BLT Chicken Salad

By:

Alejandro

Published:

May 2, 2026

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Thinking about the perfect combination of flavors that evoke comfort and satisfaction? Look no further than BLT Chicken Salad! This delightful spin on the traditional BLT captures the essence of crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and tender chicken, all enveloped in a creamy dressing. Its harmonious mix of textures—from the crunch of crispy bacon to the juicy bite of cherry tomatoes—makes it a standout dish that’s not only scrumptious but also visually appealing. It’s ideal for summer picnics, casual lunch gatherings, or a simple dinner at home.

I remember the first time I stumbled upon this recipe. I had a craving for a classic BLT, but I wanted something a bit more filling. The thought of adding chicken and whipping up a salad struck me as a perfect marriage of flavors. Every bite invites a symphony of savory satisfaction, leaving you wanting more! You’ll appreciate how simple it is to prepare and how it effortlessly becomes a crowd-pleaser. I can’t wait for you to try this fresh take on a classic favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip it up in just 5 minutes of prep time and a little cooking, perfect for busy days.
Irresistible Flavor: The smokiness of bacon combined with creamy mayo and tart lemon juice creates a taste explosion.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant colors from the cherry tomatoes and fresh greens make this salad a feast for the eyes.
Flexible Serving: Great for lunch, dinner, or as a satisfying snack any time of day.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by swapping out bread or serving over greens.

Ingredients You’ll Need

3 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonders for saving time and enhances flavor.
1 pound bacon, cooked and chopped: Choose thick-cut bacon for that extra bite that pairs beautifully with the salad.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced in half: These add a burst of freshness and sweetness, perfect for balancing flavors.
¼ cup scallions, chopped: They lend a mild onion flavor that brightens up the dish without overpowering it.
2 stalks celery, diced: Celery contributes a nice crunch that complements the texture of the salad.
1 cup mayonnaise: This creamy base binds everything together; you can use light mayonnaise for a healthier version.
½ cup sour cream: Helps to add richness and a slight tanginess that contrasts perfectly with other ingredients.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice adds a zing of acidity that brightens up the entire dish.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors—don’t forget it!
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle garlicky warmth.
½ teaspoon onion powder: Complements the fresh scallion with an extra layer of flavor.
¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of heat without overwhelming the dish.
¼ teaspoon paprika: This adds a hint of color and warmth that lingers on the palate.
Lettuce: Romaine or butter lettuce works great as a crisp bed for the chicken salad.
Bread for serving: Use your favorite type of bread to enjoy this salad in a sandwich format, whether it’s whole grain, sourdough, or a classic English muffin.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the 3 cups of cooked and shredded chicken, 1 pound of chopped bacon, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, ¼ cup of chopped scallions, and 2 stalks of diced celery. This combination sets the stage for a satisfying texture and hearty flavor.
Mix the Dressing: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of mayonnaise, ½ cup of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon of paprika until smooth. This dressing envelops the chicken mixture in creamy goodness.
Combine Everything: Toss the dressing with the chicken mixture until evenly coated. Ensure that every piece of chicken and veggie is adorned with the creamy goodness.
Chill: Refrigerate the mixture for about an hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, intensifying the overall taste.
Serve and Enjoy: Place the chilled BLT chicken salad onto a bed of fresh lettuce, or serve it between slices of your favorite bread for a delightful sandwich. Either way, it’s sure to impress!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover BLT chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, use a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, you can gently warm it in the microwave but be cautious not to overdo it, as the creamy dressing may change texture. To refresh the flavors, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before mixing to prevent the mayo from becoming runny.
If time allows, consider making the salad a day in advance for even more flavor as the ingredients meld overnight.
For a zesty twist, try adding diced pickles or jalapeños for an unexpected pop of flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning after chilling; flavors tend to mellow, so you might want a pinch more salt or a dash more lemon juice.
Use exactly 1 pound of bacon to ensure the salad isn’t overwhelmed by the meat; just the right amount gives the desired smoky flavor.

Enjoying this BLT Chicken Salad is a flavorful experience you won’t want to miss. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies makes for a truly satisfying dish that is versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with ingredients; it’s all about making it your own and enjoying every single delicious bite. Be ready to savor a wholesome meal that feels both indulgent and refreshingly light!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover roasted or grilled chicken works beautifully in this salad. Just ensure it’s shredded and fully cooked for the best texture.

How can I make this salad healthier?

To lighten it up, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and opt for a light mayo to cut down on calories. Adding more veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers can also enhance the nutritional content.

Can this salad be made vegan?

Yes! Substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein, use coconut yogurt in place of mayo and sour cream, and replace bacon with crispy smoked tempeh or coconut bacon for that salty crunch.

How can I serve this salad for a crowd?

If you’re serving a larger group, simply double the recipe, and consider offering a self-serve setup, allowing guests to build their own sandwiches or lettuce cups. This makes it interactive and fun!