Name: BLT Chicken Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked chicken (chopped); 1 pound bacon (diced and cooked until crisp); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (cut in half); 1/2 small red onion (diced small); 2 stalks celery (diced); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (light); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Introduction to BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that has a delightful crunch and loads of flavor, look no further than BLT Chicken Salad. This salad creatively combines the classic flavors of a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich with tender chicken and various fresh ingredients. It’s the ultimate dish for anyone who wants to keep their meals light without compromising on taste.

What makes BLT Chicken Salad a favorite?

The appeal of BLT Chicken Salad lies in its versatility and simplicity. You can whip it up in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy professionals or anyone short on time. The combination of tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and fresh celery offers a satisfying crunch with each bite.

Plus, it’s not just delicious; it’s also a healthy option for lunch or dinner. By utilizing lighter ingredients, such as light mayonnaise, and loaded with protein, you’re supporting a balanced diet. According to nutrition experts, incorporating more lean proteins like chicken can boost your energy and keep you feeling fuller for longer.

Whether you serve it in a bowl, on a bed of greens, or as a filling for a wrap, this BLT Chicken Salad is sure to be a hit with family and friends. So grab those ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients for BLT Chicken Salad

When it comes to preparing a delicious BLT Chicken Salad, having the right ingredients is essential for the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful dish:

3 cups cooked chicken, chopped: Use shredded or diced chicken ham for a flavorful base.
1 pound turkey bacon, diced and cooked until crisp: This adds a satisfying crunch while keeping it lighter than traditional bacon.
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: For that fresh, juicy burst of flavor.
½ small red onion, finely diced: It adds a lovely sharpness that complements the other ingredients.
2 stalks celery, diced: For that necessary crunch and earthiness.
½ cup mayonnaise: I recommend using light mayonnaise for a healthier option.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: This brightens the flavors and adds zing.
Spices: Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper for seasoning.

These simple yet flavorful ingredients combine beautifully to create a hearty salad that’s perfect for lunch! Looking to learn more about how to perfectly cook shredded chicken? Check out this guide for tips!

Preparing BLT Chicken Salad

Creating a delicious and satisfying BLT Chicken Salad is a breeze when you follow these simple steps. With its rich flavors and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, and you can whip it up in just about 10 minutes. Let’s dive into the preparation process!

Gather your ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all the essential ingredients. This will not only streamline your process but also ensure that you have everything on hand for a smooth cooking experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (for tips on cooking shredded chicken, check out this link)
1 pound turkey bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
½ small red onion, diced small
2 stalks celery, diced
½ cup mayonnaise (light works well)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Having everything ready will make your cooking experience enjoyable and stress-free!

Cook the turkey bacon until crispy

Now that your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to cook the turkey bacon. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the diced turkey bacon. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s crispy. The sizzle in the pan? That’s your cue that deliciousness is on the way! Once done, place the bacon on a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease.

Combine the main ingredients

In a large bowl, it’s time to combine all the exciting flavors of the salad. Add the cooked chicken, crispy turkey bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and celery. Stir gently to mix the ingredients, ensuring that everything is evenly distributed. It’s colorful and vibrant, which is always a good sign of a delicious meal ahead!

Whisk together the dressing

While those ingredients mingle, let’s whip up the dressing! In a separate bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Whisk them together until smooth. The lemon juice adds a bright flavor that elevates the richness of the mayonnaise. Taste it to ensure it has the right balance — feel free to adjust salt and pepper to your liking!

Toss the salad in the dressing

Finally, pour the dressing over the salad mixture. Gently fold everything together until the salad is thoroughly coated in that creamy goodness. Serve it immediately for the best flavor, but if you’d like, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge — it stays fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Just remember, if it sits out for more than two hours, it’s best to toss those leftovers.

And there you have it! Your delicious BLT Chicken Salad is ready to be enjoyed. Whether you serve it in a bowl, on a bed of greens, or in a wrap, savor the delightful combo of flavors in each bite!

Variations on BLT Chicken Salad

BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado

Elevate your BLT Chicken Salad by adding creamy avocado. Simply cube one ripe avocado and gently fold it into the salad just before serving. The richness of the avocado complements the savory turkey bacon and juicy tomatoes, providing a delightful contrast in textures. Avocado also packs a nutritious punch with healthy fats, making this variation both delicious and beneficial for your diet. If you're looking for a wholesome lunch option, this twist is a game changer!

Spicy BLT Chicken Salad

For a bit of a kick, try making a Spicy BLT Chicken Salad. Toss in some diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce into the dressing for that extra zing. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an added punch. This variation is perfect for those who love a spicy twist and crave bold flavors in their meals. Pair it with whole-grain crackers or enjoy it in a lettuce wrap for an exciting lunch!

Feel free to explore more creative options and share your favorites. After all, the beauty of a BLT Chicken Salad lies in its versatility!

Cooking tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Making the perfect BLT Chicken Salad is simple and enjoyable! Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Cooking Chicken: If you’re starting with raw chicken, consider poaching or grilling for a juicy texture. For a quick solution, grab a rotisserie chicken from your local market.
Turkey Bacon: Cook your turkey bacon until crispy for the best crunch. You can use an oven or stovetop for even cooking.
Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe cherry tomatoes and fresh celery for that crisp, refreshing bite. The quality of these ingredients can make a big difference.
Customize Your Dressing: Feel free to tweak the mayo blend by adding herbs like dill or basil to enhance flavor.

For more insights on chicken preparation, check out this shredded chicken guide. Happy cooking!

Serving suggestions for BLT Chicken Salad

Looking for the perfect ways to enjoy your BLT Chicken Salad? You’re in luck! Here are some tasty serving suggestions that will elevate this dish:

On a Croissant: Scoop the BLT Chicken Salad onto a buttery croissant for a deliciously decadent lunch experience.
With Crackers: Serve it as a dip with your favorite whole grain or vegetable crackers for a light snack.
Over Greens: For a low-carb option, pile the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for added flavor.
In Wraps: Use lettuce leaves or whole grain tortillas to create wraps. It’s a great grab-and-go meal!

No matter how you serve it, this salad is sure to be a hit! For more recipe inspiration, check out sites like EatingWell for healthy ideas.

Time Breakdown for BLT Chicken Salad

Preparation Time

Getting started on your BLT Chicken Salad is a breeze! You'll only need about 10 minutes to gather your ingredients and chop everything up. Perfect for a quick lunch or an easy weeknight dinner!

Total Time

In just 10 minutes, you can serve a delicious and satisfying BLT Chicken Salad that brings the flavors of classic bacon, lettuce, and tomato to your plate in a nutritious way. Great food doesn’t always have to take hours to prepare!

Ready to dive into this simple yet delightful recipe? Check out the full instructions here for all the details!

Nutritional Facts for BLT Chicken Salad

Calories

A serving of BLT Chicken Salad contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet light option for lunch or dinner. It’s a great choice for health-conscious foodies or anyone seeking a flavorful, low-carb meal.

Protein

Packed with protein, this salad delivers about 30 grams per serving. With the combination of chicken and Turkey Bacon, it's an excellent source of lean protein, perfect for muscle building and keeping you energized throughout the day.

Sodium

Keep an eye on sodium intake; this delicious BLT Chicken Salad comes in at roughly 689 mg of sodium per serving. If you’re watching your sodium levels, consider using low-sodium Turkey Bacon or mayonnaise alternatives to tailor it to your dietary needs.

For more nutritional insights, check out resources like NutritionData or MyFitnessPal to better understand how to fit this salad into your daily intake goals.

FAQs about BLT Chicken Salad

Can I make BLT Chicken Salad ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, making BLT Chicken Salad a day in advance can enhance the flavors as they meld together. Simply prepare the salad and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to five days, making it perfect for meal prep. Just remember to stir it well before serving, as some ingredients may settle.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

If you’re looking for a lighter option or just prefer a different flavor, try using Greek yogurt for a tangy twist or avocado for a creamy texture. Both alternatives provide a delicious taste while adding nutritional benefits. You can even experiment with mustard or hummus for a unique flair!

How can I make it gluten-free?

Making your BLT Chicken Salad gluten-free is simple! All the ingredients in this recipe are inherently gluten-free, but always check for any hidden gluten in store-bought items. Opt for gluten-free sauces or condiments, and enjoy this salad worry-free! For more guidance on gluten-free diets, you can check out the Celiac Disease Foundation.

Conclusion on BLT Chicken Salad

In summary, this BLT Chicken Salad offers a delightful twist on a classic favorite, combining the heartiness of chicken with the crunch of turkey bacon and fresh veggies. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s a versatile, low-carb option that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. Enjoy!