BLT Chicken Salad

Setting the Scene

Picture a sun-drenched afternoon as the warm breeze whispers through the open windows, carrying with it the scent of freshly cooked bacon and ripe tomatoes. You’re gathered around a table, surrounded by friends or family, sharing laughter and stories. The air is filled with cheer as vibrant colors burst on your plates, and that’s when the BLT Chicken Salad takes center stage.

This dish isn’t just a salad—it’s a celebration in a bowl, combining quintessential BLT flavors with tender chunks of chicken. It beckons for warm summer picnics and cozy weeknight dinners alike, transforming an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Whether served on a crisp bed of lettuce or tucked into a soft sandwich, this chicken salad delights the senses, making it a favorite for all ages. The crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado harmonize beautifully, ensuring each bite is a delightful experience.

So, grab your chopping board and let’s dive into this flavorful dish that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. It’s time to create your own delicious moment with the BLT Chicken Salad.

What You’ll Need

Before you embark on this culinary adventure, let’s gather the ingredients and tools that will bring your delightful BLT Chicken Salad to life. With just a handful of components, you’ll find that making this dish is as easy as a summer breeze.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves (for serving)

Tools

You’ll need a few basic kitchen tools to help you whip up this delightful salad:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Chopping board
• Sharp knife
• Serving dishes

How to Make It

Creating the BLT Chicken Salad is a wonderful process, incorporating fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors into your meal. With a blend of textures and tastes, the steps are simple yet rewarding.

Prep the Base

Start by taking a large mixing bowl and adding the shredded chicken. The sight of tender, succulent meat nestled in the bowl evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. Next, introduce the vibrant cherry tomatoes, their tiny, jewel-like forms bursting with the promise of sweetness. As you gently toss these ingredients together, the inviting aroma of the chicken mingles with the fresh scent of the tomatoes, and suddenly, a delightful melody of flavors begins to reveal itself.

Continue by crumbling your crispy bacon over the mixture, the sound of the crackling bacon echoes cheerfully in your kitchen. The rich, savory scent fills the air, urging you to take a taste right there. Finally, add in the diced avocado, its creaminess providing a luxurious touch. Together, these components form the heart of your BLT Chicken Salad—bold, colorful, and oh-so-tempting.

Whisk Up the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, combine the mayonnaise and fresh lemon juice, whisking them together until they are smooth and lustrous. As you mix, the tangy aroma of lemon brightens the richness of the mayonnaise, creating a dressing that promises to elevate your salad. Don’t forget to season it liberally with salt and freshly cracked pepper, coaxing out the natural flavors of the ingredients. This dressing not only binds the salad together but also enriches it with a velvety texture and zesty kick.

Combine with Care

Now comes the fun part! Gently pour the dressing over your chicken mixture, allowing the creamy goodness to envelop each ingredient. Stir with love, ensuring every piece is coated in this delicious sauce. As you combine, your senses are treated to a medley of colors, textures, and heavenly aromas. The shiny bacon crumbles and cherry tomatoes peek through the creamy layers, creating a vibrant tapestry that invites everyone to dive in.

Serve with Style

To serve, lay down a generous bed of crisp lettuce leaves on a beautiful plate, creating a green canvas that highlights the colorful chicken salad. As you scoop the mixture onto the leaves, the crunch of the lettuce reverberates, and the salad glistens under the light, embodying a dish that is as visually appealing as it is delectable. Alternatively, spread the chicken salad between slices of fresh bread to create a sandwich that is just as comforting and delightful.

Creative Twists

The beauty of the BLT Chicken Salad lies in its versatility. Here are a few creative twists to inspire your culinary journey:

• Seasonal Upgrades: In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash or apples for a sweet twist. In the winter, throw in some toasted nuts for an added crunch and warmth.

  
  

• Flavor Enhancements: Elevate your salad by incorporating fresh herbs like basil or dill. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add a hint of depth that complements the bacon beautifully.

  
  

• Protein Swaps: If chicken isn’t your favorite, try using rotisserie turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian version that still packs a protein punch.

  
  

• Veggie Variations: Add finely diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and freshness. You could also consider tossing in some sweet corn or black beans for a hearty twist.

  
  

Final Inspiration

As you sit down to savor each bite of your homemade BLT Chicken Salad, let the flavors transport you to a place of comfort and joy. This dish doesn’t just nourish your body; it feeds your soul. Share it with loved ones, bring it to summer barbecues, or simply make it a part of your weekly menu rotation.

Creating meals like the BLT Chicken Salad is about more than just ingredients; it’s about bringing people together, celebrating flavors, and enjoying life’s simple pleasures. So go ahead, try this recipe, and let every delicious bite remind you of the warmth of love and friendship. Your kitchen is calling—embrace the experience!

BLT Chicken Salad

A delightful and flavorful twist on the classic BLT, combining shredded chicken, crispy bacon, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course, Salad

Cuisine: American

Keyword: BLT chicken salad, Chicken Salad, Comfort Food, Quick Meal, summer salad

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved Choose ripe tomatoes for best flavor.
• 4 slices crispy bacon, crumbled Cook until crispy for the best texture.
• 1 avocado, diced Use a ripe avocado for creaminess.
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise Add more for a creamier texture if desired.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice Freshly squeezed for the best flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lettuce leaves (for serving) Use your favorite type of lettuce.

Instructions

Preparation

• In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken.
• Fold in the halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, and diced avocado.

Make the Dressing

• In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and lemon juice until smooth.
• Season the mixture with salt and pepper.

Combine the Salad

• Gently pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and stir to combine until all ingredients are coated.

Serve

• To serve, lay down lettuce leaves on a plate and scoop the chicken salad mixture on top.
• Alternatively, use the salad as a filling for a sandwich.

Notes

Feel free to customize with seasonal ingredients or herbs for added flavor. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings or as a quick weeknight meal.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 10g | Protein: 28g | Fat: 22g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Sodium: 550mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 2g