The BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on two classic favorites, combining the smoky crunch of bacon, juicy tomatoes, and tender chicken into one irresistible dish. This salad is a perfect balance of creamy and crisp textures, brightened by just the right hint of lemon and seasoning, making it an ideal lunch, light dinner, or crowd-pleasing potluck addition. Every bite bursts with familiar flavors, yet feels fresh and satisfying, inviting you to savor this comforting yet refreshing salad again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of simple yet essential ingredients is all it takes to transform a few basics into a sensational BLT Chicken Salad. Each component plays a key role, from the crispiness of the bacon to the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes, creating a vibrant dish that’s as colorful as it is tasty.

Cooked chicken (3 cups): Use shredded or diced leftover chicken for a tender protein base that absorbs flavors beautifully.
Bacon, diced and cooked until crisp (1 pound): Adds irresistible smoky crunch that’s the heart of any BLT-inspired dish.
Cherry tomatoes, halved (1 cup): These add a juicy sweetness and vibrant red color to brighten up the salad.
Red onion, diced small (1/2 small): Provides a sharp but mild bite, balancing the richness of bacon and mayo.
Celery stalks, diced (2 stalks): Adds refreshing crunch and subtle earthiness that complements other textures.
Mayonnaise (1/2 cup, light recommended): Creates the creamy base to bind all ingredients together, making every bite luscious.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): A bright note that lifts the flavors and adds a touch of tanginess.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the distinct flavors without overwhelming them.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Provides a gentle garlicky warmth.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts the onion flavor subtly for extra depth.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle heat and finishes the seasoning perfectly.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Combine the Main Ingredients

Start by tossing together your cooked chicken, crispy diced bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and celery in a large mixing bowl. This blend gives you a wonderful combination of textures and layering of flavors that will shine once coated with the dressing.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a separate small bowl, whisk the mayonnaise with freshly squeezed lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. This homemade dressing is flavorful yet simple, perfectly complementing the main ingredients without overpowering their natural taste.

Step 3: Mix Salad and Dressing

Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and gently fold everything together until each bite is coated. Be careful not to overmix—you want the salad to maintain texture and that fresh look with colorful ingredients distinct but harmonized.

Step 4: Chill or Serve

You can enjoy the BLT Chicken Salad immediately for a fresh, vibrant meal or refrigerate it for a few hours to let the flavors meld even more. Stored in an airtight container, it will stay delicious for 3 to 5 days, making it a fantastic make-ahead option.

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

Garnishes

For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or chives on top to add a splash of green and a hint of herbaceous brightness. A few extra halved cherry tomatoes or crisp bacon bits scattered on the plate also elevate the presentation and provide little flavor bursts.

Side Dishes

This salad pairs beautifully with classic sides like freshly toasted bread, crusty baguette slices, or crisp tortilla chips for scooping. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables also complement the richness and keep the meal well-rounded and refreshing.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the BLT Chicken Salad inside halved avocado shells or hollowed cherry tomatoes to create bite-sized appetizers. Alternatively, pile it high on a bed of crunchy lettuce leaves for a light, low-carb lunch or even stuff the salad into pita pockets for handheld convenience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your BLT Chicken Salad fresh by storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3 to 5 days to enjoy maximum flavor and crisp textures. Always give it a quick stir before serving to redistribute the dressing and freshen up the ingredients.

Freezing

This particular salad doesn’t freeze well because the mayonnaise and fresh vegetables would lose their appealing texture upon thawing. It’s best to enjoy the salad fresh or refrigerated, rather than frozen.

Reheating

This salad is designed to be served cold or at room temperature. Reheating isn’t recommended as it may alter the texture and flavor, especially with the bacon and fresh veggies. If you prefer, let chilled salad sit out a few minutes before serving for added softness.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for the BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds juicy, flavorful meat without extra effort. Just shred or dice it before combining with your other ingredients for a quick and delicious salad.

What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

If you want a lighter or different twist, Greek yogurt or a blend of yogurt and a little mayo works well as a substitute, keeping the creaminess while adding a subtle tang. Just adjust seasonings to taste.

Is it possible to make this salad vegan-friendly?

You can try by swapping chicken for chickpeas or tofu and using vegan bacon alternatives and plant-based mayo. While the flavor profile will change, you’ll still enjoy a tasty, satisfying salad inspired by the BLT Chicken Salad concept.

Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even corn for extra crunch and color. Just be mindful that new ingredients could alter the classic BLT balance.

How long does this salad last in the fridge?

The BLT Chicken Salad keeps well for 3 to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. Always check for freshness before eating, and discard if it’s been out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort, freshness, and a hint of indulgence all in one bowl, this BLT Chicken Salad is your new go-to dinner or lunch option. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll want to share again and again. So grab those ingredients and dive into the delicious layers of this endlessly satisfying salad.