As I tossed the vibrant ingredients together, the savory scent of crispy bacon filled my kitchen, instantly transporting me to summer picnics and lazy afternoons. This BLT Chicken Salad blends the beloved flavors of a classic BLT sandwich into a satisfying dish that’s not only packed with protein but also low in carbs, making it a perfect choice for anyone seeking quick and healthy meals. With tender chicken, juicy tomatoes, and a creamy dressing, this salad is a breeze to whip up and incredibly versatile—whether served in crunchy lettuce wraps or buttery croissants. Imagine diving into a bowl full of crunchy textures and delightful tastes, all while keeping your meal prep light and effortless. How do you like your salad—heaped on fresh bread or elegantly wrapped in greens?

Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad

Flavorful Twist: This recipe takes the classic BLT and combines it with tender chicken, creating an irresistible blend of savory and vibrant flavors. Quick to Prepare: Whip this salad up in no time—perfect for those busy weekdays or unexpected guests. Versatile: Enjoy it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or stuffed into croissants for an upgraded lunch. Healthy Choice: With low carbs and high protein, it’s a fantastic option for those on a keto diet. For more delightful chicken ideas, check out Honey Pepper Chicken or Garlic Chicken Gnocchi. Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead for the week and enjoy fresh, delicious flavors any day!

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cooked Chicken (3 cups) – The base protein that adds heartiness; for convenience, substitute with rotisserie chicken or canned chicken.
• Bacon (1 pound) – Adds a crispy texture and savory flavor; be sure to cook until crisp for the best bite.
• Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup) – Introduces sweetness and juiciness; cut in half or swap with grape tomatoes if desired.
• Red Onion (1/2 small, diced) – Brings a sharpness and colorful touch; a fine dice ensures a milder flavor in every bite.
• Celery (2 stalks, diced) – Adds crunch and a refreshing hint; diced cucumber can serve as a cool replacement.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – This creamy base binds everything together; opt for light mayo for a healthier twist.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Provides a zing of acidity and brightness; fresh lemon juice reigns supreme for flavor.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – A must to enhance all flavors; adjust according to taste.
• Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Adds depth to the dressing; consider using fresh minced garlic for a more intense flavor.
• Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Complements the onion taste; simply omit if onion isn’t your favorite.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Delivers a subtle hint of heat; feel free to increase based on personal preference.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of cooked chicken, 1 pound of crisp diced bacon, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, ½ small diced red onion, and 2 diced celery stalks. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently stir these ingredients together until well mixed. The vibrant colors of the ingredients should be eye-catching as you prepare your BLT Chicken Salad, ensuring an appetizing presentation.

Step 2: Make the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and creamy, with a well-blended consistency. The dressing should be rich and fragrant, setting the stage for the delicious fusion of flavors in your salad.

Step 3: Combine the Dressing and Salad
Once the dressing is prepared, pour it over the chicken salad mixture in the large bowl. Using a spatula, fold the dressing gently into the salad, ensuring every ingredient is coated without squishing the tomatoes or celery. Aim for a uniform blend where the creamy dressing binds all the flavors together for your delightful BLT Chicken Salad.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, take a moment to taste the salad. This is your chance to make adjustments! If needed, add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice according to your taste preferences. Remember, the right balance will enhance the fresh flavors of the chicken, bacon, and vegetables, creating a perfect harmony in your BLT Chicken Salad.

Step 5: Serve or Store
You can serve the BLT Chicken Salad immediately, or for enhanced flavors, let it chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. If you’re storing leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container. Enjoy it fresh for up to 3 to 5 days, but remember to discard any that has been left unrefrigerated for over 2 hours for optimal safety.

Make Ahead Options

These BLT Chicken Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep! You can cook the bacon and chop the vegetables (red onion, celery, and cherry tomatoes) up to 3 days in advance. Store these components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. For the chicken, you can use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken to save time, and it can also be prepped and stored up to 3 days in advance. When you’re ready to serve, simply mix the prepared ingredients with the dressing for a quick and satisfying meal. This allow you to enjoy delicious flavors without the hassle during busy weeknights, ensuring your BLT Chicken Salad tastes just as delightful!

What to Serve With BLT Chicken Salad

A delightful meal starts with the refreshing crunch of flavors, perfect for any occasion!

Buttery Croissants: These flaky, rich pastries provide a luxurious base for your salad, turning lunch into a special treat. Imagine each bite, filled with creamy chicken salad nestled in soft, airy croissants.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Golden and crispy, sweet potato fries add a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that beautifully contrasts with the savory salad. They’re a wonderful side that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light, mixed greens salad with a zesty vinaigrette provides an excellent balance to the creamy, hearty chicken salad. Toss in cucumbers and carrots for extra crunch and color.
Cool Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, a cucumber salad dressed with vinegar or yogurt enhances the overall freshness of your meal. Its crispness perfectly complements the BLT Chicken Salad, making it a lovely pairing.
Savory Cheese Crackers: Offering a delightful crunch, cheese crackers are perfect for dipping and can elevate your salad experience. Pairing these with a small dollop of the chicken salad makes for a fun finger food option.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly and refreshing drink, sparkling lemonade offers a zesty lift that pairs nicely with the flavors of the salad. Its citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the lemon in the dressing.
Fresh Fruit Platter: A colorful array of seasonal fruits such as berries, melons, and grapes brings a sweet touch to your meal. The natural sweetness of the fruit is a perfect balance to the savory salad, keeping things light and festive.
Mini Quiches: These delightful mini pastries filled with eggs and cheese make for a hearty side. Their fluffy texture contrasts wonderfully with the creaminess of the chicken salad while adding a gourmet touch.

Let your meal shine by choosing one (or a few!) of these delightful pairings to enhance your BLT Chicken Salad.

BLT Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to get creative with this delightful salad, making it your own with these fun twists!

Greek Yogurt: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter and tangy version that adds a creamy richness without the extra calories. This swap keeps the salad refreshing and adds a good protein boost.
Fruit Crunch: Replace celery with diced apples for a juicy and sweet twist. The apples not only provide crunch but also a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of bacon and chicken.
Different Proteins: Switch up the chicken for cooked turkey or shrimp for an exciting variation. Each protein brings its unique flavor profile, keeping your lunches exciting and new.
Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a zesty kick. The heat enhances each bite, transforming the salad into a spicy sensation!
Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to elevate the flavors. Chopped herbs add a vibrant freshness and a burst of color that’s hard to resist.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for extra texture and flavor. The nuts lend a delightful crunch and addition of healthy fats that will keep you satisfied.

For more delicious chicken recipes, you might enjoy my Herb Roasted Chicken or try something different with a Chimichurri Grilled Chicken bowl!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days. This ensures the flavors meld while keeping everything fresh.

Freezer: It’s best not to freeze this salad since the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables may separate. Enjoy it fresh for optimal taste and texture.

Reheating: If you have leftover components like chicken or bacon, you can warm them gently in the microwave. However, avoid reheating the salad itself to retain its crunch.

Serving Cold: For the best experience, serve your BLT Chicken Salad chilled. A cool temperature enhances the vibrant flavors and refreshing textures!

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Crispy Bacon Essential: Ensure your bacon is cooked until crispy for the best texture. Soggy bacon can dampen the salad’s overall enjoyment.
Check Chicken Temperature: Use a thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F. This ensures your BLT Chicken Salad is safe and delicious.
Freshness Matters: Wrap and store leftovers properly in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Discard if left unrefrigerated for over 2 hours to avoid foodborne illness.
Dressing Adjustments: Taste the dressing before combining it with the salad. Don’t hesitate to tweak salt or lemon juice for the perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to substitute ingredients based on personal preference. For example, swap the celery with diced apples to add a sweet crunch to your BLT Chicken Salad.

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe cherry tomatoes for this salad?
Absolutely! When choosing cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are vibrant in color, with a firm texture. They should feel slightly heavy for their size, and avoid any with wrinkles or dark spots, as these can indicate overripeness or spoilage.

How should I store leftover BLT Chicken Salad?
Very! Place any leftover salad in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 5 days, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just be sure to discard any salad left out for more than 2 hours to keep it safe to eat.

Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
I recommend against freezing this salad! The mayonnaise and fresh vegetables may become watery and lose their appealing texture once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal flavor and crunch.

What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
Not an issue! You can easily substitute with rotisserie chicken for convenience, or even opt for canned chicken if you’re in a hurry. Just make sure it’s well-drained and shredded for the best results in your tasty BLT Chicken Salad.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Definitely! If you are catering to someone with a mayonnaise allergy, consider using Greek yogurt as an alternative for the dressing. Also, keep in mind that bacon can be high in sodium, so using turkey bacon might be a healthier option while still giving that crispy texture!

How can I ensure my bacon stays crispy in the salad?
The key is to cook your bacon until it’s nicely crisped before adding it to the salad. Allow it to cool slightly before dicing, then fold it gently into the mixture. If you have any leftover bacon, store it separately, and add it just before serving to retain that delightful crunch.