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Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

This Easy BLT Chicken Salad combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, sweet tomatoes, and a creamy homemade dressing for a satisfying meal. It’s perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a light dinner.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes (if cooking bacon)
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Salad

  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1½ cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup diced cucumber (optional)
  • ¼ cup thinly sliced red onion
  • ½ avocado, diced (optional)
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

For the Dressing

  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, combine the chicken, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, cheddar cheese, and bacon.

Step 3: Toss

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Serve

Serve immediately, or chill for 15–20 minutes for even better flavor.


Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 430
  • Protein: 34 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Fat: 29 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Cholesterol: 105 mg
  • Sodium: 670 mg

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used.


Tips

  • Rotisserie chicken makes this recipe quick and convenient.
  • Cook bacon until extra crispy for the best texture.
  • Add avocado just before serving to keep it fresh.
  • Chill the salad for a few minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
  • For extra crunch, top with sunflower seeds or sliced almonds.

Variations

  • Low-Carb: Omit tomatoes if desired and add extra lettuce.
  • Spicy: Mix chopped jalapeños or hot sauce into the dressing.
  • Ranch Style: Replace the dressing with your favorite ranch dressing.
  • Mediterranean: Add feta cheese, olives, and cucumber.
  • High-Protein: Add a chopped hard-boiled egg or extra grilled chicken.

Storage

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Keep the dressing separate if preparing ahead to maintain crisp lettuce.
  • Not recommended for freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use canned chicken?
Yes. Drain it well before mixing with the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes. Store the dressing separately and combine just before serving.

Q: What lettuce works best?
Romaine provides the best crunch, but iceberg, butter lettuce, or mixed greens also work well.

Q: Can I make it healthier?
Yes. Use light mayonnaise, extra Greek yogurt, and turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, provided all packaged ingredients, especially the bacon and mustard, are certified gluten-free.

Q: What can I serve with BLT Chicken Salad?
It pairs well with toasted whole-grain bread, lettuce wraps, crackers, or fresh fruit.

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