BLT Chicken Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic favorite, the BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that brings the beloved bacon, lettuce, and tomato tastes into a hearty salad form. Perfect as a main dish or a substantial side, this recipe is sure to impress at any gathering or to be a favorite for lunch.
With the ease of using rotisserie chicken, you can whip up this satisfying salad in no time. The creamy dressing, enhanced by the richness of bacon and the freshness of vegetables, creates a vibrant dish that melds comfort food with healthy ingredients. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, this salad can easily become a staple in your weekly meal rotation.
Why make this recipe
The BLT Chicken Salad is a wonderful option for those who love the classic flavors of a BLT but want a healthier and more filling alternative. Incorporating shredded rotisserie chicken adds a protein punch, making this dish not only satisfying but also nutritious. The combination of crisp bacon and the creamy, tangy dressing ensures that each bite is packed with flavor, appealing to those who enjoy the indulgence of classic comfort food yet desire a lighter meal solution.
In addition to its enticing taste, this salad is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it as a hearty lunch, a side at dinner, or even as a satisfying snack. It can be served over a bed of greens, in a wrap, or simply on its own. Moreover, this recipe allows for easy preparation using simple, readily available ingredients, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. The ability to adjust the ingredients according to personal preference or dietary needs only increases its appeal.
How to make BLT Chicken Salad
Creating BLT Chicken Salad is as easy as mixing the ingredients in just a few steps. Start by preparing your dressing using a blend of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise, heightened with ranch seasoning and fresh pepper. This creamy base provides the perfect backdrop for the rich flavors of bacon and chicken, ensuring a deliciously cohesive salad. Once your dressing is ready, simply fold in the shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy chopped bacon, and green onions. These foundational ingredients create a robust flavor profile that is the hallmark of this delightful dish.
Once those main components are well combined, it’s time to incorporate the fresh grape tomatoes. These juicy morsels will add a burst of flavor and a refreshing crunch to the salad. After the tomatoes are mixed in, it’s essential to taste and adjust the seasoning to fit your palate. The final touch will be the diced avocado, which can either be gently folded into the salad or carefully placed on top for a beautifully presented dish. After everything is mixed and ready, chilling the salad for at least an hour ensures that all the flavors meld together effectively, providing a more vibrant taste when served.
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. 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 into an airtight container and store in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving.
Time Breakdown
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 0 minutes
• Baking Time: 0 minutes
• Chilling Time: 1 hour
• Rising Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
How to serve BLT Chicken Salad
Serving BLT Chicken Salad can be as simple or as sophisticated as you like. This dish can be elegantly served in individual bowls for a dinner party, adding a touch of class to the table. Alternatively, for a more casual setting, you can present it in a large serving bowl for guests to help themselves. Pairing it with crisp lettuce leaves or fresh greens can create a delightful plating style, allowing guests to scoop the salad into their wraps or onto their plates as they prefer.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, you might consider serving it alongside roasted or seasoned tortilla chips. This not only adds texture but also makes for a fun, interactive dining experience. A drizzle of extra dressing on top or a sprinkle of additional bacon pieces before serving can elevate the presentation while enticing your guests even more.
How to store BLT Chicken Salad
To maintain the deliciousness of your BLT Chicken Salad, proper storage is crucial. Once prepared, transfer any leftover salad into an airtight container, ensuring it is sealed well to prevent air from spoiling the ingredients. The salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s recommended to add the avocado just before serving to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
If storing for later, you might consider separating the avocado until you’re ready to enjoy. This will not only enhance the flavor but also preserve the textural integrity of the salad. Freezing is not recommended for this dish, as the ingredients, especially the lettuce and avocado, will not retain their texture and freshness once thawed.
Tips to make BLT Chicken Salad
To elevate your BLT Chicken Salad, consider roasting the bacon until it is ultra-crispy before chopping it. This added crunch can significantly enhance the overall texture of the dish. Experimenting with different types of bacon, such as applewood smoked or peppered, can offer unique flavors that complement the salad beautifully. If you’re looking for even more flavor, adding a splash of fresh lemon juice or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing can brighten the salad while introducing a zesty kick.
If you’d like to add more vegetables, feel free to fold in ingredients like diced cucumbers or shredded carrots for more color and nutrition. Additionally, switching up the herbs can also refresh the dish; fresh dill or cilantro can provide delightful variations that cater to various tastes. Lastly, keeping the dressing on the side when serving can help preserve the crispness of the greens if you plan to serve it at a later time.
Variation
No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
• Calories: 390 kcal
• Protein: 27 g
• Carbohydrates: 12 g
• Fat: 27 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
FAQs
Q: Can I use grilled chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
A: Absolutely! Grilled chicken will add a wonderful smoky flavor and can be a healthier alternative.
Q: How long can I keep this salad in the fridge?
A: The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Be sure to add avocado just before serving.
Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time for a gathering?
A: Yes, this salad can be prepared a day in advance. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and add the avocado just before serving to maintain its freshness.
BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded) Using shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 8 strips bacon (chopped, center cut) Crispy bacon adds flavor.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt Can skip and use all mayonnaise instead.
- 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) Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 1 medium avocado (diced) Add just before serving or layer on top.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large mixing bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together the mayo and Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning and pepper.
- Add in the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped bacon, and diced green onions. Mix well until combined.
- Gently fold in the halved or quartered grape tomatoes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Add the diced avocado just before serving or layer it on top for presentation.
- Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving.
