If you love the classic flavors of a BLT and want something fresh, satisfying, and packed with protein, this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe is going to be your new favorite go-to. Combining shredded rotisserie chicken with crispy turkey bacon, creamy avocado, and bursts of grape tomatoes all tied together with a zesty ranch-infused dressing, this salad hits every note from crunchy to creamy to savory. It’s perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a hearty picnic dish that everyone will ask for again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple but essential, each bringing its unique flair to the table—from the tender shredded chicken to the crisp, smoky turkey bacon and the fresh pop of tomatoes and green onions. Together, they build layers of flavor and texture that make this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe truly unforgettable.
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds juicy, flavorful protein.
- 8 strips chopped turkey bacon: Turkey bacon gives you that smoky crunch with less fat than traditional bacon.
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds creaminess and tang while keeping the salad light.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Balances the yogurt and helps bind everything together beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning: Brings that classic herby ranch flavor without extra effort.
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper: Freshly cracked pepper adds a subtle bite that brightens the whole salad.
- 1/3 cup diced green onions: Offers a fresh, mild oniony crunch to compliment the creaminess.
- 2/3 pint halved grape tomatoes: These juicy gems add sweetness and color to every bite.
- 1 diced avocado: For that lush, buttery texture that elevates the salad’s richness.
- Fresh parsley for garnish: A pinch of parsley finishes the dish with a hint of herbs and color.
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing Base
Start by whisking together the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt in a large mixing bowl. Add the ranch seasoning and freshly cracked pepper to the mixture and blend everything until smooth. This creamy, flavorful dressing is the heart of the BLT Chicken Salad Recipe and sets the stage for all the delicious ingredients to shine.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Bacon
Next, mix in the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions. Stir gently but thoroughly to ensure every bite will be perfectly coated with the ranchy dressing, while the bacon brings in that irresistible smoky crunch that complements the chicken beautifully.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Fold in the halved grape tomatoes with care so their juicy sweetness is evenly distributed but the tomatoes remain intact. This step adds bursts of freshness and vibrant color to your BLT Chicken Salad Recipe, making it as pretty as it is tasty.
Step 4: Incorporate Avocado Before Serving
Just before you’re ready to enjoy the salad, gently fold in the diced avocado. Adding the avocado last keeps its creamy texture from turning mushy and preserves that buttery flavor everyone loves in a BLT combination.
Step 5: Chill and Let Flavors Meld
Place the completed salad into an airtight container and chill for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to marry and deepen, giving you a perfectly balanced BLT Chicken Salad Recipe that tastes even better after a little wait.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top not only brightens the dish’s presentation but also adds a subtle herbal note. For an extra touch, a few crunchy, lightly toasted croutons or a dusting of smoked paprika can create both visual appeal and an added layer of flavor.
Side Dishes
Pair this salad with crusty bread or pita chips for scooping, or serve alongside a crisp green salad or fresh fruit for a complete, well-rounded meal. Light roasted vegetables or a bowl of soup also complement the creamy, smoky flavors of the BLT Chicken Salad Recipe wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant twist, serve the salad in hollowed-out avocado halves or pile it on buttery croissants for a sandwich-style delight. You can also turn this salad into stuffed bell peppers or wrap it in large lettuce leaves for a fun and fresh low-carb option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe will keep nicely in the fridge for up to three days when stored in an airtight container. Keep the avocado mixed in for freshness, but you may want to add a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Freezing
Because of the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, freezing this salad is not recommended. The texture of tomatoes and avocado will degrade, and the yogurt-mayo dressing can separate.
Reheating
This salad is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature. If you prefer a warm meal, you can serve the salad alongside warm bread or gently reheat the chicken separately and then combine before serving.
FAQs
Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?
Absolutely! Regular bacon will provide a more intense smoky flavor and extra crispiness, but turkey bacon is a lighter alternative that still delivers great taste in this BLT Chicken Salad Recipe.
Is it necessary to use rotisserie chicken?
While rotisserie chicken is convenient and flavorful, you can cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs yourself. Just be sure the meat is tender and well-seasoned for the best results.
Can I make this salad vegan or vegetarian?
To make a vegan or vegetarian version, substitute the chicken and bacon with chickpeas or smoked tempeh, and use a plant-based yogurt and mayonnaise. The ranch seasoning can be swapped for a vegan-friendly alternative as well.
How long should I chill the salad before serving?
Chilling the salad for at least one hour is ideal as it helps the flavors meld together nicely. However, if you’re in a rush, you can serve it immediately with slightly less intense flavor.
What can I serve this salad with for a picnic?
This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe travels well in a sturdy container and pairs perfectly with crunchy crackers, sliced baguette, or pita chips. It’s also delicious scooped onto leafy greens or enjoyed in wraps for easy outdoor eating.
Final Thoughts
This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe brings all the comforting flavors of a classic BLT into a fresh, protein-packed salad that’s surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch or feeding a group, it’s the perfect combination of creamy, crunchy, and savory notes that will have you reaching for seconds. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Print
BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes plus 1 hour chilling
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A fresh and flavorful BLT Chicken Salad combining tender shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy turkey bacon, fresh vegetables, and a creamy ranch-seasoned dressing with Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Perfect for a light lunch or a satisfying snack, this easy-to-make salad is packed with protein and vibrant ingredients.
Ingredients
Salad
- 4 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 8 strips chopped Turkey Bacon
- 1/3 cup diced green onions
- 2/3 pint halved grape tomatoes
- 1 diced avocado
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Dressing
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the dressing: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise and Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning and cracked pepper until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Combine main ingredients: Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped turkey bacon, and diced green onions to the dressing, mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well-coated with the creamy dressing.
- Add tomatoes: Gently fold in the halved grape tomatoes, distributing them evenly throughout the salad without crushing their delicate texture.
- Incorporate avocado: Just before serving, fold in the diced avocado carefully to maintain its fresh texture and prevent browning.
- Chill for flavor melding: Transfer the salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld together, enhancing the overall taste before serving.
Notes
- Use turkey bacon for a leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon, reducing fat content while maintaining flavor.
- Add the avocado just before serving to keep it from browning and maintain its creamy texture.
- The salad can be served on its own, over greens, or as a sandwich filling.
- For extra crunch, consider adding chopped celery or walnuts.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 2 days for best freshness.
