When I first tried to make a chicken salad that combined the best parts of a classic BLT sandwich bacon, lettuce, and tomato with juicy chicken, I was hooked. This dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. It’s quick to put together, filling, and packed with flavors that make every bite satisfying.

In this recipe, I will guide you step-by-step on how to make a tasty BLT chicken salad that everyone will enjoy. It’s a wonderful way to switch up your usual salads and impress friends or family with something fresh and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love It

There are several reasons this BLT chicken salad has become one of my favorite go-to dishes. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. You don’t need special cooking skills just some basic ingredients and a little bit of time. Second, it’s very versatile. You can serve it on its own, with toast, or even scoop it into a wrap. Plus, it’s filling without feeling heavy.

Another reason I love this recipe is the balance of flavors. The crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch, the juicy tomatoes give it freshness, and the chicken makes it hearty. A touch of mayo or Greek yogurt brings it all together, making a creamy, satisfying salad. This dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for casual meals or when you have guests over.

Ingredients

For this tasty BLT chicken salad, gather the following ingredients:

2 cups cooked chicken breast, chopped or shredded
6 slices of bacon
1 cup cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved
2 cups romaine or iceberg lettuce, chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced (optional)
1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (depending on your preference)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Bread or crackers, for serving (if you like)

Feel free to swap out ingredients based on what you have. For example, if you don’t have cherry tomatoes, sliced regular tomatoes work just fine. And if you prefer a lighter version, Greek yogurt makes a good substitute for mayo.

Instructions

Making this BLT chicken salad is straightforward. Here are the steps to follow:

Cook the Bacon: Place the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat. Cook until crispy, about 4-6 minutes per side. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, chop into small pieces.
Prepare the Chicken: If your chicken isn’t cooked yet, you can cook it quickly by boiling, baking, or using pre-cooked shredded chicken from the store. I usually bake chicken breasts at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then shred or chop.
Mix the Dressing: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth. If you like your salad a little tangier, add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar.
Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, add the cooked chicken, chopped bacon, cherry tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion if using. Pour the dressing over the top and toss everything gently until well coated.
Taste and Adjust: Give the salad a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. If you want it creamier, add a little more mayo or yogurt.
Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if you like. Serve immediately with bread, crackers, or on its own for a light, satisfying meal.

Helpful Tips

Here are some tricks I use to make this salad even better:

Cook Bacon to Crispness: The crunch of bacon really makes a difference. Make sure it gets extra crispy without burning.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatoes and lettuce give the salad a bright, vibrant flavor. If your tomatoes aren’t ripe, the salad won’t be as juicy or tasty.
Make in Advance: The salad tastes great when it sits for about 30 minutes. Just keep the bacon and dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to keep everything crisp.
Customize It: Feel free to add other ingredients like avocado slices, hard-boiled eggs, or a little cheese for extra flavor.

Recipe Notes

Chickens: Grilled or rotisserie chicken works perfectly here. If you’re in a pinch, pre-cooked shredded chicken from the store saves time.
Bacon: For a healthier version, try turkey bacon or chicken bacon, though they might not be as crispy.
Dressing Alternatives: A simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon, salt, and pepper can give a lighter touch.
Serving Ideas: This salad is tasty in a sandwich, served over greens, or scooped with tortilla chips for a crunchy snack.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all the ingredients in advance, but don’t mix the dressing with the salad until you’re ready to eat. Store cooked chicken, bacon, and vegetables separately in the fridge. Mix everything together just before serving to keep the textures fresh and crispy.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this salad?

You can omit the bacon and use plant-based bacon or additional veggies like avocado or roasted chickpeas to boost flavor and texture. The core idea works well with a bit of creativity.

3. How long does it stay good in the fridge?

This salad is best eaten within 2 days. The bacon can become a little less crispy after sitting, but the flavors stay good. Keep the bacon and dressing separate until serving for the best results.

Other Related Recipes to Try

If you enjoy this BLT Chicken Salad, here are some other easy salad ideas you might like:

Turkey Cranberry Salad: Perfect during the fall, combining turkey, cranberry sauce, and greens.
Caesar Chicken Salad: Classic Caesar dressing combined with grilled chicken and crunchy croutons.
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A hearty mix of chickpeas, cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese with a lemon vinaigrette.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is a meal I come back to often. It’s flexible, tasty, and easy to make, especially when I want something quick that still hits all the right notes. Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing with friends, I’m sure this will become one of your favorite go-to dishes too.

Enjoy making this flavorful salad, and don’t hesitate to tweak the ingredients to match your taste. Happy eating!