Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Are you looking for a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s both hearty and fresh? Look no further than this delectable BLT Chicken Salad Bowl! This recipe beautifully combines tender cooked chicken, crispy bacon, sweet cherry tomatoes, crisp celery, and red onion, all tossed in a creamy and tangy dressing. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a sandwich filling, this salad is a perfect balance of classic BLT flavors in every bite.

Transforming the beloved BLT sandwich into a protein-packed meal, this BLT Chicken Salad Bowl is ideal for meal prep lunches or quick dinners. With the combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken, this dish offers a satisfying and familiar taste with an exciting twist. Ready in under 30 minutes using precooked chicken, this versatile salad can be enjoyed as a low-carb and keto-friendly option, making it a delicious and guilt-free choice for any occasion.

Quick Benefits

• Protein-Packed Meal: Packed with cooked chicken and bacon, this salad offers a high protein content that satisfies hunger and fuels your body.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Perfect for meal prep, this salad can be made in advance and stored for several days, making it a convenient option for quick meals throughout the week.
• Versatile Usage: Enjoy this salad as a standalone meal, a sandwich filling, a wrap stuffing, or a salad topper, providing flexibility in how you choose to enjoy it.
• Low Carb and Keto-Friendly: This salad offers a low-carb and keto-friendly option, making it suitable for those following specific dietary guidelines.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe Recipe

• Ready in under 30 minutes using precooked chicken
• Perfect make ahead meal that stores beautifully
• Versatile as a sandwich filling, wrap stuffing, or salad topper
• Low carb and keto-friendly option
• Significant protein content makes it a satisfying complete meal
• Scales beautifully for parties or meal prep sessions
• Can be customized with additional vegetables without losing the BLT essence
• Bacon provides irresistible smoky crunch and texture contrast
• Cherry tomatoes offer bright acidity and natural sweetness
• Red onion contributes a sharp bite and freshness
• Celery delivers essential crunch and complements the texture
• Mayonnaise binds everything together with creamy richness
• Lemon juice brightens the dish with necessary acidity
• Seasonings enhance the natural flavors beautifully
• Keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-5 days, flavors improve over time
• Customizable with avocado, fresh herbs, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese
• Versatile presentation options like sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or stuffing avocados
• Secret weapon for busy weeks with delicious, satisfying meals
• Works with various types of cooked chicken
• Pairs well with lettuce cups, crackers, or as a standalone dish
• Lighten it up with low-fat mayonnaise or Greek yogurt-based dressing
• Turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter version

Ingredients for Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 small red onion, diced small
• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Pro Tips for Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Pro Tips:

To achieve the perfect texture, cook the bacon until extra crisp, as it will soften slightly when combined with the dressing. This ensures a satisfying crunch in every bite.

For optimal freshness, add the cherry tomatoes just before serving if making the salad ahead of time. This step prevents excess moisture and maintains the salad’s vibrant flavors.

Consider keeping a batch of cooked shredded chicken in the freezer for quick and easy preparation of this BLT chicken salad anytime. Having pre-cooked chicken on hand streamlines the process and allows you to enjoy this delicious dish in minutes.

How to Make Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Step 1: Step 01

Combine cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and celery in a large bowl.

Step 2: Step 02

Combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Step 03

Combine the prepared dressing with the main ingredients, stirring until fully mixed.

Step 4: Step 04

Either serve immediately or store in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days. Discard any leftovers left out for over 2 hours.

Storage Tips

Once prepared, the BLT chicken salad bowl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. For optimal flavor, it is recommended to store the tomatoes separately and fold them into the salad just before serving, especially if making the dish in advance. This helps prevent excess moisture from making the salad watery. Remember to follow food safety guidelines and discard any leftovers that have been left out at room temperature for more than two hours.

The versatility of this salad makes it a great option for various presentations. Enjoy it as a sandwich filling between toasted sourdough, stuff it into pita pockets, or serve it over lettuce leaves for a lower carb option. For a creative twist, try incorporating additions like avocado, fresh herbs, olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or feta cheese to customize the dish to your preferences. By following these storage tips and presentation ideas, you can continue to savor the delicious flavors of this BLT chicken salad bowl for several days to come.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions for the BLT Chicken Salad Bowl, there are a few options to consider. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can easily use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey as a substitute. It will still provide the protein base for the salad. Turkey bacon can be a great alternative to traditional bacon if you’re looking for a lighter option without sacrificing the smoky flavor and crisp texture. Additionally, if you’re trying to cut down on calories or looking for a tangier dressing, consider swapping out some or all of the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt. This will add a slightly different flavor profile while maintaining the creamy texture of the dressing.

For those looking to add more vegetables or customize the salad further, feel free to incorporate additional veggies like avocado chunks for creaminess and healthy fats, or fresh herbs like dill or basil to brighten up the flavors. If you’re aiming for a more Mediterranean twist, consider mixing in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a burst of tangy flavors. These additions can elevate the dish and provide a unique touch to suit your taste preferences or what you have available in your pantry.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try presenting the BLT Chicken Salad in hollowed-out avocado halves. The creamy avocado serves as a natural bowl, enhancing the richness of the salad while providing a unique and visually appealing presentation. It’s a great way to impress guests or add a touch of elegance to your meal.

Another fun idea is to serve the BLT Chicken Salad as a filling for lettuce wraps. Simply scoop a generous portion of the salad onto a large lettuce leaf, such as butter lettuce or romaine, and roll it up to create a light and refreshing handheld option. This serving method not only adds a crunch to each bite but also offers a low-carb and gluten-free alternative to traditional sandwich options.

FAQs for Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Can I use a different type of bacon for this recipe?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative and still provides a crispy, smoky flavor.

How long can I store this BLT chicken salad in the refrigerator?

This salad stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Avoid leaving it out for more than 2 hours.

What are some ways I can serve this BLT chicken salad?

This salad pairs well with lettuce cups, crackers, or as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s also delicious on its own.

How can I lighten up this BLT chicken salad?

To lighten it up, use a low-fat mayonnaise or a Greek yogurt-based dressing. You can also add more fresh vegetables like spinach or cucumber.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this BLT Chicken Salad Bowl is a delightful combination of classic flavors that never fails to satisfy. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick lunch, a make-ahead meal, or a flavorful party dish, this salad offers versatility and deliciousness in every bite. The creamy dressing, crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken create a harmony of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and ability to store well for several days, this BLT Chicken Salad Bowl is a dependable recipe to have in your repertoire. Whether you’re craving a low-carb meal, a protein-packed lunch, or a flavorful dinner option, this salad has got you covered. So go ahead, whip up a batch, and savor the blend of hearty and fresh flavors that make this salad a true winner at any mealtime. Enjoy the BLT Chicken Salad Bowl your way and let its deliciousness brighten up your day!

Delicious and Easy BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

Protein-packed BLT Chicken Salad Bowl with creamy dressing, crispy bacon, and vibrant veggies—a versatile, make-ahead meal perfect for low-carb and keto diets.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time15 Minutes

Cook Time~ undefined

Total Time15 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 small red onion, diced small
• 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Instructions

1. Step 01: Combine cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and celery in a large bowl.
2. Step 02: Combine mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. Step 03: Combine the prepared dressing with the main ingredients, stirring until fully mixed.
4. Step 04: Either serve immediately or store in an airtight container for 3 to 5 days. Discard any leftovers left out for over 2 hours.