As I stood in my kitchen, the sun casting golden rays through the window, I decided it was time to whip up something comforting yet refreshing—a delicious BLT Chicken Salad. Merging the beloved flavors of a classic BLT with protein-rich chicken, this recipe brings together creamy textures and the bright freshness of tomatoes and avocados. Perfect for meal prep, this salad not only saves time during busy weeks but also satisfies your craving for wholesome, homemade food. It’s a low-carb option that delivers big on flavor, making it the ultimate guilt-free indulgence for both lunch gatherings and quick dinners. Curious to see how this comforting dish comes together in a matter of minutes? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad

Quick and easy: In just a few minutes, you can prepare this meal-prep dream, making lunchtime a breeze for busy schedules.

Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap in your favorite proteins or veggies—like using turkey bacon or adding bell peppers—to customize each serving.

Creamy goodness: The combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise creates a luscious dressing that pairs wonderfully with fresh tomatoes and creamy avocado.

Nutritious twist: Packed with lean chicken and crispy bacon, this salad satisfies cravings while keeping your meal low-carb.

Crowd-pleaser: Whether served in a wrap or over mixed greens, this dish is sure to impress at gatherings, much like the Chicken Alfredo Tater or Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken.

Make-ahead magic: With a shelf life of 3-4 days, it’s perfect for meal prepping, allowing you to enjoy a wholesome meal whenever hunger strikes!

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad
• Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient source of lean protein; opt for lemon-herb or garlic-flavored for a delicious twist.
• Mayonnaise – Creamy base that binds the salad together; you can substitute with Greek yogurt for a lighter taste.
• Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess and tang; use it alone for a wholesome, healthier version.
• Bacon – Provides that iconic crispy texture; ensure it’s extra crispy to maintain crunch in your BLT Chicken Salad.
• Green Onions – Infuses the salad with a mild onion flavor; these can also be left out if you prefer a simpler taste.
• Diced Tomatoes – For a touch of freshness and acidity; they brighten up the dish, but feel free to skip if desired.
• Avocado – Offers a rich, creamy texture and healthy fats; add just before serving to prevent browning.
• Seasonings (Salt, Pepper, etc.) – Elevate the overall flavor; adjust to your taste for that perfect finish.

Optional Extras
• Diced Cucumbers or Bell Peppers – For added crunch and freshness, these can be tossed in effortlessly.
• Fresh Herbs – Add a sprinkle of parsley or cilantro for a burst of flavor and color if you’d like.

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but a fantastic option for meal prep, ensuring you have satisfying, homemade food ready to enjoy!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise and ½ cup of Greek yogurt until smooth and creamy. The mixture should have a luscious texture without any lumps. This creamy base will elevate your BLT Chicken Salad, so take your time to blend them thoroughly for about 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Seasonings
Next, stir in your choice of seasonings such as salt, pepper, and any desired herbs until they’re evenly distributed within the dressing. Taste as you go to ensure the flavors are just right for your palate. This step is crucial because it forms the flavorful backbone of your salad, enhancing the overall taste and satisfaction.

Step 3: Combine the Chicken and Bacon
Add 3 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken to the bowl, followed by 6 slices of crispy bacon, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Gently fold these ingredients into the dressing using a spatula, ensuring that the chicken and bacon are thoroughly coated without shredding them further. This step adds both protein and that classic BLT crunch.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Onions
Now, add ¼ cup of finely chopped green onions to the salad mixture. The fresh, mild onion flavor will complement the richness of the chicken and bacon beautifully. Gently mix until the green onions are well-distributed, incorporating a fresh pop of color and flavor into your BLT Chicken Salad.

Step 5: Add the Tomatoes
Carefully fold in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, being mindful not to crush them. These juicy morsels add brightness and acidity to the dish, reminiscent of the fresh elements found in a traditional BLT. This step enhances the salad’s appeal, both in taste and visual presentation.

Step 6: Adjust Seasonings
Give your BLT Chicken Salad a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or pepper based on personal preference. This step ensures the flavors are balanced and tailored to your liking, so don’t hesitate to make it your own.

Step 7: Incorporate Avocado Before Serving
To maintain optimal freshness, gently fold in one diced avocado just before serving. This adds a creamy texture and healthy fats, enriching your BLT Chicken Salad. Since avocados brown quickly, this timing is key to keeping your salad looking fresh and inviting.

Step 8: Chill the Salad
For the best flavor, cover your bowl with plastic wrap and chill the BLT Chicken Salad in the refrigerator for at least one hour. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. When you’re ready to enjoy, scoop it into your favorite serving dish or pack it for a meal prep option.

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keeping it sealed helps maintain freshness and flavors.

Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for longer than 2 hours to prevent spoilage, especially with the creamy dressing.

Ingredient Separation: For meal prep, consider packing ingredients like diced tomatoes and avocado separately. This keeps the salad fresh and prevents sogginess until you’re ready to enjoy it.

Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t require reheating. If you have leftover ingredients, store them for future salads or wraps to savor that delicious flavor!

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Crispy Bacon: Use extra crispy bacon to maintain texture; if cooked in advance, store separately until serving.

Avocado Timing: Add avocado just before serving to prevent browning and ensure a fresh, creamy bite in your BLT Chicken Salad.

Protein Variety: Feel free to mix rotisserie chicken with a blend of white and dark meat for richer flavors while shredding the chicken.

Seasoning Balance: Taste as you go when adjusting seasonings. Small tweaks can make a big difference in the overall flavor profile.

Ingredient Storage: For meal prep, pack ingredients separately to keep fresh and crunchy textures, especially for tomatoes and avocados.

Customization: Don’t hesitate to substitute ingredients to fit your taste preferences, like swapping mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.

What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad

Enjoying your BLT Chicken Salad is only the beginning; let’s turn it into a delightful, well-rounded meal.

Crispy Sweet Potatoes: These add a satisfying crunch and a sweet contrast, enhancing the flavor profile of your salad. A sprinkle of cinnamon will take them to the next level!
Mixed Green Salad: A light side of fresh greens with a zesty vinaigrette complements the richness of the chicken salad wonderfully. This pairing keeps things vibrant and refreshing on your plate.
Whole Grain Crackers: Perfect for dipping, these add a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the creamy textures of the salad—great for snacking!
Chilled Cucumber Soup: This light and refreshing soup can be a soothing contrast to the hearty salad. Its coolness offers a perfect balance, making for an inviting meal.
Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides a sweet, juicy contrast to the savory flavors of the BLT Chicken Salad. The natural sweetness will leave your palate refreshed.
Iced Lemonade or Herbal Tea: A cool beverage enhances your dining experience, making it perfect for sunny days. The citrus notes will complement the salad’s freshness beautifully.

Make Ahead Options

These BLT Chicken Salad preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the dressing (1/2 cup mayonnaise and 1/2 cup Greek yogurt), along with the shredded rotisserie chicken and bacon, up to 3 days in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent the bacon from losing its crispiness. Additionally, chop the green onions and tomatoes the night before for quick assembly. When ready to serve, fold in the diced avocado and chill for at least an hour to enhance the flavors. This way, you’ll enjoy a fresh and delicious BLT Chicken Salad with minimal effort, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!

BLT Chicken Salad Variations

Get creative and customize your delicious BLT Chicken Salad to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Turkey Bacon: Swap traditional bacon for turkey bacon to create a leaner, but equally tasty version. It retains that satisfying crunch while cutting back on calories.
Canned Chicken: If you’re short on time, use canned chicken. It’s a quick alternative that still provides protein, perfect for meal prep days when every minute counts!
Diced Cucumbers: For an extra crunch, toss in some diced cucumbers. They add a refreshing flavor and delightful texture, making every bite more exciting!
Whole Grain Mustard: Add a teaspoon of whole grain mustard to the dressing for a zesty kick. It adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the classic BLT essence.
Vegan Option: Replace chicken and bacon with chickpeas and tempeh. Season them well to mimic the original flavors while catering to plant-based diets.
Avocado Alternatives: If you’re avoiding avocados, mashed silken tofu offers a creamy texture without the browning issue. It’s a clever way to keep the salad luscious and filling.
Fresh Herbs: Stir in chopped fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for an aromatic boost. They brighten up your salad and provide a fragrant contrast to the creamy dressing.
Spicy Twist: For heat lovers, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. This will ignite your taste buds and take your salad to a new level of deliciousness.

Feel free to explore these variations, and remember, your BLT Chicken Salad can become a new masterpiece each week. For additional meal ideas, try pairing it with our Creamy Crack Chicken Gnocchi for a comforting meal or enjoy it alongside our Smothered Chicken Rice for an easy weeknight dinner!

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of rotisserie chicken should I use?
Absolutely! You can use a plain rotisserie chicken or get adventurous with lemon-herb or garlic-flavored varieties. These flavors can really enhance your BLT Chicken Salad, making it more delicious. Just make sure to shred the chicken right after it’s warm for easier handling.

How should I store my BLT Chicken Salad?
You want to keep your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container, where it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days in the fridge. This helps preserve its creamy texture and flavors. Just remember to pack any ingredients that you want to keep from getting soggy, like diced tomatoes and avocado, separately until you’re ready to eat.

Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
I typically don’t recommend freezing BLT Chicken Salad because the texture of fresh ingredients, especially tomatoes and avocado, can change once they’re thawed. If you must freeze it, try omitting the tomatoes and avocado before freezing. Store the mixed salad in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge and add fresh ingredients before serving!

How can I prevent my salad from getting soggy?
Very! To keep your BLT Chicken Salad from getting soggy, I suggest packing the components separately. Store the salad itself in one container and the avocado and diced tomatoes in another. Combine them just before serving for the best taste and crisp texture. Also, be sure to drain any excess liquid from your salad ingredients.

What dietary considerations should I keep in mind?
If you have dietary considerations, you’ll be glad to know that this BLT Chicken Salad can be adapted! For a gluten-free option, just ensure your mayonnaise and any other condiments are gluten-free. If anyone has allergies, consider swapping bacon for turkey bacon or omitting it entirely, using extra veggies like bell peppers for crunch instead.