This Easy BLT Chicken Salad brings together juicy chicken, crunchy bacon, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes all mixed in a creamy dressing. It’s a tasty twist on the classic sandwich!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cooked Chicken: You can use any cooked chicken for this salad, whether it’s grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken for convenience. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey can work well too!
Bacon: I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a hearty crunch, but turkey bacon is a great alternative if you want a lower-fat option. Just make sure it’s nicely crispy!
Greens: Mixed salad greens add variety, but you can switch it up with just romaine or spinach, or even add arugula for a bit of peppery flavor.
Mayonnaise: If you prefer a healthier twist, Greek yogurt can substitute for half or all of the mayo. You can also use avocado for a creamy dressing that’s full of healthy fats.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor in Your Dressing?
Mixing the dressing perfectly is key to elevating your salad. The combination of mayo, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika creates a tasty, creamy blend. Here’s how to get it right:
- Whisk the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and mustard together until smooth; this helps the flavors meld quickly.
- Add smoked paprika for a nice depth. If you want a little kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- Season with salt and pepper and taste before adding it to the salad to make sure it’s just right!
Toss the dressing gently with the salad to ensure every bite is flavorful!
Easy BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach and romaine)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner on busy days. No cooking is needed for the salad itself besides the bacon!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Salad Base:
Start by taking a large salad bowl and placing the mixed greens at the bottom. This will be the foundation for your tasty salad.
2. Add Chicken:
Next, sprinkle the cooked, chopped chicken breast evenly over the greens. This adds protein and makes the salad hearty!
3. Add Veggies:
Enjoy the burst of colors by adding the halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions. Each veggie brings a fresh crunch to every bite!
4. Crumble the Bacon:
Now it’s time for the bacon! Crumble the crispy bacon slices and sprinkle them over the salad. This is what makes it a BLT salad!
5. Make the Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep whisking until it’s smooth and creamy.
6. Combine:
Pour the dressing over your salad mixture. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are nicely coated in the dressing.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve right away for the freshest taste! Enjoy your BLT chicken salad as a satisfying meal on its own or paired with some bread or crackers.
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled, roasted, or even rotisserie chicken works perfectly in this salad. Just make sure to chop or shred it before adding it to the greens!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the greens fresh, it’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time! Keep the salad components, like the chicken, bacon, and veggies, in separate containers in the fridge. Assemble the salad and add the dressing right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise?
If you’re looking for a lighter or healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. For a creamier texture, consider mixing half yogurt and half avocado. This will still give you that creamy feel without the extra calories!
