If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious meal prep idea, you’ve got to try this BLT Chicken Salad. This vibrant salad brings together tender shredded chicken, crispy Turkey Bacon, and fresh avocado, all blended with a creamy dressing. Perfect for lunches, snacks, or light dinners, this recipe is not only easy to make but also packed with protein and flavor. Its versatility ensures that it fits seamlessly into any occasion, whether you’re hosting a picnic or just need a quick meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: This salad can be made in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.
- High in Protein: With rotisserie chicken and Turkey Bacon, it’s an excellent choice for a protein-packed meal.
- Versatile: Serve it on its own, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling for varied meals.
- Flavorful & Fresh: The combination of ranch seasoning and fresh ingredients delivers a burst of flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for effortless healthy lunches throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Preparing your BLT Chicken Salad is simple with the right tools. Having these essentials on hand will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Chopping board
- Knife
- Airtight container
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine ingredients easily without spilling.
- Whisk: Using a whisk helps achieve a smooth dressing texture by thoroughly mixing the liquids and seasonings.
- Chopping board & Knife: These are essential for safely chopping ingredients like vegetables and meats.
Ingredients
For the 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)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
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. Whisk them together until fully combined. Then, add in the ranch seasoning and cracked pepper.
Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients
Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped Turkey Bacon, and diced green onions into the bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Add in the halved grape tomatoes to the mixture. Gently fold them into the salad to ensure they don’t get squished.
Step 4: Final Touches
Taste your salad mix and adjust any seasonings if needed. When ready to serve, gently toss in the diced avocado or arrange it on top for presentation.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Transfer your BLT Chicken Salad into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for at least one hour before serving to allow flavors to meld together beautifully.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad
Serving BLT Chicken Salad can elevate your meal experience and offer delightful variety. Here are some creative suggestions to make the most out of this delicious dish.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens: Place the chicken salad atop a mix of fresh greens for a refreshing crunch.
- Spinach: Serve it on a bed of spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
In a Wrap
- Tortilla Wrap: Spread the salad onto a tortilla, roll it up, and enjoy a portable meal.
- Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad.
As a Sandwich
- On Bread: Layer the chicken salad between slices of your favorite bread for a classic sandwich.
- Bagel: Spread it on a toasted bagel for a hearty breakfast or lunch option.
With Crackers
- Whole Grain Crackers: Serve the salad with whole grain crackers for added texture and crunch.
- Rice Crackers: These are gluten-free and provide a light, crispy pairing.
How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad
To ensure your BLT Chicken Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Bold flavors: Use fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes and ripe avocados for the best taste.
- Chill before serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for an hour enhances its flavors by allowing them to meld together.
- Customize dressing: Feel free to adjust the mayo and Greek yogurt ratio based on your preference for creaminess.
- Add crunch: Incorporate chopped celery or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad
Pairing sides with your BLT Chicken Salad can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and balance to the savory chicken salad.
- Vegetable Chips: Crunchy vegetable chips provide an excellent texture contrast and are fun to munch on.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can refresh your palate with its natural sweetness.
- Coleslaw: The creamy tang of coleslaw complements the flavors of the chicken salad nicely.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and fiber while keeping everything healthy.
- Roasted Veggies: Roasted vegetables offer warmth and earthiness that pairs well with cold salads.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping the Dressing Steps: Many people forget that the dressing is crucial for flavor. Always whisk together mayo and Greek yogurt thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
- Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: If the chicken isn’t shredded well, it can lead to uneven distribution in the salad. Take the time to shred it finely for a better texture.
- Overcooking the Bacon: Turkey bacon should be crispy but not burnt. Cook until just right for that perfect crunch without losing flavor.
- Forgetting Seasonings: Ignoring herbs and spices can make your salad bland. Always taste as you mix and adjust seasonings to elevate flavors.
- Adding Avocado Too Early: Avocado can brown quickly if added too soon. Add it just before serving or layer it on top to keep it fresh.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store your BLT Chicken Salad in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep it fresh and prevent odors from mingling with other foods.
Freezing BLT Chicken Salad
- Duration: It’s best not to freeze this salad due to the avocado and dressing, but if needed, store for up to 1 month.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating BLT Chicken Salad
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread salad in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, stirring in between.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this BLT Chicken Salad healthy?
This salad is packed with protein from shredded chicken and turkey bacon while using Greek yogurt as a healthier dressing option.
Can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! You can add ingredients like chopped celery, bell peppers, or different herbs based on your taste preferences.
How long does BLT Chicken Salad last in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this salad lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Yes! While turkey bacon is lower in fat, you can definitely substitute regular bacon if you prefer its flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This BLT Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep as it holds up well when stored in individual portions.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also versatile. With its high protein content and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for lunch or as a snack. Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins or dressings. Give it a try; you won’t be disappointed!
BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Discover a delightful meal prep option with this BLT Chicken Salad, a recipe that’s perfect for busy lifestyles. This vibrant salad features tender shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and creamy avocado, all enveloped in a homemade dressing that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. In just 25 minutes, you can whip up this protein-packed dish that’s ideal for lunches, snacks, or light dinners. Its versatility allows you to serve it on mixed greens, in wraps, or as a hearty sandwich filling—making it suitable for any occasion. Prep ahead for effortless healthy lunches during the week or enjoy it fresh at your next picnic gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 strips chopped turkey bacon
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- 1 avocado
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and Greek yogurt until smooth. Stir in ranch seasoning and pepper.
- Add shredded chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions to the bowl; mix until well combined.
- Gently fold in halved grape tomatoes and adjust seasonings to taste.
- Before serving, gently incorporate diced avocado or layer on top.
- Refrigerate for at least one hour to enhance flavors before enjoying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize your dressing by adjusting the mayo and yogurt ratio based on your preference for creaminess. Add crunch with chopped celery or bell peppers for an extra texture.