This Chicken BLT Salad is a truly delightful creation – a testament to the fact that simple ingredients can result in exceptional flavor! For years, I’ve been refining this recipe, developing it into a family favorite. It’s a brilliant way to transform leftover bacon and the classic BLT elements into a refreshing, light, and incredibly satisfying salad. My family consistently raves about it, making it a dependable choice for any occasion. Moreover, it’s easily customizable, allowing you to adapt it to your specific dietary needs and preferences – we’ll explore those adjustments further down.
Why This Chicken BLT Salad Stands Out
What sets this recipe apart is the careful balance of flavors and textures. The smoky notes of the bacon, combined with the creamy richness of the mayonnaise, the tangy bite of the apple cider vinegar, and the fresh crispness of the lettuce, create a harmonious and truly memorable dish. It’s surprisingly easy to make, offering a healthy and tasty option for a weeknight meal or a quick lunch. If you’re looking for even more creative lunchtime ideas, be sure to browse our Lunch & Snack Recipes collection.
Ingredients
The Chicken
* 1.5 – 2 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Cut into 1-inch cubes. *To ensure even cooking and juicy results, lightly pound the chicken pieces before cubing.*
* 1 tbsp Olive Oil – Essential for achieving a beautiful golden-brown sear on the chicken.
* 1 tsp Smoked Paprika – This spice adds a wonderful depth of flavor, mimicking the taste of a barbecue.
* 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder – Enhancing the savory profile of the chicken.
* Salt & Pepper – Season generously to your liking.
The Salad
* 8 oz Romaine Lettuce – Roughly chopped, providing a light and crisp base for the salad.
* 4 slices Bacon – Cooked until perfectly crispy and crumbled, adding a crucial element of undeniable satisfaction.
* 1/2 cup Cherry Tomatoes – Halved, offering a burst of sweetness and vibrant color.
* 1/4 cup Red Onion – Thinly sliced, delivering a subtle sharpness that complements the creamy dressing.
The Dressing
* 1/2 cup Mayonnaise – The foundational creamy element, contributing to the salad’s luscious texture.
* 2 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar – Provides a bright, tangy counterpoint to the richness of the mayonnaise.
* 1 tsp Dijon Mustard – Adds complexity and a subtle, warm spice.
* 1/4 tsp Sugar – Balances the acidity, creating a well-rounded and delicious dressing.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken
- In a medium bowl, toss the cubed chicken with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Ensure the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated with the seasoning blend.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for approximately 6-8 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Remove from the skillet and allow it to cool slightly before adding it to the salad—this prevents the lettuce from wilting prematurely.
Assembling the Salad
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and thinly sliced red onion.
- In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and sugar until fully combined. Adjust the sweetness to your preference – a little extra sugar can elevate the flavor considerably.
Combining & Serving
- Gently add the cooled chicken to the salad bowl. Carefully toss to coat the chicken with the dressing, taking care not to overmix and damage the lettuce.
- Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor. A chilled salad is truly delightful! Alternatively, you can serve the salad on lettuce cups for a lighter presentation.
Variations and Add-Ins
* Enhance the creaminess and nutritional value by adding avocado slices.
* For a softer texture, substitute romaine lettuce with butter lettuce.
* Spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a touch of heat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Chicken BLT?
A Chicken BLT, often referred to as “Chicken Bacon Lettuce Tomato,” is a delicious twist on the classic BLT sandwich. Instead of bread, this salad features tender, seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, crisp lettuce, and juicy tomatoes, all brought together with a flavorful and creamy dressing. It’s a convenient and satisfying meal option – a delightful alternative to the traditional sandwich. Discover even more exciting recipe ideas on our Dinner & Appetizer Recipes section.
Is a Chicken BLT Healthy?
Absolutely! This recipe can be a smart choice for your health. By opting for leaner chicken breast and focusing on fresh vegetables and a balanced dressing, you can create a considerably healthier version of this beloved meal. Pay attention to the amount of mayonnaise you use, and adding extra greens will boost its nutritional profile.
Is there such a thing as a BLT Salad?
Yes, certainly! “BLT Salad” is a widely accepted term to describe this particular dish – a refreshing salad that captures the essence of a BLT sandwich without the need for bread. It’s a popular and convenient way to enjoy the familiar flavors of the BLT.
How to Make Chicken and Bacon Salad?
Creating this Chicken BLT Salad is a straightforward process. First, thoroughly cook the chicken. Then, prepare the bacon and your desired vegetables. Finally, whisk together the dressing and gently combine all the ingredients in a bowl. Balancing the flavors is key – start with a moderate amount of dressing and add more to suit your preference, ensuring the bacon provides a satisfying crunch.
This Chicken BLT Salad is a truly delicious and remarkably simple meal to prepare – a testament to the incredible results you can achieve with quality ingredients. It’s an ideal choice for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or as a vibrant side dish. Feel free to experiment with additions, such as avocado or different types of lettuce, to create a salad that perfectly suits your tastes. Don’t hesitate to get creative and craft your own signature version – enjoy every delicious bite!
“If you want to branch out with variations, check out recipes like this Chicken Salad with Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato from Allrecipes