Flavorful BLT Chicken Salad Recipe for All Occasions

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by deliciouscorner

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The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and you’re ready to dig into something deliciously fresh. Picture this: a cool bowl of BLT Chicken Salad filled with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, crisp lettuce, and ripe tomatoes—each bite exploding with flavor that dances on your tongue. This isn’t just any salad; it’s a celebration of summer wrapped up in a bowl.

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Now imagine gathering your friends or family around the table and serving this masterpiece. The oohs and aahs will resonate like music as they dive in. Whether it’s a picnic in the park or dinner on the patio, this dish brings people together like nothing else. Trust me; your taste buds are about to embark on an exciting adventure.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful BLT Chicken Salad combines ease of preparation with an incredible flavor profile that will impress everyone at the table
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing while being versatile enough for any occasion—whether it’s lunch or dinner

I remember the first time I made this BLT Chicken Salad for my family picnic. The kids devoured it faster than I could scoop it into bowls!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Choose 3-4 breasts for juiciness; grilled or poached works perfectly here.
  • Crispy Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor; who doesn’t love crispy bacon?
  • Ripe Tomatoes: Select firm tomatoes that are bursting with color; vine-ripened varieties are best.
  • Fresh Romaine Lettuce: Opt for vibrant green leaves; they add a refreshing crunch.
  • Mayo: A creamy base is essential; use your favorite brand or homemade.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings bring out all the flavors in this salad; don’t skip them!
  • Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens the dish; freshly squeezed is ideal.
  • Optional Garnishes: Chives or parsley add a pop of color and flavor if you’re feeling fancy.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or stovetop pan over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts generously with salt and pepper before placing them on the hot surface. Grill each side until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Make the Bacon Crispy: While the chicken cooks, fry up some bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they reach that perfect crispy texture we all crave. Drain them on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Chop and Dice Everything Else: Once your chicken has rested (don’t rush this part!), chop it into bite-sized pieces alongside dicing those luscious tomatoes and tearing up the romaine lettuce into manageable chunks.

Mix It All Together!: In a large mixing bowl, combine your chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and romaine lettuce. Add mayo to taste along with lemon juice—toss everything gently until coated evenly without bruising your greens.

Season to Perfection: Finally, sprinkle additional salt and pepper over your beautiful creation if needed. Taste as you go because nobody likes bland food!

Remember to serve immediately for maximum freshness or chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes if you’d prefer a colder dish.

Enjoy every delightful bite of this classic yet fun take on a traditional salad!

You Must Know

  • This delightful BLT Chicken Salad is a game-changer for lunch
  • The crispy bacon, tender chicken, and fresh veggies create a flavorful explosion that makes your taste buds dance
  • It’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner that everyone will love

Perfecting the Cooking Process

For the best results, grill the chicken first to keep it juicy, then chop the vegetables while it rests. Assemble everything at the end for maximum flavor.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients like using turkey bacon instead of pork or adding avocado for extra creaminess. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors too.

Storing & Reheating

Store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best quality, avoid reheating; enjoy it cold for a refreshing bite.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always let the chicken rest after cooking; this keeps it moist and flavorful
  • Use fresh ingredients whenever possible for vibrant colors and tastes
  • Don’t skip the seasoning; it truly elevates this dish!

Sometimes, while preparing this salad, I’ve had friends pop by smelling bacon from a mile away—it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in BLT Chicken Salad?

You can use canned tuna or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian option.

How do I make my BLT Chicken Salad more filling?

Add some cooked quinoa or pasta to make it even heartier and satisfying.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare everything but dress it just before serving to maintain freshness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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BLT Chicken Salad


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  • Author: deleciouscorner
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Experience a burst of summer flavors with this refreshing BLT Chicken Salad, featuring juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies. Perfect for any gathering or a light meal!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 4 slices Thick-Cut Crispy Bacon
  • 2 Ripe Tomatoes
  • 1 head Fresh Romaine Lettuce
  • 1/2 cup Mayo
  • 1 tbsp Lemon Juice
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or stovetop pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; grill for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
  3. Chop tomatoes and tear romaine lettuce into pieces.
  4. In a large bowl, combine chicken, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, and lettuce. Add mayo and lemon juice; toss gently to coat without bruising the greens. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
  5. Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for a refreshing dish.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling/Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 590mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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