BLT Chicken Salad

A wonderfully fresh aroma fills the kitchen as the sizzling bacon complements the perfectly poached chicken, creating a symphony of flavors. This BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful mix of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and juicy tomatoes, all brought together by creamy mayonnaise. With minimal prep and just 30 minutes of total time, this recipe works beautifully for both busy weeknights and casual gatherings.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a satisfying yet light meal. Enjoy it on a hot summer day or as a packed lunch option. You can prepare the salad ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to four days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of crispy bacon and tender chicken creates a delightful texture contrast.
• Quick cooking times mean you can have dinner ready in about 30 minutes.
• Easy shredding technique ensures you get the perfect bite-sized chicken pieces.
• Serve it chilled for a refreshing meal that’s ideal for warm weather.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious salad.

For the Chicken

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 5 strips of bacon

For the Salad

• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1/2 cup quartered cherry tomatoes

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

Use Greek yogurt as a lighter mayo substitute.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breasts can be swapped for shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a leaner option.
• Green onions can be replaced with chopped chives for a milder flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes can be substituted with grape tomatoes.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to whip up your salad.

Cook Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a medium-sized saucepan and cover with cold water until both breasts are covered with at least 1" of water. Place the pot on the stove uncovered and bring the water to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the water to a simmer and cover with a lid. Simmer the chicken for 14 minutes, then remove from heat.

Prepare Bacon

While the chicken cooks, prepare the bacon on the stovetop. Fry at medium-low heat until crispy.

Chop Bacon

Place the cooked bacon on a towel to drain some grease, then chop into bite-sized pieces.

Mix Dressing

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, green onion, and black pepper.

Shred Chicken

Once cooked, remove the chicken from the water and shred it on a plate or cutting board with 2 forks.

Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, the mayo mixture, quartered cherry tomatoes, and chopped bacon. Mix all ingredients until evenly combined.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: No, due to texture changes.
Reheat: Not recommended; best enjoyed cold.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ingredients for a brighter flavor.
• Let the salad chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving for enhanced taste.
• Adjust the amount of black pepper based on your spice preference.
• Add lettuce or mixed greens for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve on a bed of mixed greens for extra freshness.
• Pair with crusty bread or toast for a simple meal.
• Great for picnics or potlucks as a crowd-pleaser.