BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a fresh and satisfying meal, this BLT Chicken Salad is an excellent choice. Packed with protein and flavor, this salad is perfect for lunch, dinner, or as a healthy snack. The combination of tender shredded chicken, crispy Turkey Bacon, and creamy avocado creates a delightful dish that’s both nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing meals for the week, this recipe stands out for its versatility and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this delicious salad, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• High in Protein: With rotisserie chicken and Turkey Bacon, this salad offers a substantial protein boost to keep you satisfied.
• Flavorful Dressing: The creamy dressing made from Greek yogurt and mayonnaise enhances the taste of every bite.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out the seasonings to suit your preferences.
• Meal Prep Friendly: This salad stores well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing your BLT Chicken Salad easier and ensures great results. Here are some essential tools you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without worrying about spills.
• Whisk: Ideal for blending the dressing smoothly, ensuring even flavor distribution throughout the salad.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and efficient, saving you time in preparation.

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Ingredients

To make your delicious BLT Chicken Salad, gather the following ingredients:

For the Salad

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips 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.
1. Add in the mayo and Greek yogurt.
2. Whisk in the ranch seasoning and freshly cracked pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the following ingredients into the bowl:
– Shredded chicken
– Chopped Turkey Bacon
– Diced green onions

Mix well until everything is combined.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Adjust Seasonings

Next, add in the halved or quartered grape tomatoes:
1. Mix gently again to incorporate them evenly into the salad.
2. Taste your salad and adjust any seasonings if necessary.

Step 4: Incorporate Avocado Before Serving

Once you’re ready to serve:
– Gently toss diced avocado into your desired portion of chicken salad.
– Alternatively, leave them in a single layer on top for presentation.

Step 5: Chill Before Serving

Place your prepared salad into an airtight container:
– Store it in the fridge for at least 1 hour before serving to enhance flavors.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your refreshing BLT Chicken Salad!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

BLT Chicken Salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh lettuce or spinach provides a crunchy base for the salad, making it a refreshing option.

In a Wrap

• Use whole grain or spinach tortillas to wrap the salad for an easy-to-eat lunch on the go.

With Crackers

• Serve the salad with whole grain crackers for added crunch, making it great for snacks or appetizers.

As a Sandwich

• Spread the salad onto whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich that’s perfect for picnics or packed lunches.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To achieve the best BLT Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavors and texture, making your dish even more enjoyable.

• Use juicy chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken adds great flavor and tenderness. You can also grill fresh chicken for added smokiness.
• Opt for fresh ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and avocados elevate taste and nutrition. Choose ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.
• Customize the dressing: Adjust the mayo and yogurt ratio based on your preference for creaminess. A bit of lemon juice can add zest.
• Add more veggies: Include diced cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch and nutrition. This also enhances the color of your dish.
• Serve chilled: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for an hour before serving helps meld flavors beautifully.
• Top with herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add aromatic touches that brighten up your salad.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BLT Chicken Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These provide a sweet contrast to the savory salad and are easy to prepare in the oven.
2. Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed side that complements the chicken while adding texture and flavor with herbs and veggies.
3. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and sweetness, balancing out the richness of the salad.
4. Coleslaw: Crunchy cabbage slaw tossed in a light vinaigrette offers additional crunch and pairs well with creamy salads.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers bring warmth and color to your plate.
6. Hummus and Veggies: A platter of assorted raw vegetables with hummus makes for a healthy snack option alongside your salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to ensure your salad is perfect every time.

• Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: Large chunks can lead to an uneven texture. Shred the chicken finely for better mixing and flavor distribution.
• Overcooking the Turkey Bacon: Crispy is good, but burnt is not. Cook it just until crispy to preserve its flavor and texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning Adjustments: Tasting is key! Always taste your mixture before serving to adjust seasonings according to your preference.
• Adding Avocado Too Soon: Wait until you’re ready to serve before adding diced avocado. This prevents browning and maintains freshness.
• Ignoring Storage Tips: Proper storage ensures longevity. Use airtight containers and refrigerate promptly after preparing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the avocado separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the mayonnaise and avocado components which can change texture.
• If you must freeze it, store without avocado and use within a month.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a covered dish for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds) until warm, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making BLT Chicken Salad.

What can I substitute for Turkey Bacon?

You can use turkey bacon alternatives like coconut bacon or skip it entirely for a vegetarian version.

Can I make this BLT Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for at least an hour.

How do I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

Feel free to add ingredients like cucumber, bell peppers, or different herbs based on your preferences!

Is there a vegan version of BLT Chicken Salad?

Yes! Substitute chicken with shredded jackfruit or chickpeas, replace turkey bacon with a plant-based alternative, and use vegan mayo.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. Customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust seasonings to suit your taste. Perfect as a meal prep option or for lunch, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try today!