When you take your first bite of Savory BLT Chicken Salad, the combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes is nothing short of a flavor explosion. This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes and is a delightful twist on the classic BLT, marrying the familiar flavors into a hearty salad. It works beautifully because it balances protein with freshness while offering a satisfying crunch.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a light lunch with friends. It can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge, making it an easy option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s packed with protein from the chicken and bacon.
- The fresh romaine lettuce offers a crunchy texture.
- You can customize it by adding optional ingredients like avocado.
- The creamy dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to whip up this delicious salad.
For the Salad
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Optional: avocado, chopped
Use Greek yogurt as a healthier mayo substitute.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken: rotisserie chicken saves time.
- Bacon: turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Romaine: substitute with kale or spinach.
- Mayonnaise: avocado oil mayo for a cleaner taste.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
Mix Dressing
In a separate small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
Toss Together
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until evenly coated.
Add Avocado
If desired, add chopped avocado and mix gently.
Serve or Chill
Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, due to texture changes.
Reheat: N/A, best enjoyed cold.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the chicken is adequately shredded for even mixing.
- Allow the salad to chill for 30 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Adjust seasonings according to personal preference for extra flavor.
- For crunch, add croutons right before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
- Pair with fruit salad for a refreshing side.
- Perfect for a picnic or BBQ get-together.
