BLT Chicken Salad: A Perfect Summer Dish with a Twist

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke the warmth of summer like a classic BLT (Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato) sandwich. The crispy, savory bacon paired with juicy, ripe tomatoes and crisp lettuce is a combination that has stood the test of time. But what if you could combine the best elements of a BLT sandwich with the creamy, satisfying texture of a chicken salad? That’s where this BLT Chicken Salad comes into play.

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This delightful recipe takes the components of a BLT and transforms them into a creamy, savory chicken salad that is perfect for summer picnics, potlucks, or even a quick and easy weeknight dinner. Instead of bacon, we’ve opted for a more universally loved protein: chicken. The savory chicken pairs perfectly with the tomatoes, fresh vegetables, and a rich, creamy dressing that will have you coming back for seconds.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. It can be served on a bed of lettuce for a light and refreshing dish, stuffed in a sandwich for a satisfying meal, or even turned into a grilled cheese sandwich for an indulgent treat. Whether you’re making it for a crowd or preparing a simple meal for yourself, this BLT Chicken Salad is a recipe that you’ll want to keep on hand.

Ingredients Breakdown: What You’ll Need for BLT Chicken Salad

Before diving into the preparation of this delicious chicken salad, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients. Each component adds a unique texture and flavor, making this salad a standout dish for any occasion.

Chicken:

• 4 cups of cooked chicken (shredded or sliced)
  The base of this chicken salad is, of course, chicken. The recipe calls for cooked, shredded or sliced chicken, making it ideal for using up leftovers from a rotisserie chicken or any other chicken that has been pre-cooked. The chicken is the heart of the salad, providing a juicy and tender texture that contrasts beautifully with the crispy bacon (or chicken, in this case) and the creamy dressing. If you’re short on time, you can also use canned chicken as a substitute.

Bacon (or Beef):

• 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled (or beef alternative)
  Bacon is known for its crispiness and saltiness, which add a nice contrast to the creamy components of this salad. But if you’re looking for a different protein option or simply want to skip the bacon, feel free to substitute with crumbled beef or grilled chicken. For beef, cook it thoroughly, season it with a touch of salt, pepper, and perhaps a bit of garlic powder, and crumble it into small pieces to mimic the texture of bacon.

Tomatoes:

• 1 cup of diced tomatoes
  Fresh, ripe tomatoes are a must for this salad. Their juiciness adds a wonderful contrast to the richness of the chicken and dressing. The burst of flavor they provide is refreshing and perfectly complements the savory elements of the dish.

Vegetables:

• 1/2 cup of diced celery (optional)
  Celery gives the salad a delightful crunch and freshness. It adds a touch of earthy flavor that rounds out the other ingredients. If you’re not a fan of celery, feel free to leave it out or swap it for another crunchy vegetable, like cucumber or bell peppers.
• 1/4 cup of red onion, finely diced
  Red onions provide a mild, tangy flavor that helps balance the richness of the chicken and the dressing. They also add a pop of color to the salad, making it visually appealing.
• 1/4 cup of green onions, thinly sliced
  Green onions (also known as scallions) offer a mild, almost sweet onion flavor that brightens the salad without overpowering the other ingredients. The thin slices add a nice aesthetic touch to the dish.

Creamy Dressing:

• 1/2 cup of mayonnaise (or sour cream)
  The base of the dressing is mayonnaise, which provides a rich, creamy texture. You can substitute with sour cream for a tangier flavor or even use Greek yogurt if you prefer a lighter dressing.
• 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
  The acidity from the vinegar or lemon juice adds brightness and helps balance the richness of the mayonnaise. It cuts through the creaminess and adds a nice depth of flavor.
• Herbs and Spices:
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill
  • 1/2 teaspoon of dried chives
  • 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon of onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon of pepper
  These herbs and spices work together to create a flavor profile that is reminiscent of ranch dressing. The parsley, dill, and chives add an herby freshness, while the garlic powder and onion powder provide a savory depth of flavor. The salt and pepper are essential for seasoning and enhancing the overall taste of the salad.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to prepare this mouthwatering BLT Chicken Salad. The best part about this recipe is how simple and quick it is to make. With just a few easy steps, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying dish ready to serve in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by cooking and shredding or slicing your chicken. If you’re using leftover chicken or a rotisserie chicken, simply shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces. If you’re cooking the chicken fresh, grill, bake, or pan-fry the chicken until it’s fully cooked. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, shred it with a fork or slice it into thin strips.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon (or Beef)

Next, cook your bacon (or beef) until it’s crispy. If you’re using bacon, cook it in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Once done, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease, then crumble it into small pieces.

If you’re using beef, brown it in a skillet, ensuring it’s fully cooked. Crumble it into small pieces, just like you would with the bacon.

Step 3: Dice the Vegetables

While your chicken and bacon (or beef) are cooking, take the time to dice your tomatoes, celery (if using), red onions, and green onions. This step is crucial for ensuring that all the ingredients are evenly distributed in the salad, which makes every bite perfectly balanced.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise (or sour cream), apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), and all the herbs and spices: parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like your dressing a little tangier, add more vinegar or lemon juice to taste.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon (or beef), diced tomatoes, celery, red onions, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until it’s well-coated. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed, so every bite is filled with flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Your BLT Chicken Salad is now ready to serve! You can enjoy it in several ways:

• In Lettuce Boats: For a low-carb option, spoon the chicken salad into fresh lettuce leaves, such as romaine or iceberg. The crisp lettuce provides a perfect vessel for the creamy salad, and each bite feels light and refreshing.
• In Sandwiches: Spread the salad on your favorite bread and top with extra lettuce and tomato for a more substantial meal. You can also use a soft roll or a crusty baguette for a delicious twist.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a heartier option, spread the chicken salad between two slices of bread and grill it like a traditional grilled cheese sandwich. The creamy chicken salad melts with the cheese, creating a delightful fusion of textures and flavors.

Tips for Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly flexible and allows for several variations depending on your dietary preferences or what ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the Protein: If you prefer, you can substitute the chicken with turkey or even grilled beef. For a more plant-based version, try using chickpeas or tofu as the base for the salad.
• Add Avocado: For an extra creamy texture and rich flavor, add some diced avocado to the salad. The creamy avocado complements the chicken and dressing perfectly.
• Use Greek Yogurt: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. This will give the salad a tangier flavor and a slightly different texture.
• Try Different Herbs: If you don’t have all the dried herbs on hand, feel free to experiment with other seasonings like basil, oregano, or thyme for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for any summer occasion, whether you’re serving it at a picnic, a family gathering, or just as a simple weeknight dinner. Pair it with a light side dish, such as a fresh green salad or some crispy baked fries, for a well-rounded meal.

For a festive touch, serve it in individual bowls or lettuce boats, allowing guests to customize their servings. You can also make a salad bar by offering various toppings, such as crumbled cheese, sliced olives, or even pickled onions.

Final Thoughts

BLT Chicken Salad is the perfect dish to enjoy on a warm summer day, combining all the classic flavors of a BLT sandwich with the creamy, comforting texture of chicken salad. With its balance of savory, tangy, and fresh ingredients, this dish is sure to please everyone at your table. Whether served in lettuce boats, sandwiches, or grilled cheese form, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and enjoy the wonderful flavors of this easy, delicious, and satisfying salad. Happy cooking!