BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal prep idea, this BLT Chicken Salad is a must-try! It combines tender shredded chicken with fresh tomatoes, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, all tossed together in a flavorful dressing. This salad is perfect for lunches, picnics, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying dish packed with protein and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this salad in no time.
• High Protein: This salad packs a punch with 40 grams of protein per serving, making it a great choice for fitness enthusiasts.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the add-ins based on your preferences—add more veggies or swap out the chicken for turkey!
• Meal Prep Friendly: Store it in an airtight container for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of Greek yogurt and ranch seasoning creates a creamy dressing that elevates the taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools is essential. Below are some handy tools that will help you prepare this BLT Chicken Salad quickly and efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all ingredients easily without spilling.
• Whisk: Using a whisk helps to blend the creamy dressing smoothly, ensuring even flavor throughout the salad.
• Airtight container: Storing your salad in an airtight container keeps it fresh longer and makes for convenient meal prep.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Salad

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken (shredded)
• 8 strips Turkey Bacon (chopped (center cut))
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or you can skip and use all mayonnaise)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly cracked pepper
• 1/3 cup green onions (diced)
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes (halved or quartered)
• 1 avocado (diced)

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

Start by making the dressing in a large mixing bowl. Add in the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt, then whisk in the ranch seasoning and pepper until well combined.

Step 2: Combine Key Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix well until everything is thoroughly incorporated. Then add in the halved grape tomatoes and mix again gently.

Step 3: Adjust Seasonings & Add Avocado

Once everything is mixed together, taste your salad and adjust any seasonings as needed. When you are ready to serve, add in the diced avocado. Gently toss it into your desired portion of chicken salad or layer it on top for presentation.

Step 4: Chill Before Serving

Place your prepared BLT Chicken Salad into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

This BLT Chicken Salad is versatile and can be served in various ways to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual lunch or preparing a family dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the chicken salad over mixed greens for a fresh, crunchy base. This adds nutrients and makes it visually appealing.

In a Wrap

• Use whole wheat or spinach tortillas to create a delicious wrap. This makes for an easy grab-and-go meal that’s perfect for lunch.

With Crackers

• Pair the salad with your favorite whole grain or gluten-free crackers. The crunch complements the creaminess of the salad beautifully.

Stuffed in Avocado

• Halve avocados and fill them with the chicken salad mixture. This presentation is not only tasty but also adds healthy fats to your meal.

As a Sandwich

• Spread the BLT Chicken Salad between slices of whole-grain bread for a satisfying sandwich. Add lettuce and tomato for extra flavor and texture.

Accompanied by Soup

• Serve alongside a warm bowl of vegetable or chicken soup for a hearty and comforting meal option that balances flavors well.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To make your BLT Chicken Salad even better, consider these helpful tips that will enhance its flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce like tomatoes and avocados will elevate the taste of your salad, providing vibrant flavors.
• Adjust Seasonings: Don’t hesitate to tweak the ranch seasoning based on your preference; adding garlic powder or smoked paprika can give it an extra kick.
• Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill in the fridge for at least one hour helps meld all the flavors together for a more delicious result.
• Add Crunch: Consider incorporating chopped nuts or seeds for an added crunch that contrasts nicely with the creamy dressing.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can freshen up the dish and add new dimensions to its flavor profile.
• Portion Control: Divide into individual servings ahead of time, making it easier for meal prep and ensuring you enjoy perfect portions every time.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BLT Chicken Salad can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness that complements the savory flavors of the salad.
2. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs provides protein and fiber while keeping your meal healthy and filling.
3. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crisp carrots, celery, and bell peppers paired with hummus offer a crunchy, nutritious side.
4. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy add natural sweetness and are rich in vitamins.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the chicken salad perfectly.
6. Cucumber Salad: A simple cucumber salad dressed with vinegar offers refreshing bites that cleanse the palate between each savory bite of chicken salad.
7. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad mixed with vegetables can serve as a hearty side dish without overwhelming flavors.
8. Baked Chips: Crispy baked chips provide crunch without excess grease, offering a satisfying accompaniment to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making a delicious BLT Chicken Salad is easy, but some common mistakes can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using insufficient seasoning: Not enough seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Always taste your salad and adjust the seasonings to enhance the dish.
• Overcooking Turkey Bacon: Cooking Turkey Bacon too long can make it tough. Cook it just until crispy, so it maintains its texture.
• Skipping the chilling time: Serving immediately can result in a less flavorful salad. Allowing it to chill in the fridge lets the flavors meld beautifully.
• Adding avocado too early: Dicing avocado too soon can lead to browning and mushiness. Add it right before serving for the best texture.
• Not using enough protein: A lack of adequate protein may leave you feeling unsatisfied. Ensure you use enough shredded chicken for a filling meal.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep ingredients mixed well to maintain freshness.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as it may alter the texture of the ingredients, especially the avocado.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in a baking dish for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over low heat, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common queries regarding the BLT Chicken Salad that might help you:

Can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.

What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You may substitute with more mayonnaise or a dairy-free yogurt for a creamy texture.

How do I make this salad healthier?

To lower calories, reduce mayonnaise or use a light version. Adding more vegetables boosts nutrition without many calories.

How long does BLT Chicken Salad last?

It lasts up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making it great for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. With its creamy dressing and crunchy textures, it’s perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!