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BLT Chicken Salad combines classic sandwich flavors with protein rich chicken in a creamy dressing that satisfies hunger while delighting taste buds with each forkful. The tender shredded chicken provides a substantial base that absorbs the rich flavors of the dressing while maintaining its texture. Crispy bacon pieces contribute that unmistakable smoky saltiness and satisfying crunch that makes traditional BLTs so craveable, while the juicy diced tomatoes add fresh bursts of acidity that brighten each bite. When everything gets tossed together with creamy avocado chunks and a perfectly seasoned mayonnaise dressing, this salad transforms into an irresistible meal that works wonderfully for lunch preparation or as a protein packed snack option that keeps hunger at bay throughout busy days.
I first created this salad during a particularly busy work week when I needed something substantial that could be prepared in advance. My husband, typically skeptical of cold lunches, requested it three days in a row, which convinced me this recipe was something special. Even my picky niece cleaned her plate completely when I served it at our family gathering, asking for the recipe to take back to her college apartment.
Essential Components
- Rotisserie Chicken: Provides tender, pre cooked protein that saves time and absorbs flavors beautifully.
- Bacon: Contributes essential smokiness and satisfying crunch that gives this salad its signature BLT character.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Add juicy brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness of other ingredients.
- Ripe Avocado: Creates luxurious creaminess while contributing healthy fats that make the salad more satisfying.
- Green Onions: Provide mild onion flavor without the harshness of raw yellow or red onions.
- Mayonnaise: Forms the base of the dressing that binds all ingredients together.
- Ranch Seasoning: Contributes complex herb and spice notes that elevate the dressing beyond simple mayonnaise.
- Black Pepper: Adds gentle heat and aromatic qualities that enhance all other flavors.
Preparation Steps
- Begin With Bacon
- Cook thick cut bacon until crispy, then transfer to paper towels and chop into small pieces.
- Prepare The Chicken
- Shred rotisserie chicken or poached chicken breasts into bite sized pieces.
- Chop Fresh Components
- Dice tomatoes, slice green onions, and cube avocados.
- Create The Dressing
- Whisk mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder until smooth.
- Combine Primary Ingredients
- Fold shredded chicken, chopped bacon, and green onions into the dressing.
- Incorporate Tomatoes
- Add diced tomatoes, stirring gently to prevent breaking them down.
- Add Avocado Last
- Fold in avocado cubes just before serving or refrigerating.
- Chill Thoroughly
- Refrigerate for at least one hour before serving to enhance flavors.
- Serve Thoughtfully
- Stir gently before serving and pair with crackers, lettuce cups, or toasted bread.
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My college roommate introduced me to adding a pinch of smoked paprika to mayonnaise based dressings, a trick I now consider essential for my BLT chicken salad. This subtle addition amplifies the bacon flavor throughout every bite even in portions with fewer bacon pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Create elegant appetizers by serving on cucumber rounds. Fill half an avocado with the salad for a visually appealing dish. Use it to stuff large pasta shells and broil with parmesan for a warm variation.
Recipe Adaptations
Substitute Greek yogurt for half the mayonnaise for a tangier dressing. Add chopped olives and feta for a Mediterranean twist. Incorporate black beans and corn with cumin and lime juice for a southwestern version.
Freshness Maintenance
Store in glass containers with tight fitting lids for optimal freshness. Portion individual servings with separate crackers or vegetables. Add tomatoes and avocados fresh before serving if storing for several days.
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This BLT chicken salad represents the perfect balance of convenience and satisfaction, turning simple ingredients into a complete and craveworthy meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
- Yes, canned chicken will work in this recipe, though the texture and flavor won't be quite as rich as rotisserie chicken. Be sure to drain it well and flake it apart before mixing with the other ingredients. For the best flavor with canned chicken, you might want to add a bit more seasoning.
- → How long will this BLT Chicken Salad keep in the refrigerator?
- The chicken salad will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. However, the avocado will start to brown after the first day, so it's best to add that just before serving each portion rather than mixing it into the entire batch if you're meal prepping.
- → Can I make this dairy-free?
- Absolutely! To make this dairy-free, simply omit the Greek yogurt and use all mayonnaise instead (about 3/4 cup total). You can also use dairy-free mayo alternatives. Check your ranch seasoning to ensure it's dairy-free as well, or make your own blend with herbs and spices.
- → What are some serving suggestions for this chicken salad?
- This versatile BLT Chicken Salad is delicious served with club crackers, cucumber rounds, or tortilla chips. You can also stuff it into romaine lettuce leaves for lettuce wraps, use it as a sandwich filling with whole grain bread, or serve it over a bed of mixed greens for a complete salad.
- → Can I meal prep this for the whole week?
- Yes, this is perfect for meal prep! Make a batch on Sunday and portion it into containers for the week. Keep the avocado separate and add it fresh each day before eating. Pack your choice of crackers or vegetables separately to maintain their crispness.
- → How can I lighten up this recipe for fewer calories?
- To make a lighter version, use all Greek yogurt instead of the mayo/yogurt combination. You can also reduce the bacon to 4-6 strips instead of 8, and increase the vegetables by adding diced cucumber or celery for extra crunch without additional calories.