Delicious BLT Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer

There is something undeniably magical about a salad that combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables. Picture this: a sunny picnic day where the aroma of grilled chicken wafts through the air, making you feel like a culinary genius without breaking a sweat. This isn’t just any salad; it’s the BLT Chicken Salad that sings to your taste buds while giving you the ultimate summer vibe.

I remember the first time I made this salad for a family gathering. Everyone dove into it so quickly that I barely had time to snap a photo! It’s perfect for those warm evenings when you want something light yet satisfying. So grab your lettuce and let’s dive into this delicious adventure together!

I once served this at a potluck where my friends declared me the “salad wizard.” Who knew tossing ingredients could earn you such accolades?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; cooking them perfectly ensures juicy bites in every forkful.
• Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for maximum crunch and smoky flavor; it’s like adding little bites of happiness.
• Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing; choose tightly packed leaves for that satisfying crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Their sweet pop adds color; look for vibrant red ones that shine like tiny jewels.
• Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch; pick firm cucumbers without soft spots for the best texture.
• Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a slight zing that keeps everything balanced; soak them in water if you want them milder.
• Your Favorite Dressing: Whether it’s ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, choose one that complements all flavors beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper before cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Crisp Up That Beef: In another pan, cook the beef until it’s crispy—about 5-7 minutes should do it! Let it drain on paper towels to keep it crunchy.

Prepare Your Veggies: Chop romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces while slicing cherry tomatoes in half and dicing cucumber. Don’t forget to slice red onion thinly; it’ll add just enough zing.

Toss It All Together: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Crumble in that glorious bacon and diced chicken once cooked.

Add Your Dressing: Drizzle your chosen dressing over the top before gently tossing everything together until well coated. Make sure every piece shines!

Serve It Up: Plate your masterpiece in bowls or on plates—garnish with extra tomatoes or bacon bits if you’re feeling fancy! Enjoy cold or at room temperature.

Now you’ve got yourself an impressive dish that’s sure to be the star of any meal!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking the bacon until crispy, then sauté the seasoned chicken in the same pan to infuse flavor. While this happens, chop your veggies, creating an efficient workflow.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on availability; try avocado instead of mayonnaise for creaminess or add sweet corn for extra sweetness.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, consume cold without reheating to maintain texture.

There’s nothing quite like the first time I served this salad at a picnic—everyone raved about it! My aunt even asked for seconds—definitely a win!

FAQ

Can I use rotisserie chicken for my BLT Chicken Salad?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken saves time and adds great flavor.

What can I substitute for bacon?

Turkey bacon or smoked tempeh are excellent alternatives if you want to keep it lighter.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

It stays fresh for about three days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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BLT Chicken Salad

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• Author: mydishtoday
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BLT Chicken Salad is a refreshing summer dish that combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and crisp veggies for a delightful meal. Perfect for picnics, gatherings, or a light dinner.

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Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 medium cucumber, diced
• 1/2 medium red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing or balsamic vinaigrette

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Instructions

1. Preheat grill or skillet to medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper; cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), about 6-7 minutes per side.
2. In a separate pan, cook bacon until crispy (5-7 minutes). Drain on paper towels.
3. Chop lettuce, halve cherry tomatoes, dice cucumber, and slice red onion.
4. In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and onion. Crumble in the cooked bacon and diced chicken.
5. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 110mg