As I wandered the bustling aisles of my local market, the enticing aroma of crispy bacon wafted through the air, instantly taking me back to those sunny summer picnics where sandwiches ruled the day. This easy BLT Chicken Salad captures that beloved flavor combo while offering a healthy twist that makes it perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re tackling a busy workweek or simply craving a satisfying lunch that won’t weigh you down, this recipe is your go-to solution. Packed with protein and delightful crunch, it’s a timeless classic reimagined for today’s health-conscious home chef. Ready to elevate your lunch game with this tasty and nutritious option? Let’s dive in!

Why is this BLT Chicken Salad a must-try?

Satisfying Crunch: Each bite is packed with creamy, crunchy goodness from the crispy bacon and fresh veggies, reminding you of classic BLT flavors you adore.

Meal Prep Champion: This salad is perfect for busy life. It’s quick to make and stays fresh for up to 4 days, making your weeknights simpler.

Healthy Twist: High in protein and low-carb, it’s a guilt-free delight, especially when served with a side of crunchy cucumber slices or kettle chips.

Customizable & Versatile: Feel free to switch things up by adding ingredients like diced pickles or replacing the bacon with chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Deliciously Nostalgic: Bring back memories of sunny picnics with a modern, healthy flair that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for nutrition.

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Base

Rotisserie Chicken – Main protein that adds flavor; choosing different seasonings like lemon-herb can enhance the taste.
Mayonnaise – Acts as a creamy base for the salad; Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a lighter option.
Greek Yogurt – Provides tanginess and creaminess; if preferred, you can add more mayo instead.

For the Crunch

Crispy Bacon – The star ingredient that brings a satisfying crunch; go for extra crispy for the best texture.
Chopped Green Onions – Adds freshness with a mild onion flavor; can be replaced with diced red onions in a pinch.

For the Freshness

Diced Tomatoes – Offers juicy sweetness and a pop of color; store separately to maintain their freshness.
Avocado – Enhances creaminess when added just before serving; keep it separate until ready to enjoy to prevent browning.

For Seasoning

Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing the flavor profile; adjust to taste and feel free to add other spices if desired.

Dive into this delightful BLT Chicken Salad and experience a hearty meal prep option that’s as delicious as it is nutritious!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup of mayonnaise and 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt. Whisk together until completely smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This creamy base will provide a rich flavor for your BLT chicken salad. Aim to do this step in about 2-3 minutes to ensure a well-mixed dressing.

Step 2: Season the Mixture
Add salt and pepper to the combined mayonnaise and Greek yogurt according to your taste preference. Mix thoroughly for an even distribution of flavor throughout the dressing. This step should take another minute, enhancing the overall deliciousness of your BLT chicken salad.

Step 3: Fold in Chicken and Bacon
Next, shred your rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the bowl along with 1 cup of crispy bacon, crumbled into small bits. Gently fold these ingredients into the dressing for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well-coated and the flavors meld together. The chicken will absorb the delicious creamy mixture.

Step 4: Incorporate Green Onions
Once the chicken and bacon are well-mixed, add in 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. Carefully fold them in, taking care not to mash the chicken pieces. This step adds a nice crunch and fresh flavor to the BLT chicken salad, which should take about 1 minute.

Step 5: Add Tomatoes
Gently fold in 1 cup of diced tomatoes, making sure to keep them intact for added texture in your salad. This process should be done softly to avoid mashing the tomatoes, adding approximately 1-2 minutes to your preparation time. The bright, juicy tomatoes will enhance both the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.

Step 6: Final Adjustments
Taste the salad mixture, and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a bit more salt or pepper—add it now! This step helps fine-tune the flavor profile of your BLT chicken salad to ensure every bite is just right, taking about 1 minute of your time.

Step 7: Mix in Avocado
Just before serving, add 1 diced avocado to the salad and gently mix it in. This last step adds creaminess and richness to the dish, making it feel decadent. Aim to do this right before serving, so the avocado stays fresh and bright, which should take about 1 minute.

Step 8: Chill and Serve
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate the salad for at least 1 hour to let the flavors mingle and develop. This resting period is crucial for creating a flavorful BLT chicken salad, allowing you to prepare other meal components or relax while waiting! Serve chilled, ideally within 3-4 days for maximum freshness.

Make Ahead Options

This BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious lunch with minimal effort during your busy week! You can prepare the salad up to 24 hours in advance by mixing your rotisserie chicken, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, crispy bacon, and green onions. To maintain freshness, keep the diced tomatoes and avocado separate until just before serving, as they can lose their texture and flavor if added early. When ready to enjoy, gently fold in the tomatoes and avocado, and serve chilled. Trust me, this salad will taste just as delicious and satisfying, giving you time back in your day!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days to retain freshness and flavor. Ensure that tomatoes and avocado are kept separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent browning.

Freezer: Not recommended for freezing due to the creamy texture of the dressing and the potential for sogginess in the vegetables. Enjoy your BLT chicken salad fresh for the best taste!

Reheating: There’s no need to reheat this salad, as it is best served cold. Simply enjoy it straight from the fridge or pack it for lunch.

Portioning: For meal prep, consider portioning out individual servings right after preparation, separating crispy bacon and avocado until ready to eat for optimal freshness.

BLT Chicken Salad Variations & Substitutions

Get ready to personalize your BLT chicken salad with these delightful twists that add new flavor dimensions!

Vegetarian Option: Replace bacon with crispy chickpeas for a hearty crunch that’s wholly plant-based and equally satisfying. Chickpeas will soak up the salad’s flavors, giving you that wonderful texture without the meat.
Creamy Cottage Cheese: Swap Greek yogurt for creamy cottage cheese to introduce a different texture while keeping the zing. The creaminess pairs beautifully with the chicken, adding a fresh feel that elevates your meal.
Flavor Infusion: Use herb-infused rotisserie chicken for an extra layer of savory flavor, taking your salad to new heights. Experiment with lemon herb or garlic varieties to make it even more delectable.
Low-Carb Wraps: Serve the salad in lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread for a satisfying, low-carb twist. Crisp lettuce leaves cradle the flavorful filling, perfect for a refreshing lunch option.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add diced cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch and vibrant color. They enhance the salad’s freshness, creating a more complex and enjoyable texture.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a zesty twist that spices things up. This spicy addition keeps your taste buds dancing and adds an exciting new dimension.
Savory Pesto Delight: Mix in a tablespoon of pesto for a basil-infused flavor burst. It brings rich and colorful elements to your salad, providing a fancy feel to your meal prep.
Dazzling Dressings: Try a balsamic vinaigrette as an alternative dressing for a tangy kick. This twist is perfect for those who want a zesty change that still complements the classic BLT experience.

Feel free to explore these ideas while preparing your delightful salad, and make sure to check out my other recipes for Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Parmesan Chicken to keep your meals exciting!

What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad

Elevate your mealtime with delightful sides and drinks that beautifully complement this satisfying salad.

Crispy Kettle Chips: Their crunch and salty flavor are a perfect foil for the creamy salad, adding a satisfying texture. Enjoy the contrast as you savor each bite.
Refreshing Cucumber Slices: Cool and crisp, cucumbers add a light, refreshing element that cuts through the richness of the salad, making your meal feel balanced.
Pickle Spears: The tangy zing from pickle spears enhances the savory flavor of the BLT chicken salad, creating a well-rounded combination you won’t forget.
Whole Grain Crackers: Pair with your salad for an additional source of crunch. Their nutty flavor brings out the intricate seasonings of the chicken salad, enhancing every bite.
Chilled Iced Tea: A gentle herbal iced tea refreshes your palate, providing a soothing sip that complements the robust flavors of the salad without overpowering.
Creamy Avocado Toast: This rich and creamy side pairs impeccably, allowing the beloved flavors of the BLT chicken salad to shine while adding a luxurious touch to your meal.
Light Fruit Salad: A fruity medley adds a sweet contrast, balancing the savory elements of the chicken salad and bringing a vibrant touch to your plate.
Sparkling Lemonade: The citrusy fizz adds a refreshing twist to your meal, perfectly cleansing your palate between bites of the tasty salad.

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Shred Warm Chicken: Shred the rotisserie chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling and better flavor absorption into the dressing.
Keep Bacon Crispy: Store crispy bacon separately and sprinkle it on just before serving to maintain its crunchiness and avoid sogginess.
Prep for Freshness: Pack portions of tomatoes and avocado separately to keep them fresh and avoid browning until you’re ready to enjoy your meal.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the salad before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. This ensures the BLT chicken salad is perfectly seasoned for maximum flavor.
Experiment with Ingredients: Feel free to customize your salad with ingredients like diced pickles or chickpeas for a vegetarian twist to enhance texture and flavor.

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I choose a ripe avocado for my BLT Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! When selecting an avocado, look for one that yields slightly to gentle pressure; this indicates it’s ripe and ready to use. If you see dark spots all over, it might be overripe. For the freshest flavor in your salad, use the avocado just before serving to prevent browning.

How should I store my BLT Chicken Salad?
You can store your salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To keep the tomatoes and avocado fresh, I suggest packing them separately until you’re ready to enjoy your meal. This method preserves the texture and flavor beautifully!

Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
It’s not recommended to freeze BLT Chicken Salad. The creamy dressing and fresh vegetables may not hold up well, leading to a soggy texture upon thawing. Instead, enjoy it fresh for the best taste. It’s a delightful dish meant to be savored right away!

What if my chicken is too dry for the salad?
If your rotisserie chicken turns out too dry, try adding a bit more mayo or Greek yogurt to the dressing. This will help to moisten the chicken and enhance the overall flavor. You can also consider adding a splash of chicken broth during mixing for more moisture.

Is this salad suitable for my gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This BLT Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free, made from wholesome ingredients. Just be mindful of any additional components, like crackers, which can contain gluten. Enjoy it as a fresh and nutritious option without any worries!