How to make Easy BLT Chicken Salad

Ingredients

• 1.5 to 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 cups chicken broth or water
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 tsp black peppercorns
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 white onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, smashed
• Fresh parsley or thyme sprigs (optional)
• 8-10 slices thick-cut beef bacon (about 1/2 lb)
• 2 cups chopped crisp lettuce (Romaine, iceberg, or butter)
• 1 cup diced ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum)
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion or scallions
• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove fresh garlic, minced)
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or parsley
• 1/2 tsp salt, to taste
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, to taste
• Pinch smoked paprika (optional)
• Extra crispy beef bacon bits (optional garnish)
• Fresh chives or parsley sprigs (optional garnish)
• Toasted bread, lettuce cups, or crackers (for serving)

How to make Easy BLT Chicken Salad

Prepare the Poached Chicken

Start by rinsing and patting the chicken breasts dry. Take a large pot and combine chicken broth or water, bay leaf, peppercorns, salt, chopped onion, smashed garlic, and any optional fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Next, add the chicken to the pot. Once the chicken is in, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken poach for about 15-20 minutes. You want the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 165°F (74°C). After poaching, turn off the heat and let the chicken rest in the liquid for 10-15 minutes while covered. This helps keep the chicken moist. Once cooled, remove the chicken. You can shred or dice it depending on your preference.

Crisp the Beef Bacon

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup easier. Arrange the beef bacon in a single layer on the sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the bacon is golden brown and crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess fat and let it cool completely. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Prep Fresh Vegetables

While the chicken and bacon are cooking, turn your attention to the fresh vegetables. Start by washing and thoroughly drying the lettuce—then finely chop it. Wash and dice your ripe tomatoes (Roma or plum work best), being careful to gently squeeze out any excess liquid if they are very juicy. Place them on paper towels to help with drainage. Finally, finely chop the red onion or scallions.

Craft the Creamy Dressing

In a medium bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, fresh lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped chives or parsley. Add the salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika. Whisk this mixture until it is smooth and uniform. Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. For best flavor, you can choose to chill the dressing for about 30 minutes.

Assemble the BLT Chicken Salad

Now it’s time to put everything together. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled shredded or diced chicken, crumbled beef bacon, chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion or scallions. Pour about two-thirds of your creamy dressing over these ingredients. Gently fold everything together until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated. Add more dressing if you like. Perform a final taste test and adjust things to your liking. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the salad for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.

Serving Suggestions

When you’re ready to serve your BLT Chicken Salad, there are many delicious options. You can pile the salad onto toasted bread for classic sandwiches, spoon it into wraps, or serve it in crisp lettuce cups. It also works great over a bed of fresh greens, with crackers or crostini, or even stuffed into avocados or hollowed-out tomatoes. For an extra touch, feel free to garnish with extra crispy beef bacon bits or fresh herbs.

Storage Tips

If you have any leftovers, store the BLT Chicken Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for 3-4 days. Make sure not to leave it at room temperature for more than two hours. Keep in mind that freezing is not recommended because the mayonnaise will separate and the fresh vegetables will become mushy. Just give it a good stir before serving if you’ve stored it for a while.

Why You’ll Love This Easy BLT Chicken Salad

This Easy BLT Chicken Salad is a fantastic dish for many reasons. First, the combination of perfectly poached chicken, crispy beef bacon, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. You get that classic BLT taste with a twist.

Moreover, it is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or enjoying it as a quick lunch, this chicken salad always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a dish that you can make ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish packs a nutritious punch. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle health and repair. The fresh vegetables provide vitamins and minerals, promoting overall health. Lettuce and tomatoes are low in calories but rich in fiber, making this salad filling without being heavy. Meanwhile, chives and herbs add flavor without calories, and the creamy dressing adds richness while still being satisfying.

What to Serve With Easy BLT Chicken Salad

Aside from the main salad, there are several accompaniments that you could serve alongside it:

| Side Dishes | Description |
|——————————-|————————————————-|
| Fresh Fruit | A bright fruit salad adds a sweet contrast. |
| Potato Chips | Adds a delightful crunch to your meal. |
| Coleslaw | A tangy slaw complements the salad beautifully.|
| Vegetable Platter | Fresh veggies are a great way to balance flavors.|
| Pickles | Adds a tangy crunch that elevates the dish. |

How to Store Easy BLT Chicken Salad

To keep your salad fresh, use an airtight container when storing it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 3-4 days, so be mindful not to let it sit too long. As mentioned earlier, avoid freezing it to maintain the integrity of the mayo and fresh ingredients.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

1. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Keep an eye on the temperature to prevent the chicken from drying out. Always aim for 165°F (74°C).

2. Use Thick-Cut Bacon: For the best texture and flavor, thick-cut beef bacon holds up better in the salad.

3. Adjust the Dressing: Everyone has different taste preferences; start with less dressing and add more as needed.

4. Include Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs can enhance the flavor significantly, so don’t skip them if you have them on hand.

Variations

If you’re looking for a twist on the traditional recipe, consider these variations:

• Avocado Addition: Add diced avocado for creaminess and extra healthy fats.
• Different Proteins: Try substituting chicken with turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Version: Add jalapeño or hot sauce to the dressing if you like some heat.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge, and it will taste even better after the flavors meld together.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Absolutely! You can replace chicken with chickpeas or use grilled vegetables and replace bacon with smoked tempeh.

3. How can I make this lighter?
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise, and reduce the amount of bacon.

Enjoy your Easy BLT Chicken Salad! It’s a delightful recipe that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.