BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying dish, this BLT Chicken Salad is the perfect choice. Combining tender shredded chicken with crispy turkey bacon, ripe tomatoes, and creamy avocado, it’s a delightful meal that works well for lunch or dinner. This salad stands out for its high protein content and vibrant flavors, making it an excellent option for meal prep or gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 25 minutes total time, this salad is perfect for busy weeknights.
• High in Protein: Each serving packs a hefty dose of protein, making it great for a post-workout meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add-ins.
• Creamy & Flavorful: The combination of Greek yogurt and mayonnaise creates a rich dressing that enhances every bite.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for easy lunches throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make your cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are a few essentials you’ll need to whip up this delicious salad.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine all ingredients without spilling.
• Whisk: Ensures the dressing is well-blended and creamy for optimal flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and safe.
• Airtight container: Keeps your salad fresh when stored in the fridge.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips Turkey turkey bacon (chopped (center cut))
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or you can skip and use all mayonnaise)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
• 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 1 avocado (diced)

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt then whisk in the ranch seasoning and cracked pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes

Gently fold in the halved grape tomatoes to incorporate them into the salad without mashing them.

Step 4: Finish with Avocado

Once everything is mixed together, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Add in the diced avocado just before serving to keep it fresh. Toss gently or layer on top of each serving.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Transfer your BLT Chicken Salad into an airtight container and store it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavors.

Enjoy your delicious BLT Chicken Salad as a hearty meal or a flavorful snack!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

This BLT Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in numerous ways, making it a great option for any meal. Whether you want a light lunch or a hearty dinner, here are some delightful serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Greens

• Use mixed greens or spinach as a base. The freshness of the greens complements the creamy salad perfectly.

In a Wrap

• Spoon the chicken salad into a whole wheat or spinach wrap for a portable meal option. Add extra veggies for crunch!

With Crackers

• Serve the salad with whole grain crackers for a quick snack. The crunchiness of the crackers adds texture.

As a Stuffed Tomato

• Hollow out large tomatoes and fill them with the chicken salad for an elegant presentation and fresh flavor.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To achieve the best BLT Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips that enhance taste and texture.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh, ripe tomatoes and ripe avocados will elevate the flavor profile.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the ranch seasoning according to your preference for spice.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge enhances flavors as they meld together.
• Add Crunch: Consider incorporating celery or cucumber for an added crunch that contrasts with the creaminess.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Complement your BLT Chicken Salad with these delicious side dishes that balance flavors and textures beautifully.

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These add sweetness and crunch, perfect alongside your salad.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with herbs provides additional protein and is refreshing.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast that cleanses the palate.
4. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Carrot and celery sticks paired with hummus create a crunchy, healthy snack.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and makes this meal feel like summer.
6. Roasted Asparagus: Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances your meal’s flavor while being low-calorie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious BLT Chicken Salad is easy, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold Ingredients: Skipping fresh ingredients can dull the flavor. Always use fresh tomatoes and avocados for the best taste.
• Bold Overmixing: Mixing too vigorously can break down the ingredients, especially the avocado. Gently fold in ingredients to keep textures intact.
• Bold Dressing Ratio: Using too much dressing can overpower the salad. Start with a small amount and add more as needed for balanced flavor.
• Bold Forgetting Seasonings: Neglecting to taste and adjust seasonings can lead to blandness. Always taste before serving and tweak the flavors to your liking.
• Bold Improper Storage: Storing without proper containers can lead to spoilage. Use airtight containers to keep your salad fresh longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the avocado separate until serving to prevent browning.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of ingredients like avocado and tomato after thawing.
• If you must freeze, do so without avocado and tomatoes; add them fresh after thawing.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This method works well if you want crispy bacon back.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts (30 seconds) until warm, but avoid overheating as it may change textures.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring occasionally. This is great for reheating chicken without drying it out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BLT Chicken Salad.

Can I make BLT Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this salad a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

What can I substitute for Turkey bacon?

If you’re looking for alternatives, consider using turkey breast or grilled chicken strips for a leaner option.

How long does BLT Chicken Salad last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, it will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for added crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep as it’s high in protein and keeps well when stored correctly.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only tasty but also versatile, making it an ideal choice for lunch or dinner. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy meal that’s packed with flavor!