BLT Chicken Salad

A delicious protein-packed twist on the classic BLT sandwich, this BLT Chicken Salad combines shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, and fresh veggies in a creamy dressing. Perfect for picnics, lunchboxes, or casual dinners, this salad is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it on crackers, as a lettuce wrap, or even in a sandwich. Get ready to enjoy a hearty meal that’s easy to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this dish effortlessly.
• High Protein Content: Featuring rotisserie chicken and Turkey Turkey Bacon, it’s packed with protein to keep you satisfied.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on club crackers, in lettuce wraps, or as a sandwich filling for endless possibilities.
• Fresh Ingredients: The combination of grape tomatoes and avocado adds vibrant color and freshness.
• Easy Meal Prep: Make it ahead of time for lunches throughout the week or quick snacks.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the BLT Chicken Salad efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Large spoon or spatula
• Airtight container

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl is essential for combining ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending the dressing until smooth and creamy.
• Large spoon or spatula: Helps in gently folding ingredients without breaking them apart.
• Airtight container: Keeps your chicken salad fresh in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Ingredients

A protein-packed twist on the classic BLT sandwich, featuring shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, and fresh veggies in a creamy Greek yogurt and mayo dressing.

• 4 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded (about one whole chicken)
• 8 strips center cut Turkey Turkey Bacon, cooked crispy and chopped
• 2/3 pint grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
• 1/3 cup green onions, diced (about 3-4 green onions)
• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt (or use additional mayonnaise)
• 1/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning (dry mix)
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
• Club crackers, Ritz crackers, or tortilla chips
• Cucumber rounds
• Romaine or butter lettuce leaves for wraps

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. Whisk together until smooth and well blended. Add the ranch seasoning and freshly cracked black pepper. Whisk again until all seasonings are evenly incorporated throughout the dressing. This creamy base is the foundation of flavor for your chicken salad.

Step 2: Combine Chicken and Bacon

Add the shredded rotisserie chicken, chopped crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, and diced green onions to the bowl with the dressing. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold these ingredients into the creamy mixture until everything is well coated. The warm flavors will begin to meld with the dressing.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes

Add the halved or quartered grape tomatoes to the mixture. Fold them in gently to avoid crushing them; you want them to maintain their shape and fresh texture. The tomatoes will add a bright pop of color and juicy freshness.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning

Take a small taste of the chicken salad and adjust seasonings if needed. You might want to add more ranch seasoning or black pepper depending on your preference. Remember that flavors develop further as it chills.

Step 5: Add Avocado

When you’re ready to serve your chicken salad, gently fold in diced avocado. You can mix it into the entire batch if serving all at once or add it to individual portions if meal prepping.

Step 6: Chill Before Serving

Transfer the chicken salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. This chilling time allows flavors to meld together properly. If you’re in a hurry, you can serve immediately; however, chilling enhances flavor.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve your BLT Chicken Salad with your choice of accompaniments – on club crackers, with tortilla chips or cucumber rounds; as a filling for lettuce wraps; or even stuffed into pita pockets for a more substantial meal. Enjoy!

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad

Serving BLT Chicken Salad can be a delightful experience with various options to suit your taste. This versatile salad can be enjoyed in multiple ways, making it perfect for any occasion.

On Crackers

• Club Crackers: The classic pairing adds a nice crunch and buttery flavor.
• Ritz Crackers: These are slightly sweet and provide a great contrast to the savory chicken salad.

In Lettuce Wraps

• Romaine Leaves: Use crisp romaine leaves for a refreshing low-carb option.
• Butter Lettuce: The tender leaves of butter lettuce wrap the salad beautifully, adding a subtle sweetness.

With Chips

• Tortilla Chips: Serve with tortilla chips for a fun and crunchy twist.
• Pita Chips: These add an extra layer of flavor and crunch when paired with the creamy chicken salad.

Stuffed in Pitas

• Pita Pockets: Fill whole wheat pita pockets for a hearty meal on the go.

How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad

To make your BLT Chicken Salad the best it can be, consider these helpful tips:

• Add Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can elevate the flavors.
• Use Quality Bacon: Choosing high-quality Turkey Turkey Bacon will enhance the overall taste and texture of your salad.
• Chill before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasoning based on your preference.
• Incorporate Crunchy Veggies: Adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers gives extra texture and freshness.

Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BLT Chicken Salad can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks: Warm, buttery breadsticks complement the creamy chicken salad perfectly.
2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances the savory flavors with sweetness.
3. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing your meal’s flavor profile.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are a hearty side that pairs well with any chicken dish.
5. Vegetable Platter: Fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers bring color and healthiness to your table.
6. Chips and Salsa: This classic appetizer provides a zesty touch that contrasts nicely with the creamy salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best BLT Chicken Salad, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using dry chicken: Ensure you use moist, shredded rotisserie chicken for the best flavor. If your chicken is dry, consider adding extra dressing or a splash of broth to enhance moisture.
• Overcooking the bacon: Cook Turkey Turkey Bacon until crispy but not burnt. This will provide the right texture and flavor without overpowering the salad.
• Skipping the chilling time: Failing to refrigerate your chicken salad can result in muted flavors. Allow at least 1 hour for the ingredients to meld together fully.
• Not adjusting seasoning: Taste your salad before serving. If it lacks flavor, add more ranch seasoning or black pepper to elevate taste.
• Adding avocado too early: To prevent browning, only fold in diced avocado just before serving. This keeps it fresh and appealing.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the salad separate from any accompaniments like crackers or lettuce until serving.

Freezing BLT Chicken Salad

• This salad is not recommended for freezing due to its creamy dressing and fresh ingredients. The texture may change once thawed.

Reheating BLT Chicken Salad

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Spread on a baking sheet and warm for about 10 minutes, covered with foil.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this a BLT Chicken Salad?

This recipe includes classic BLT ingredients: crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing mixed with shredded rotisserie chicken.

Can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add additional veggies like bell peppers or swap out Greek yogurt for more mayonnaise based on your preference.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To reduce calories, use more Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise or opt for reduced-fat versions of both.

What should I serve with BLT Chicken Salad?

This salad pairs wonderfully with club crackers, tortilla chips, cucumber rounds, or even as a filling in lettuce wraps.

Final Thoughts

The BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of protein and fresh ingredients that offers versatility for any meal. Whether served as a light lunch or hearty dinner option, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors!

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