Delicious BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

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The vibrant colors of a BLT Chicken Salad leap out from the bowl like a rainbow at a pot of gold. Imagine crispy bacon giving way to tender chicken, all nestled in a bed of fresh greens and juicy tomatoes, with a drizzle of savory dressing that ties it all together. This delightful concoction is not just food; it’s an experience that dances on your taste buds and sings to your soul.

This recipe isn’t just about deliciousness; it’s also about memories. I remember the first time I made this for my family during a summer barbecue. The way their eyes lit up as they took their first bites was priceless! From lazy picnics to dinner parties with friends, this salad is perfect for any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delightful BLT Chicken Salad combines effortless preparation with an explosion of flavors that will wow your guests
  • Its striking presentation makes it a showstopper on any table
  • Customize it to fit your dietary needs or use leftover chicken for quicker prep
  • Perfect for summer gatherings or light lunches!

I still chuckle at how my cousin tried to eat this salad like a sandwich—bless her heart!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts based on your crowd size; juicy and tender is the goal here.
  • Cooked Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for that satisfying crunch; who doesn’t love crispy bacon?
  • Romaine Lettuce: Choose firm heads for crispness; romaine adds an excellent crunch.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: These little gems burst with flavor; opt for ripe ones for best results!
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced adds sharpness; soak in water briefly if you prefer milder flavors.
  • Mayonnaise: Use your favorite brand; this creamy base ties everything together beautifully.
  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish; avoid bottled juice whenever possible.
  • Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to your taste preferences.

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

Let’s Make it together

Prepare the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill or skillet until fully cooked.

Cook the Bacon: While the chicken cooks, fry the bacon in a pan until crispy—about 7-10 minutes. Let them cool on paper towels while you prepare other ingredients.

Chop Your Veggies: Dice the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces along with cherry tomatoes and red onion. Keep those colors vibrant!

Create the Dressing: In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and lemon juice. Mix until smooth and creamy—this will add that zesty touch everyone loves!

Toss It All Together: Once everything is prepped, slice up the chicken and bacon. Combine lettuce, tomatoes, onions, chicken pieces, and bacon in a large bowl and drizzle the dressing over top.

Serve Up & Enjoy!: Gently toss everything together until well coated and serve immediately. You can also chill it before serving if you prefer it cold.

Your taste buds will thank you as they dive into this refreshing blend of flavors!

You Must Know

  • This delightful BLT Chicken Salad is not just scrumptious; it’s also quick to whip up
  • The blend of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and fresh greens makes it a winning dish for any gathering
  • Plus, it’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first for that golden crust, then chop the veggies while it cooks. This keeps everything fresh and saves time.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite greens or add avocado for a creamy twist. Customization allows you to make this salad uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave, but enjoy cold for the best flavor!

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • When preparing your chicken, always season well; this adds depth of flavor
  • Let your salad chill before serving—this melds the flavors beautifully
  • Use crispy bacon because no one likes soggy strips ruining a good salad!

I remember making this BLT Chicken Salad for a picnic and watching everyone devour it within minutes. It was a hit, and the compliments still echo in my mind!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I use instead of chicken?

Try chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian version of BLT Chicken Salad.

Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve.

What dressing works best with this salad?

A simple ranch or a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors perfectly.

Print
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BLT Chicken Salad


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

Description

BLT Chicken Salad is a colorful and satisfying dish that combines crispy bacon, tender chicken, and fresh veggies, making it an ideal choice for light lunches or summer gatherings.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 6 slices thick-cut cooked bacon
  • 1 head romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • 1 small red onion
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the grill or skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side).
  2. Fry the bacon in a pan until crispy, approximately 7-10 minutes. Let cool on paper towels.
  3. Chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, and thinly slice the red onion.
  4. In a bowl, mix the mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
  5. Slice the cooked chicken and bacon; combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Drizzle dressing over top and toss gently.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Frying/Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 29g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: - Customize with your favorite greens or add avocado for added creaminess. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days; serve cold for optimal flavor.

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