Do you ever find yourself craving a dish that perfectly balances flavors and textures in a single bowl? Imagine the crispy chew of bacon mingling with tender pieces of chicken, the freshness of cherry tomatoes, and the crunch of romaine lettuce, all coated in a creamy dressing. For those busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this Savory BLT Chicken Salad delivers just that satisfaction with minimal fuss.
Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it also adapts to various dietary needs and flavor preferences. This dish is a wonderful option for a quick lunch or a nutritious dinner that even kids will enjoy. With this recipe, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 15 minutes – a perfect solution for anyone looking to save time without sacrificing flavor. Dive into the savory goodness of Savory BLT Chicken Salad, and bring a delightful twist to your dining table!
Why Make This Recipe
Creating the Savory BLT Chicken Salad is an opportunity to enjoy multiple benefits. Firstly, you’ll appreciate the mouthwatering flavors that come together to create a satisfying meal. The salty crunch of bacon, juicy cherry tomatoes, and creamy dressing become a harmonious blend that elevates shredded chicken to new heights.
From a practical standpoint, this recipe is a time-saver. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, you can easily have a wholesome meal ready, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly, allowing you to use leftover chicken or even swap in pantry staples without breaking the bank.
Lastly, the versatility of this dish is unmatched. You can customize it easily by adding your favorite ingredients or swapping a few out for something different, making it adaptable for any taste and occasion.
How to Make Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: avocado, cheese, or croutons
Helpful Notes:
- You can find cooked chicken in grocery stores or prepare it yourself by poaching or grilling the chicken breasts.
- Feel free to substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise for a healthier twist without compromising creaminess.
- Chill the cooked ingredients, including the chicken, bacon, and dressing, if preferred.
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce. Gently toss the ingredients together for even distribution and visual appeal, making sure to keep the lettuce crisp.
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth. This should take about 1-2 minutes, creating a nice, creamy dressing.
Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine everything thoroughly. The goal is to ensure that all ingredients are well-coated without mashing or bruising the lettuce.
Serve immediately, or chill the salad in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes for a refreshing, cold salad.
How to Serve Savory BLT Chicken Salad
This dish is best served chilled, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. To enhance presentation, serve the salad in a large bowl or individual plates, garnished with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of crumbled cheese for added flair.
Pair your Savory BLT Chicken Salad with crusty bread or a light soup for a complete meal. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors wonderfully. If you’re hosting, consider serving this dish as part of a buffet alongside fresh fruit or vegetable platters.
How to Store Savory BLT Chicken Salad
To keep your Savory BLT Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can typically last for up to 3 days. If you’re considering freezing it, be aware that the texture of the lettuce may not hold up once frozen, so it’s best to freeze just the chicken and bacon mixture instead; it can stay good for about 2 months.
For reheating, the best method is to bring the chicken and bacon mixture to room temperature, then mix it with fresh lettuce and dressing. Always check for freshness before consuming leftovers; if it smells off or looks discolored, it’s better to err on the side of caution!
Tips to Make Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Prep Technique: Shred chicken while it’s still warm for easier handling and enhanced flavor absorption.
Ingredient Upgrade: Use artisan bacon or smoked chicken to elevate the dish’s taste and give it a gourmet feel.
Avoid Overcooking: When browning bacon, keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
Equipment Recommendation: If you don’t have a shredder, use two forks to easily pull apart the chicken.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the chicken and dressing a day in advance, but add the lettuce and tomatoes just before serving for maximum freshness.
Consistency Adjustment: If your dressing is too thick, thin it with a little bit of lemon juice or chicken broth for a smoother blend.
Flavor Enhancement: Adding a splash of hot sauce or fresh herbs like cilantro can provide an unexpected twist to the flavor profile.
Dietary Adaptation: For a dairy-free option, substitute mayonnaise with a vegan alternative made from cashews.
Leftover Transformation: Use leftovers to make wraps by adding whole wheat tortillas and your favorite veggies.
Pro Chef Secret: For a restaurant-style finish, drizzle a balsamic reduction over the salad before serving.
Variations
Wholesome Veggie Delight
Transform the Savory BLT Chicken Salad into a vegetarian treat by omitting the chicken and bacon and incorporating chickpeas and avocados. This variation offers a delightfully creamy texture and protein.
Spicy Southwest Chicken Salad
Add a kick to your meal by incorporating diced jalapeños, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime into your salad. It’s a fresh and zesty take on the classic recipe.
Mediterranean Bliss
For a Mediterranean twist, replace the bacon with olives and feta cheese. The salty brininess pairs exceptionally well with the chicken and salad, delivering a refreshing experience.
Low-Carb Delight
For a keto-friendly version, use lettuce wraps instead of romaine and swap the dressing with avocado-based dressing, making it a healthy, low-carb meal that’s still satisfying.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, bacon, and dressing ahead of time, keeping them stored separately. Mix everything just before serving to maintain the crunchiness of the lettuce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Ensure that the mixture is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze this dish?
While the salad won’t freeze well, you can freeze the chicken and bacon mixture. It will last up to two months. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator before mixing with fresh ingredients.
What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo can serve as excellent substitutes for mayonnaise in this recipe, providing creaminess with fewer calories or no cholesterol.
How do I prevent the salad from getting soggy?
To avoid sogginess, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and the salad from becoming watery.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, this Savory BLT Chicken Salad is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any additional ingredients you use (like croutons or certain brands of mayonnaise) are certified gluten-free.
Can I double/halve this recipe?
Certainly! Adjust the quantities according to your needs, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just a small gathering. Just be sure to maintain the same proportions for the ingredients to keep the taste consistent.
Indulge in this Savory BLT Chicken Salad and experience the wonder of combining classic flavors in a new and exciting way. Enjoy every savory bite!
Savory BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, and romaine lettuce. Gently toss the ingredients together for even distribution.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to combine thoroughly.
- Serve immediately, or chill the salad in the refrigerator for up to 30 minutes.