Description
This BLT Chicken Salad combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies in a creamy dressing, making it a perfect choice for lunch, dinner, or picnics. Enjoy a delicious twist on a classic favorite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 4 slices of crispy bacon, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (optional)
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions
- If you haven’t already cooked your chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. Grill or roast it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), about 20-30 minutes depending on thickness. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before shredding or dicing.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the bacon. You can fry it in a skillet or bake it in the oven. For frying, heat a skillet over medium heat, add bacon strips, and cook until crispy (about 5-7 minutes). For baking, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), lay bacon on a baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and chop into bite-sized pieces.
- In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and adjust seasoning to taste.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, chopped bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and chopped romaine lettuce. If using, add green onions and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour dressing over the salad mixture, starting with half and adding more as needed. Gently toss to combine.
- Serve immediately, either plated individually or in a large bowl. For a heartier meal, serve on a bed of mixed greens or with crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
Notes
- Customize the salad by adding ingredients like avocado, cucumber, or hard-boiled eggs.
- For a healthier option, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dressing.
- Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Prepare chicken and bacon ahead of time for easy assembly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes