As the sun warms my kitchen, I can’t help but daydream about lazy summer picnics filled with laughter and light bites. That’s where my Healthy BLT Chicken Salad comes into play—it perfectly marries the iconic flavors of a classic BLT with shredded chicken, creating a delightful twist on a traditional favorite. This easy-to-make salad not only transforms your lunch routine but also keeps it low-carb, making it a guilt-free option for those busy days. Whether you’re savoring it on its own or stuffing it into a fluffy sandwich, this recipe is a fantastic way to elevate your homemade meals. Curious how to whip up this exciting dish? Let’s dive in!

Why is BLT Chicken Salad so enjoyable?

Freshness Guaranteed: Each bite bursts with the tangy flavor of fresh ingredients, from juicy tomatoes to crisp bacon.
Easy Prepping: With just a handful of steps, this recipe is a breeze to whip up even on the busiest days, making it perfect for meal preppers.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Low-carb and light, this salad fits seamlessly into any healthy eating plan while still delivering that satisfying comfort food vibe.
Versatile Serving Options: Whether enjoyed on its own, in lettuce wraps, or packed in sandwiches, you can easily customize how you serve it. For a delightful twist, check out my Cranberry Orange Chicken for another wholesome option!
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: It’s a surefire hit with family and friends, making it an ideal dish for picnics or potlucks. You’ll quickly find this salad becoming a staple in your go-to recipes!

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad
• Cooked Chicken (3 cups) – Use shredded rotisserie chicken or quickly prepare it by boiling or using an Instant Pot for convenience.
• Bacon (1 pound) – Diced and cooked until crisp for the perfect savory flavor and crunch.
• Cherry Tomatoes (1 cup) – Halved to add freshness and juiciness, replacing traditional grapes in chicken salad.
• Red Onion (1/2 small) – Diced small to offer sharpness and bite without overwhelming the mix.
• Celery (2 stalks) – Diced for that delightful crunch that complements the other ingredients.

For the Dressing
• Mayonnaise (1/2 cup) – This creamy base binds the salad together; light mayonnaise can be a healthier choice.
• Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon) – Adds brightness and acidity; use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Enhances overall flavor; adjust according to taste.
• Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Provides depth and a lovely aromatic note.
• Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon) – Complements the onion for an extra layer of flavor.
• Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon) – Provides mild heat and seasoning to elevate your salad.

With these simple yet vibrant ingredients, your BLT Chicken Salad will shine as a fresh, easy lunch option that’s perfect for any day!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Salad Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 cups of shredded cooked chicken, 1 pound of crispy diced bacon, 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, ½ small diced red onion, and 2 stalks of diced celery. Use a wooden spoon to gently toss these ingredients together until they’re evenly distributed, creating a colorful base for your refreshing BLT Chicken Salad.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing
In a separate small bowl, whisk together ½ cup of mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper. Blend the ingredients until smooth, ensuring the dressing is well combined and light in texture—this will elevate your BLT Chicken Salad with its tangy flavors.

Step 3: Combine the Salad with the Dressing
Pour the prepared dressing over the chicken mixture, and use a spatula to fold everything together gently. Mix until the chicken, bacon, and veggies are evenly coated in the creamy dressing, creating a delectable fusion of flavors and textures. You’ll know it’s ready when every ingredient shines with that delightful coating.

Step 4: Serve or Store
Enjoy the BLT Chicken Salad immediately for the freshest experience, or transfer it to an airtight container for refrigeration. If storing, consume within 3-5 days to ensure optimal freshness. Remember, if left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours, it’s best to discard it for food safety.

BLT Chicken Salad Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to customize this delightful salad to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences!

Canned Chicken: Use canned chicken for an easy, time-saving option without sacrificing flavor.
Bell Peppers: Replace celery with diced bell peppers to introduce a sweet crunch and a pop of color.
Greek Yogurt: Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier dressing that adds creaminess.
Lettuce Wraps: Serve the salad in lettuce leaves instead of bread for a completely low-carb version.
Herb Infusion: Mix in chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to elevate the freshness of your salad.
Avocado Boost: Add diced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats that make every bite indulgent.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños for a little heat that complements the savory bacon beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in some toasted walnuts or pecans for an additional layer of flavor and crunch.

If you’re intrigued to explore other flavors, try swapping out your traditional chicken recipes with something like my Garlic Butter Chicken or enjoy a burger spin with the Sweet Chili Chicken recipe!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Room Temperature: Best served immediately; discard if left out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Fridge: Store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Always check for freshness before enjoying.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended, as it can change the texture of ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes.
Reheating: This salad is best enjoyed cold; avoid reheating to maintain its crunchy texture and freshness.

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Crispy Bacon Matters: Cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crisp but not burnt, as the texture plays a crucial role in the salad’s overall appeal.
Verify Chicken Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F if boiling or cooking to guarantee safe consumption.
Season to Taste: Start with less salt and pepper in your dressing; you can always add more, but adjusting an overly salty salad is trickier.
Storage Wisdom: Keep your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container to maintain its freshness for up to 5 days, checking for quality before serving.
Fresh Ingredients Shine: Always opt for fresh vegetables like firm cherry tomatoes and crisp celery for the best flavor and texture in your salad.

Make Ahead Options

These BLT Chicken Salad ingredients are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious lunches with ease! You can prepare the chicken mixture (cooked chicken, bacon, tomatoes, red onion, and celery) up to 24 hours in advance by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and prevent sogginess, keep the dressing (mayonnaise, lemon juice, spices) separate until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy your salad, simply stir the dressing into the chicken mixture, and you’ll have a tasty, satisfying meal that feels just as fresh as when you made it!

What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad?

As you relish the vibrant flavors of your BLT Chicken Salad, consider these delightful accompaniments that will elevate your meal experience even further.

Creamy Avocado Toast: This buttery, smooth delight contrasts beautifully with the texture of the salad, making each bite a taste sensation.
Crisp Vegetable Platter: Fresh, crunchy veggies such as carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers sprinkled with a light dip keep the table colorful and lively.
Garlic Breadsticks: The warm, toasty aroma of garlic breadsticks adds a heartwarming touch that complements the freshness of the salad perfectly.
Quinoa Salad: A light and nutty quinoa salad packed with herbs and lemon offers a wholesome side, enhancing the freshness of your chicken salad.
Seasoned Jicama Sticks: Light and crispy, jicama sticks sprinkled with lime and chili powder provide a refreshing, low-carb alternative that harmonizes with the flavors.
Sparkling Lemonade: A refreshing glass of sparkling lemonade brightens the meal, pairing wonderfully with the savory notes of the salad.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finally, a sweet ending with soft, chewy cookies provides the ultimate comfort, creating a delightful balance to the savory main course.

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken should I use for the BLT Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience or cook your own by boiling or using an Instant Pot. Just ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

How should I store leftover BLT Chicken Salad?
Store your BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-5 days. Always check for freshness; if it looks or smells off, it’s safer to discard it!

Can I freeze BLT Chicken Salad?
Freezing is not recommended for this salad, as ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes may lose their crisp texture once thawed. Instead, enjoy it fresh from the fridge for the best experience!

What should I do if my salad turns out too salty?
No worries! If your BLT Chicken Salad ends up too salty, try adding extra shredded chicken or diced vegetables like celery or cherry tomatoes to balance out the saltiness. A little bit of lime or lemon juice can also help brighten and enhance the flavors.

Are there any allergenic ingredients in this salad?
Yes! The BLT Chicken Salad contains common allergens like mayo (which may contain eggs) and bacon (which may contain gluten in certain brands). If you’re cooking for someone with specific allergies, consider using a gluten-free mayo and checking your bacon’s ingredients carefully.

What variations can I try with the BLT Chicken Salad?
Feel free to swap out the cooked chicken for canned or grilled chicken for a quicker option. You can also replace celery with diced bell peppers for a new crunch or use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter dressing. For a low-carb feast, serve it in lettuce wraps!