This BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich, perfect for any occasion. Its combination of crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh vegetables tossed with a creamy dressing makes it a filling dish that can be enjoyed at picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty lunch. The standout feature is the buttery croutons that add crunch and flavor, elevating this salad to a whole new level.
Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad
This salad has something for everyone.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 35 minutes from prep to table, this salad is an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of bacon, chicken, and a zesty dressing creates a taste sensation that will satisfy your cravings.
- Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side dish; it’s perfect for any gathering.
- Healthy Yet Satisfying: Packed with protein and fresh veggies, this salad is both nutritious and filling.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or adjust the dressing to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Serving plates
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: Essential for cooking the chicken and bacon evenly while achieving that perfect crispiness.
- Whisk: A must-have for effortlessly blending the dressing ingredients into a smooth mixture.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing chicken and prepping vegetables without mess.
Ingredients
For the Salad
- 2 hearts of romaine, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 1/4 french baguette, or other bread
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 strips bacon, sliced into 1/4 inch pieces
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 4 teaspoons whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make BLT Chicken Salad
Step 1: Distribute the Greens
Distribute the lettuce, tomatoes, and red onion evenly between four plates.
Step 2: Make the Croutons
In a medium-sized skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
* Add the bread pieces and toast them, stirring frequently until golden brown (about 5 minutes).
* Remove the bread from the skillet and set aside. Return the pan to medium heat.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
Wipe the skillet clean.
* Cook the bacon over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until brown and crispy (about 5 minutes).
* Remove the bacon from the pan and set aside. Drain most of the fat from the pan, leaving about 1 tablespoon.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
* Cook each breast for about 6 minutes per side until cooked through and no longer pink in the center.
* Remove chicken from pan and let rest on a cutting board while preparing dressing. After about 10 minutes resting time, slice chicken breasts.
Step 5: Prepare the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, whole grain mustard, maple syrup, and lemon juice until smooth.
* Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Assemble Your Salad
Divide croutons and bacon evenly among plates with salad greens.
* Drizzle each plate generously with dressing before serving.
How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad
This BLT Chicken Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a casual dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach: Add a layer of fresh spinach under the salad for extra nutrients and a slightly different flavor.
- Arugula: The peppery taste of arugula pairs well with the creamy dressing and adds an exciting twist.
In a Wrap
- Tortilla Wrap: Use a whole wheat tortilla to create a hearty wrap filled with the salad for an easy-to-eat option.
- Lettuce Wrap: For a low-carb choice, wrap the salad ingredients in large lettuce leaves.
As a Sandwich
- Toasted Bread: Serve the salad between slices of toasted whole grain bread for a satisfying sandwich version.
- Baguette: Use crusty baguette pieces as boats to hold the salad mixture for fun finger food.
With Extra Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Top each serving with creamy avocado slices for added richness.
- Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar or crumbled feta enhances flavor and texture.
How to Perfect BLT Chicken Salad
Creating the perfect BLT Chicken Salad involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish shines every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh romaine, ripe tomatoes, and high-quality bacon make all the difference in taste.
- Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure chicken breasts are cooked through but remain juicy by using a meat thermometer (165°F).
- Customize Dressing: Adjust the creaminess by adding more mayonnaise or thin it out with additional lemon juice if desired.
- Make Homemade Croutons: Store-bought croutons can’t compete with crispy, buttery homemade ones; they add texture and flavor.
- Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Consider adding ingredients like corn, cucumber, or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor variations.
Best Side Dishes for BLT Chicken Salad
A refreshing BLT Chicken Salad pairs well with several side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment that balances the salad’s freshness.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, enhancing the overall meal experience.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad provides sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory elements in the chicken salad.
- Potato Wedges: Baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer comfort and heartiness alongside your salad.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until tender add smokiness that pairs wonderfully with chicken and bacon.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad offers additional protein and fiber while keeping things light.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a BLT Chicken Salad, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Overcooking the Chicken: It’s crucial not to overcook the chicken breasts, as they can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
- Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your chicken and bacon with salt and pepper. This simple step enhances the salad’s flavor significantly.
- Using Stale Bread for Croutons: Fresh bread makes a big difference in crouton texture. Ensure your baguette or bread is still fresh for the best results.
- Not Letting the Chicken Rest: Allow the chicken to rest after cooking. This keeps it juicy and makes slicing easier.
- Ignoring Dressing Proportions: Balance is key in dressings. Adjust the mayonnaise and mustard ratio to suit your taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve for optimal freshness.
Freezing Instructions
- Freeze without dressing for up to 2 months.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers for easy thawing.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds), stirring in between, until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring gently until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I substitute for chicken in BLT Chicken Salad?
You can use turkey or chickpeas as a protein alternative. Both options provide great flavor and texture.
How do I make a healthier dressing for my BLT Chicken Salad?
To create a lighter dressing, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. It adds creaminess without excess calories.
Can I add other vegetables to my BLT Chicken Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to include cucumbers, avocados, or bell peppers for added crunch and nutrition.
How can I customize my BLT Chicken Salad?
Customization is easy! Try adding different cheeses, nuts, or fruits like apples or grapes for unique flavors.
Final Thoughts
The BLT Chicken Salad is not only hearty but also versatile, making it perfect for any occasion. You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the dressing. Give it a try and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic salad!
BLT Chicken Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our BLT Chicken Salad, where the classic elements of a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich are transformed into a refreshing salad. This dish features tender, juicy chicken combined with crispy bacon and vibrant veggies, all drizzled with a creamy maple mustard dressing. Topped with homemade buttery croutons, it brings a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or as a hearty lunch option, this salad is not only delicious but also quick to prepare—ready in just 35 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 hearts of romaine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 small red onion (optional)
- 1/4 french baguette (for croutons)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 strips bacon
- 1 lb chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 4 teaspoons whole grain mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Slice the romaine and halved cherry tomatoes; place them on four plates.
- In a skillet, melt butter and toast bread pieces until golden brown for croutons.
- Cook bacon in the same skillet until crispy; set aside.
- Season and cook chicken breasts until no longer pink; slice after resting.
- Whisk together mayonnaise, maple syrup, mustard, and lemon juice for dressing.
- Assemble by adding croutons and bacon to salads; drizzle with dressing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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