5-Minute BLT Chicken Salad Recipe : A Healthy and Delicious Summer Meal

When the weather heats up, there’s nothing better than a fresh, vibrant salad to enjoy for lunch or dinner. The BLT Chicken Salad is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor. Packed with all the delicious ingredients of a BLT sandwich—bacon, lettuce, tomato—and combined with tender chicken and a creamy dressing, this salad is a fresh take on a classic comfort food.

Not only is this salad incredibly flavorful, but it’s also healthyish, making it a great choice for those who want to enjoy a wholesome, protein-packed meal without feeling guilty. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick healthy lunch or serving it at a sandwich buffet, this summer chicken salad is sure to become a crowd-pleaser. It’s the perfect addition to any meal or a standalone dish that can be enjoyed on its own.

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Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad

This healthyish chicken salad is not just a salad—it’s a full meal that’s packed with flavor, nutrients, and texture. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Packed with protein: Chicken and bacon provide a hearty dose of protein, helping you stay full longer and keep your energy levels up.
• Fresh and flavorful: The combination of crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Simple ingredients: This salad is made with simple, easy-to-find ingredients, making it quick to prepare without sacrificing taste.
• Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of avocado, cheese, or a different type of dressing, this salad is easily adaptable to fit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for meal prep: This recipe is great for healthy lunch casseroles or super easy low carb meals that you can make ahead of time and store for the week.

For more chicken salad recipes that fit your healthy eating goals, check out our Healthy Chicken Salad with Avocado recipe!

Ingredients for BLT Chicken Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful BLT Chicken Salad:

• 2 large chicken breasts, cooked and shredded (you can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped (or any lettuce of your choice)
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (for a healthier dressing)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients come together to create a salad that’s creamy, crunchy, and bursting with flavor. The creamy dressing, combined with the smoky bacon and tender chicken, creates a perfect balance that will make this your go-to salad for the summer. You can easily swap out ingredients or add extras to suit your dietary needs and preferences.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need for Making This Summer Chicken Salad

To prepare this BLT chicken salad, you’ll need a few basic kitchen tools:

• Large mixing bowl (for combining the ingredients)
• Knife and cutting board (for chopping the vegetables and slicing the chicken)
• Skillet or oven (for cooking the bacon and chicken)
• Measuring spoons and cups (for accurate measurements)
• Whisk (for mixing the dressing)

These simple tools make the preparation process easy and quick, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. This is a no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or easy meal prep.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step)

Making this delicious chicken salad recipe is simple. Just follow these steps:

1. Cook the chicken:

If you’re not using pre-cooked chicken, cook the chicken breasts. You can bake, grill, or pan-fry them. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Set aside to cool.

2. Cook the bacon:

While the chicken is cooling, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove from the pan and crumble it into small pieces.

3. Prepare the vegetables:

Halve the cherry tomatoes, chop the lettuce, and thinly slice the red onion if using. Set these aside in a large mixing bowl.

4. Make the dressing:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This dressing will give the salad a creamy, tangy base that complements the bacon and chicken.

5. Assemble the salad:

In the large bowl with the tomatoes, lettuce, and onions, add the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. Pour the dressing over the top and toss to combine. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it over the salad just before serving.

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6. Serve and enjoy:

This salad is perfect as a standalone dish, but you can also serve it in wraps or on top of a bed of greens. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic!

This BLT chicken salad is as easy as it is delicious, and it’s the perfect meal for hot summer days when you want something light but filling.

Why BLT Chicken Salad is the Perfect Healthy Lunch Option

This BLT chicken salad makes the perfect healthy lunch for several reasons:

• Packed with protein: Chicken and bacon provide a satisfying amount of protein, which helps keep you full and energized throughout the afternoon.
• Low in carbs: This salad is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
• Loaded with veggies: The tomatoes, lettuce, and onions add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this salad a nutrient-dense meal.
• Quick and easy to make: With minimal prep time, this salad can be made in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for busy weekdays or meal prepping for the week ahead.

If you’re looking for other healthy lunch casserole ideas, try our Chicken Caesar Salad for a light but filling meal!

Creative Variations on BLT Chicken Salad

While this BLT chicken salad is delicious on its own, there are many ways to customize it. Here are a few variations:

• Add avocado: For extra creaminess and healthy fats, add sliced avocado to the salad.
• Use a different protein: You can swap the chicken for turkey, grilled shrimp, or even grilled steak for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to give the salad a spicy kick.
• Make it dairy-free: Skip the cheese and swap the yogurt for a dairy-free version of mayonnaise for a fully dairy-free salad.
• Use a different dressing: Instead of the creamy dressing, try a balsamic vinaigrette or a simple lemon vinaigrette for a lighter version.

These creative variations can make this chicken salad recipe your own, whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or even meat-free.

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

This BLT chicken salad is incredibly versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As a main dish: Serve it on its own as a satisfying, healthy lunch or dinner.
• In a wrap: Wrap the salad in a low-carb tortilla for a quick, portable meal.
• As a side dish: Serve it alongside grilled meats, soups, or as part of a larger meal.
• Over greens: Serve the salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach for added crunch and nutrients.

This healthy lunch casserole is perfect for any occasion and can be customized to fit your needs.

How to Store and Pack BLT Chicken Salad for Healthy Lunches

Storing and packing this salad for later is a breeze. Here’s how:

• Storing: Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’re making it ahead of time, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
• Packing for lunch: Pack the salad in individual containers for meal prep or take it to work for a healthy, quick lunch. You can also pack the salad in a wrap for an easy grab-and-go option.

Why This Salad is Perfect for a Sandwich Buffet or Soup and Salad Combo

The BLT chicken salad is an ideal addition to a sandwich buffet or paired with soup and salad for a light, balanced meal. Its creamy texture and savory flavors complement a wide variety of sandwiches, while the freshness of the tomatoes and lettuce makes it the perfect pairing for any soup. Serve it alongside a bowl of tomato soup or a simple chicken noodle soup for a complete, satisfying meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Salad Recipes

Here are a few mistakes to avoid when making your BLT chicken salad:

• Overcooking the chicken: Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender. Use a thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
• Not letting the bacon cool: Make sure the bacon is crispy and cool before adding it to the salad to maintain its crunch.
• Too much dressing: Add the dressing gradually. You can always add more, but it’s hard to fix a salad that’s too soggy.

The Health Benefits of BLT Chicken Salad

This healthyish chicken salad is loaded with health benefits:

• High in protein: The chicken and bacon are great sources of protein, which helps with muscle repair and overall body function.
• Low in carbs: This salad is naturally low in carbs, making it perfect for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
• Packed with vitamins and fiber: The fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber to support your overall health.

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FAQs About BLT Chicken Salad

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep everything fresh.

Can I use a different protein?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even grilled shrimp for a different flavor.

How long will BLT Chicken Salad last in the fridge?
The salad will last for up to 3 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use a different dressing?
Absolutely! You can use a vinaigrette or another creamy dressing of your choice if you prefer a lighter option.

Final Thoughts: A Fresh, Flavorful, and Healthy Summer Salad

The BLT Chicken Salad is the perfect healthy lunch, combining the flavors of a classic BLT sandwich with the satisfaction of a chicken salad recipe. With its creamy dressing, smoky bacon, and fresh vegetables, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed any time of day. It’s ideal for meal prep, a healthy lunch, or as a light dinner.

Try this recipe today and share it with your friends and family. Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious, healthy meal ideas!

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