Savory BLT Chicken Salad

When the craving for something refreshing yet hearty strikes, nothing quite satisfies like a Savory BLT Chicken Salad. This easy and delectable dish marries the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with tender, shredded chicken, creating a delightful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or hosting a gathering, this salad shines as both a standalone dish and a complement to other courses.

Why You’ll Love Making It

Top Reasons to Try This Dish

What sets this Savory BLT Chicken Salad apart is its incredible fusion of flavors and textures. Not only is it quick to whip up—taking less than 30 minutes—but it’s also a budget-friendly option that utilizes simple ingredients you might already have on hand. The nutty crunch of bacon, the juicy bursts of cherry tomatoes, and the crispness of romaine lettuce create a symphony of taste that even the pickiest eaters will love.

"This salad was a hit at our family barbecue! Everyone kept asking for the recipe. So simple yet so good!" – A satisfied home cook.

It’s perfect for those busy weeknights, casual brunches, or as a satisfying side dish for summer picnics. Trust me; this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

How to Prepare This Recipe

Making this Savory BLT Chicken Salad is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can bring this delightful dish together. The process includes combining your ingredients in a large bowl, whipping up a simple yet flavorful dressing, and blending everything until it’s just right. Here’s a brief overview of the steps:

  1. Combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce in a large bowl.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss until well coated.
  4. Serve immediately or chill in the fridge for later!

What You’ll Need

Gather Your Ingredients

To create this scrumptious salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

You can easily substitute cooked turkey for chicken or switch out the bacon for turkey bacon to cater to dietary preferences.

Step-by-Step Directions

Cooking Steps

Here’s how to bring the Savory BLT Chicken Salad to life:

  1. Prep your ingredients. Shred the cooked chicken and cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble.
  2. Mix the base. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
  3. Whisk up the dressing. In a smaller bowl, blend together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
  4. Combine everything. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until well combined.
  5. Serve or store. Enjoy immediately, or cover and refrigerate for later use.

Best Way to Serve

Serving Suggestions

This salad can be enjoyed in numerous delightful ways. Serve it over toasted bread for a satisfying sandwich, in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or on a bed of mixed greens for additional nutrients. Pair it with crusty bread or your favorite chips for a fantastic meal combo.

Storage Tips

Best Way to Store Savory BLT Chicken Salad

To keep your Savory BLT Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 days of preparation. If you plan to save leftovers, consider keeping the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to maintain the salad’s crispness. When reheating, remember that bacon may lose its crunchiness.

Tips and Tricks

Expert Advice

For optimal texture and flavor, don’t skip the freshly crumbled bacon; it adds a velvet crunch that ties the dish together. If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is an excellent shortcut. Also, taste the dressing before adding it to your chicken mixture—everyone’s palate is different, and you might want to adjust the seasoning!

Creative Twists

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with your BLT Chicken Salad! Add diced avocado for creaminess or sprinkle in some crumbled feta for a tangy kick. For a spicy hint, mix in sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dressing. You can also swap regular mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Your Questions Answered

Common questions

How long does this salad last in the fridge?
It can typically last up to 3 days if stored properly in an airtight container.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just prepare the salad but keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

What can I use instead of bacon?
Turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas are great alternatives for a different twist without sacrificing flavor.

Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Bell peppers, cucumbers, or even shredded carrots can add additional crunch and flavor.

This Savory BLT Chicken Salad is not only quick and easy, but it’s also a sure way to please your family and friends. Give it a try and discover why it deserves a spot on your dinner table!

Print
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Savory BLT Chicken Salad


  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Paleo

Description

A refreshing yet hearty salad that combines the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with tender, shredded chicken.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: shred the cooked chicken and cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
  3. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss gently until well combined.
  5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for later use.

Notes

For optimal texture, use freshly crumbled bacon. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate if storing leftovers.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Mixing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: chicken salad, BLT salad, quick meals, summer recipes, picnic food

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