BLT Chicken Salad

BLT Chicken Salad is a flavorful twist on the classic chicken salad, bringing together everything you love about a BLT—crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy veggies—with tender, chopped chicken in a creamy dressing. Perfect for meal prepping or last-minute lunches, this salad works well in sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or simply on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy Bacon Flavor: Adds a savory punch to each bite.
• Fresh & Crunchy Veggies: Celery and onions bring texture and color.
• Quick to Prepare: Just 10 minutes from start to finish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on croissants, wraps, or lettuce cups.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for several days.

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (about 1 pound raw)
• 1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• ½ small red onion, diced small
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• ½ cup mayonnaise (light or regular)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Directions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

• Dice the bacon into ½-inch pieces.
• Add to a preheated skillet and cook over medium heat until crisp, stirring occasionally.
• Remove bacon using a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

Prepare the Dressing

• In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
• Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed (note: bacon adds saltiness, so be conservative).

Combine the Salad

• In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, cherry tomatoes, red onion, celery, and crispy bacon.
• Pour the dressing over the mixture.
• Gently stir until all ingredients are well coated.

Chill or Serve

• Serve immediately or refrigerate for 1 hour for flavors to meld.
• Enjoy as a sandwich filling, lettuce wrap, or on its own.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: Saves time and adds flavor.
• Lettuce Wraps: Serve in Bibb or Romaine leaves for a low-carb option.
• Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped dill.
• Add Creaminess: Mix in diced avocado just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Stuff into croissants, pita pockets, or wraps.
• Serve in lettuce cups for a lighter option.
• Spoon over mixed greens for a protein-packed salad.
• Pair with crackers or toast points for easy snacking.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–5 days.
• Avoid Freezing: Mayonnaise-based salads don’t freeze well.
• Food Safety Tip: Discard if left out at room temperature for over 2 hours.

FAQs

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?
Yes! Grilled, baked, or poached chicken all work well.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Definitely. The flavor gets better after a few hours in the fridge.

Is it gluten-free?
Yes, just serve without bread or use gluten-free options.

Can I substitute Greek yogurt for mayo?
Yes, for a lighter version, use plain Greek yogurt or do a half-and-half blend.

Conclusion

BLT Chicken Salad is everything you love about the classic sandwich, reimagined into a satisfying, protein-packed salad. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, zesty dressing, it’s a flavor-loaded dish that’s easy to prepare and endlessly versatile. Whether served in a sandwich, on lettuce wraps, or eaten straight from the bowl, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your lunch rotation. Simple, delicious, and totally crave-worthy!

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