Chicken Salad is great for meal prep as it holds up well and offers balanced nutrition for lunches or snacks.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for lunch or as a snack. It’s easy to prepare and versatile; feel free to customize with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a healthy meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
BLT Chicken Salad

BLT Chicken Salad


  • Author: Madison
  • Total Time: 54 minute
  • Yield: Serves approximately 4

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of our BLT Chicken Salad, a perfect combination of protein-packed shredded chicken and crispy Turkey Bacon, tossed with fresh tomatoes and creamy avocado. This satisfying salad is not only quick to prepare in just 15 minutes but is also versatile enough to suit any meal occasion. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a wrap, or atop a bed of greens, this dish will become a go-to favorite for lunch or as a nutritious snack. With its vibrant ingredients and rich dressing, each bite promises a burst of flavor while keeping you full and satisfied.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
  • 8 strips chopped Turkey Bacon
  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1/3 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
  • 1/3 cup diced green onions
  • 2/3 pint halved grape tomatoes
  • 1 diced avocado
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, ranch seasoning, and cracked pepper.
  2. Add the shredded chicken, chopped Turkey Bacon, and diced green onions. Mix until well-coated.
  3. Gently fold in grape tomatoes.
  4. Adjust seasoning if necessary before adding the avocado just before serving.
  5. Chill for at least one hour in an airtight container for optimal flavor melding.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: None
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 390
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Chill the salad before serving to enhance the taste. Feel free to customize by adding bell peppers or using regular bacon instead of Turkey Bacon.

Related Articles

π‚π‘πžπŸ 𝐚𝐦𝐞π₯𝐒𝐚

Pro Chef & Blogger

Welcome to my culinary corner, where passion meets the plate! I’m a chef with a love for creating delicious and inspiring dishes. Here, I’ll share my best recipes, tips, and tricks to help you bring a taste of magic into your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to ignite your passion for cooking. Join me on this flavorful journey and let’s make every meal memorable. Happy cooking.

Chef amelia