Delicious BLT Chicken Salad Recipe for Summer Picnics

Recipe By:
Daniel Lawson
Updated:

When you think of summer, what comes to mind? The warm sun, the sound of laughter, and perhaps, just perhaps, the tantalizing aroma of a BLT chicken salad wafting through the air. Imagine crispy bacon mingling with juicy grilled chicken, fresh lettuce, and ripe tomatoes drizzled with a creamy dressing. It’s not just a salad; it’s a party on your plate.

This dish is perfect for those sunny picnics or backyard barbecues when you want to impress without turning your kitchen into an oven. Trust me; this BLT chicken salad will have everyone fighting for seconds – and maybe even thirds.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This BLT chicken salad is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
  • The flavor combo of smoky bacon and fresh veggies creates a delightful burst in every bite
  • Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing and Instagram-worthy
  • Enjoy it as a light lunch or serve it alongside dinner for a delicious twist on classic flavors

I still remember the first time I made this for my family; my kids practically inhaled it and begged for more!

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Around 3-4 chicken breasts will do nicely; adjust based on your crowd size.

  • Crispy Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch; nobody wants limp bacon in their salad.

  • Ripe Tomatoes: Choose juicy tomatoes; they add a refreshing sweetness that balances the savory elements perfectly.

  • Fresh Lettuce: Romaine or iceberg work well; you want something crisp to give that satisfying crunch.

  • Mayonnaise: A good quality mayo brings everything together with its creamy richness; feel free to use Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.

  • Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the flavors beautifully; skip the bottled stuff if you can!

  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors in your salad; don’t skimp on these!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Chicken: Start by preheating your grill or skillet over medium heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Crisp the Bacon: While the chicken is cooking, fry up some thick-cut bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. The smell alone will make your neighbors jealous! Once done, drain on paper towels to absorb excess grease.

Prepare the Salad Base: In a large bowl, chop your lettuce into bite-sized pieces and dice those ripe tomatoes. Combine them in the bowl to create a colorful base that practically screams summer.

Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with freshly squeezed lemon juice until smooth. Taste it to ensure it’s tangy enough – feel free to adjust with more lemon if desired!

Assemble Your Creation: Slice your cooked chicken into strips and crumble crispy bacon over the lettuce and tomatoes. Drizzle with your homemade dressing and toss gently until everything is evenly coated.

Serve & Enjoy!: Transfer your masterpiece onto plates or bowls – don’t forget to take an Instagram photo first! Serve immediately while everything is fresh and crisp.

This BLT chicken salad is not just about satisfying hunger—it’s about creating memories around the table, sharing laughter over delightful bites, and enjoying every last morsel of summer’s bounty. So gather your friends or family, dig in together, and let this culinary adventure begin!

You Must Know

  • This delicious BLT chicken salad combines smoky flavors with fresh vegetables
  • It’s a delightful twist on the classic, offering a satisfying crunch and tanginess
  • Perfect for picnics, lunches, or a light dinner, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by grilling or pan-searing the chicken to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. While it’s resting, chop your veggies and prepare the dressing for maximum flavor infusion.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different greens like arugula or spinach. Adding avocado or swapping bacon for turkey bacon can create a unique spin on this salad.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, avoid reheating; enjoy cold for a refreshing bite.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • To elevate your BLT chicken salad, use fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for added flavor
  • Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it juicy and tender
  • Mixing dressings right before serving helps maintain texture and freshness in your salad

Sharing my first attempt at this BLT chicken salad brings back fond memories of laughter-filled kitchen chaos as my friends devoured everything within minutes!

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken adds convenience and flavor to your BLT chicken salad.

What type of lettuce works best?

Romaine or green leaf lettuce provides a satisfying crunch and holds up well in salads.

Is there a vegetarian option available?

Yes! Substitute grilled tofu or chickpeas for chicken for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Print
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BLT Chicken Salad

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A refreshing blend of smoky bacon, juicy grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, and ripe tomatoes, all drizzled with a creamy dressing. This easy-to-make salad is perfect for summer picnics or light dinners and promises to delight your taste buds while keeping your kitchen cool. Enjoy this flavor-packed dish that brings friends and family together for memorable meals.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon
  • 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 4 cups fresh romaine lettuce, chopped
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
  2. In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy; drain on paper towels.
  3. In a large bowl, combine chopped lettuce and diced tomatoes.
  4. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise with lemon juice until smooth.
  5. Slice the grilled chicken and crumble crispy bacon over the salad base. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
  6. Serve immediately while fresh.
  • Author: DANIEL LAWSON
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling/Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 980mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 20g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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