Say hello to your new favorite BLT Chicken Salad – crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh lettuce come together in a creamy, zesty dressing you’ll crave all summer! This vibrant salad blends tender chicken, smoky bacon, crisp romaine leaves, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in a tangy mayo-mustard dressing with pops of fresh parsley. It’s a beginner-friendly recipe that delivers big on flavor without demanding hours in the kitchen. In just 15 minutes of prep and about 20 minutes of cooking, plus a quick 30-minute chill to let everything harmonize, you’ll have a stunning lunch or dinner that clocks in around 360 calories per serving. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering, packing a picnic, or just craving something cool and refreshing after a busy day, this BLT Chicken Salad is your go-to summer superstar.
I’ll never tire of how the smoky crunch of bacon contrasts with the tender chicken in every bite. One of my favorite memories is whipping up this salad on a lazy Sunday morning, the sunlight streaming through the window as I chopped, crumbled, and whisked my way to bliss. The first forkful is like a celebration: the slight tang of Dijon mustard meets the soft creaminess of mayonnaise while that bright squeeze of lemon juice cuts through the richness. Each mouthful feels like a little summery party in your mouth. Trust me, once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself daydreaming about cold bowls piled high with this irresistible mix. So grab your favorite mixing bowl and let’s dive into the magic of BLT Chicken Salad!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BLT CHICKEN SALAD
Before we roll up our sleeves and assemble this taste sensation, let’s get familiar with the stars of the show. Each ingredient plays a special role, whether it’s adding texture, tang, or pure comfort to the mix.
- Cooked chicken breast
Tender, lean protein that forms the hearty base of the salad. Chopped into bite-sized pieces, it soaks up the dressing beautifully and makes every forkful feel satisfying.
- Bacon
Smoky, crispy crumbles that bring a savory crunch. The bacon’s richness balances out the fresh veggies, adding a mouthwatering contrast of textures.
- Cherry tomatoes
Juicy bursts of sweetness that lighten the dish and offer pops of vibrant color. Halved for easy eating, they complement the smokiness of the bacon.
- Romaine lettuce
Crisp, refreshing leaves that lend a satisfying crunch and act as the green backdrop for all the flavors. Its sturdy texture holds up well under the creamy dressing.
- Mayonnaise
The creamy foundation of the dressing, providing richness and a smooth mouthfeel. It helps coat every ingredient so you get flavor in each bite.
- Lemon juice
A bright, acidic kick that cuts through the mayo’s richness. It lends a tangy freshness that elevates the entire salad.
- Dijon mustard
Sharp and slightly spicy, it adds depth to the dressing and enhances the overall flavor profile with its subtle heat.
- Fresh parsley
A sprinkle of chopped green that brings an herbaceous note and cheerful color, tying together the creamy and savory elements.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that round out the taste. A pinch of each ensures every ingredient’s natural flavors shine.
HOW TO MAKE BLT CHICKEN SALAD
Let’s walk through how these components come together to create a delightful medley of flavors and textures. Follow these steps closely and get ready for your kitchen to feel like a sunlit summer escape.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and chopped chicken breast, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. Gently blend until the ingredients are evenly distributed, ensuring every bite will have a bit of each component.
2. In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh parsley until smooth. The dressing should be creamy and lightly tangy, with flecks of green parsley throughout.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture, then use a gentle tossing motion to coat all ingredients evenly. Take care not to overmix to keep the lettuce crisp and the bacon from becoming soggy.
4. Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, sprinkling evenly across the surface. Give it one more gentle toss so the seasoning blends seamlessly into the salad.
5. For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the dressing to meld with the ingredients, enhancing the overall depth of taste.
6. Serve cold as a refreshing main dish or side salad. Spoon it into bowls or fill lettuce cups for an elegant presentation that highlights the colorful medley.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BLT CHICKEN SALAD
When it comes to presenting this delicious creation, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re aiming for a casual family meal, an impressive potluck contribution, or a light lunch at your desk, these serving ideas will make your BLT Chicken Salad shine. Each approach highlights the textures and flavors in a unique way, so feel free to get creative, mix and match, and tailor the presentation to your occasion. Let your table reflect the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients you’ve so lovingly assembled!
- Serve with crusty artisan bread
Slice a warm baguette or country loaf, toast it lightly, and offer it alongside the salad. Guests can scoop up the creamy mixture on hearty bread for a satisfying handheld treat.
- Fill buttery croissants
For an extra indulgent twist, split soft croissants and pile in the salad. The flaky layers complement the crunchy bacon and crisp lettuce, turning each bite into pure comfort.
- Present in lettuce cups
Spoon generous portions into large, sturdy romaine or iceberg leaves. These edible cups make the salad feel light and fun—ideal for a picnic or buffet spread where guests can grab-and-go.
- Garnish with avocado slices
Nestle thin avocado slices around the edges of your serving platter or fan them over each individual portion. The creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the tangy dressing and smoky bacon.
HOW TO STORE BLT CHICKEN SALAD
Keeping your BLT Chicken Salad fresh and flavorful after you’ve made it is simple when you follow a few key steps. Because this salad features a creamy dressing and crisp vegetables, it’s best enjoyed sooner rather than later. Proper storage ensures the lettuce stays crunchy, the bacon retains its texture, and the dressing doesn’t water down. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you preserve every last bite of this summertime favorite.
- Airtight container refrigeration
Transfer the salad into a tightly sealed container. This prevents exposure to air, which can make lettuce wilt. Store it in the coldest part of your fridge for up to 2 days.
- Separate dressing storage
If you anticipate leftovers, consider storing the dressing in a small jar apart from the salad components. Combine them just before serving to keep the greens crisp.
- Layering technique
For meal-prep portions, layer ingredients in mason jars: dressing first, then chicken and bacon, followed by tomatoes, and lettuce at the top. When you’re ready to eat, shake to coat and serve.
- Consume fresh
To experience the salad at its peak, enjoy it within 24–48 hours. The texture and flavor are best when not kept beyond two days, ensuring every bite feels as vibrant as when you first made it.
CONCLUSION
Bringing all these elements together—the tender chicken, smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, and tangy herb dressing—results in a BLT Chicken Salad that’s as colorful as it is flavorful. From the effortless prep to the satisfying crunch in each bite, this recipe is designed for home cooks who want something quick, tasty, and shareable. You’ve got a total preparation time of just 15 minutes, a quick 20-minute cooking session, and then a relaxing 30-minute fridge rest before serving cold or at room temperature. With about 360 calories per serving and a beginner-friendly difficulty level, it’s a stress-free way to impress lunch guests, feed a family, or pack a fantastic picnic box. Go ahead and print this article, tuck it into your recipe binder, or save it for your next menu plan—you’ll be revisiting these flavors all summer long.
I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions, need help troubleshooting a step, or want to share your own creative twists. Did you swap in Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing? Maybe you tried grilling the chicken for extra char? Let me know how you made it yours. Check out the FAQ below for extra tips and tricks, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need anything—your feedback and happy kitchen stories make my day!
BLT Chicken Salad
Description
This vibrant salad blends tender chicken, smoky bacon, crisp lettuce, and sweet cherry tomatoes tossed in a tangy mayo-mustard dressing with fresh parsley. Perfect chilled for warm days!
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked and chopped chicken breast, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce.
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In a separate small bowl, prepare the dressing by whisking together mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh parsley until smooth.
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Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently toss to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste, then toss again to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
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For the best flavor, cover the salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
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Serve cold as a refreshing main dish or side salad.
Note
- For added flavor, try grilling the chicken instead of boiling or baking it.
- Whole grape tomatoes can be used if you prefer more bite in your salad.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a lighter version.
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness.
- Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
