Savory BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich. This dish brings together the savory essence of crispy bacon, the freshness of lettuce and tomatoes, and the hearty satisfaction of chicken. It’s not just delicious; it looks vibrant and colorful, making it perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or even a quick lunch at home. Just imagine the bright red tomatoes against the green romaine and golden bacon bits, all nestled in a creamy dressing!
The sensory experience is truly a treat—each bite bursts with the smoky flavor of bacon and the crunch of fresh veggies, all balanced by a creamy dressing. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about creating this delicious salad, including preparation steps, variations, and tips for serving. Let’s dive into the world of flavors and textures that make Savory BLT Chicken Salad a must-try dish!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fresh Ingredients: The salad features crisp, fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken.
- Ease of Preparation: This dish is straightforward and quick to whip up, perfect for busy days.
- Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and bacon, plus vitamins from fresh veggies.
- Versatility: Great as a main dish or side, and easily customized to suit your taste.
- Presentation: It looks stunning on the table, making it a great dish for gatherings.
With all these fantastic traits, you’ll love this salad even more each time you make it!
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total time: 20 minutes
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 5 minutes
Ingredients You’ll Need
Start by selecting 2 cups of cooked chicken, shredded; 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup of romaine lettuce, chopped; 1/2 cup of mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard; salt and pepper to taste.
Main Protein
For the protein, shredded chicken is a great choice because it blends perfectly with the flavors of the salad.
Preparation: Simply shred cooked chicken breast before adding it to the mix.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for a quicker option.
Tips: Make sure your chicken is fully cooked and cooled for the best taste and safety.
Aromatics & Vegetables
Romaine lettuce adds crunch, while cherry tomatoes provide a burst of sweetness.
Preparation: Chop the lettuce and halve the tomatoes right before serving.
Substitutions: If you prefer different greens, spinach or mixed greens can also work well.
Warnings: Always wash vegetables thoroughly to remove any pesticides or dirt.
Liquids/Dairy
Mayonnaise and Dijon mustard create a creamy dressing that pulls all the flavors together.
Preparation: Mix mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in a bowl until smooth.
Substitutions: Greek yogurt can be used for a lighter version.
Tips: Mixing the dressing separately ensures even coating of the salad.
Seasoning/Spice Blend
Salt and pepper enhance the salad’s overall flavor.
Preparation: Season the salad to your taste just before serving.
Substitutions: Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add an extra layer of flavor.
Tips: Don’t be shy with the seasoning—just a little makes a vast difference!
Optional Finishing Ingredients
Adding crispy bacon elevates the dish with its smoky flavor.
Preparation: Crumble the bacon and sprinkle over the salad just before serving for maximum crispness.
Substitutions: If you’re looking for an alternative, turkey bacon is a lighter option.
Tips: Use fresh bacon cooked to a perfect crisp to achieve the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Savory BLT Chicken Salad is a breeze since it’s a one-pan meal that’s both quick and easy.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients in one place. This will make the preparation smooth and effortless.
Step 2: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard. Stir well until creamy and smooth. This step is crucial for blending flavors.
Step 3: Chop Your Vegetables
Chop the romaine lettuce and halve the cherry tomatoes. Make sure to keep them fresh for that crisp bite when you serve.
Step 4: Cook the Bacon
Cook 4 slices of bacon until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes over medium heat. Let them cool and crumble into pieces. The bacon adds that essential smoky flavor.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Vegetables
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped lettuce, and halved tomatoes. The vibrant colors should make your mouth water!
Step 6: Add Dressing
Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables. Toss everything gently until every piece is coated in creamy deliciousness. This ensures all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Transfer your salad to a serving bowl, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!
How to Serve
- Presentation: Serve in a large bowl or on a platter to showcase the colorful ingredients.
- Accompaniments: Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.
- Portions: This salad serves 4, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea for a refreshing touch.
This salad is not just delicious; it’s an experience to share!
Additional Tips
- For flavor enhancement, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
- Customize your salad by adding sliced avocado or cucumbers for extra freshness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture; the salad can become soggy if left too long.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Jalapeño Twist: Add diced jalapeños for a spicy kick!
- Avocado Delight: Mix in diced avocado for richness and creaminess.
- Mediterranean Style: Swap out the dressing for a vinaigrette and add feta cheese and olives.
Freezing and Storage
- Storage: Keep any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: It’s best not to freeze this salad as the texture of the fresh ingredients can change significantly.
Special Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Airtight container
- Frying pan for bacon
FAQ’s
Can I use frozen chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen chicken can work, but ensure it’s fully cooked and cooled before shredding.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, you can omit the mayonnaise for a lighter version or substitute with a healthier option.
Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the ingredients but it’s best to assemble the salad shortly before serving to maintain freshness.
Can I customize this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables or proteins you enjoy.
Are there alternative cooking methods for chicken?
Yes, you can grill, bake, or even poach the chicken, depending on your preference.
Conclusion
Savory BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. With its fresh ingredients and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion—from weekday lunches to summer picnics. Embrace this quick recipe that delivers both nutrition and taste, and enjoy making it for friends and family!
Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Gather all your ingredients in one place to make preparation smooth.
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until smooth.
- Chop the romaine lettuce and halve the cherry tomatoes.
- Cook the bacon until crispy (about 5-7 minutes over medium heat). Let cool and crumble.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped lettuce, and halved tomatoes.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken and vegetables; toss gently to coat.
- Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with crumbled bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Did you make this recipe?
Share a photo and tag us, we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!