BLT Chicken Salad might just be the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers. As someone who’s spent years perfecting comfort food classics in professional kitchens and home settings alike, I know the frustration of bland, uninspiring chicken salads that leave you reaching for something more satisfying.
Hi, I’m Emeli from FoodFansy, and today I’m sharing my elevated take on the beloved BLT combination—but in chicken salad form. This recipe transforms the classic tomato trio into a protein-packed, creamy delight that’s perfect for meal prep, quick lunches, or entertaining guests.
What makes this recipe special? , the fresh burst of ripe tomatoes, and tender chicken with a perfectly seasoned dressing that brings everything together. Plus, I’ll share insider tips from my culinary journey that ensure your chicken stays moist and your flavors pop every single time.
We’ll cover everything from selecting the best chicken cuts to creative serving suggestions, plus answer those burning questions that come up every time you’re making chicken salad for the family.
Why This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe Works
This BLT Chicken Salad recipe isn’t just another mayo-heavy mixture—it’s a carefully balanced combination that delivers on flavor, convenience, and versatility. After years of experimenting with chicken salad variations in both professional and home kitchens, I’ve discovered what truly makes this dish shine.
• Uses accessible, budget-friendly ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen • Comes together in just 20 minutes once your chicken is cooked, making it perfect for busy weeknights • Doubles as meal prep magic—tastes even better the next day and works for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups • Balances textures perfectly with , tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy dressing • Adapts to dietary needs with easy substitutions for keto, paleo, or dairy-free lifestyles
Choosing the Right Chicken for BLT Chicken Salad
The foundation of any great BLT Chicken Salad recipe starts with selecting the right chicken. Not all cuts are created equal when it comes to salads, and your choice can make or break the final dish.
Best Cuts for This BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Chicken Thighs (My Top Choice): Dark meat stays moist and flavorful even when shredded. The slight fat content prevents that dreaded dry chicken salad syndrome. Whether you use boneless or bone-in (remove bones after cooking), thighs deliver consistent results.
Chicken Breasts (The Popular Option): While lean, they require careful cooking to avoid dryness. If using breasts, consider poaching them in seasoned broth or using a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
Rotisserie Chicken (The Time-Saver): Perfect for busy cooks. Remove the skin and shred both white and dark meat for the best texture and flavor balance.
Buying Tips for Your BLT Chicken Salad
When shopping for fresh chicken, look for pieces with a pinkish hue and firm texture. Avoid any with a grayish tint or strong odor. If buying rotisserie chicken, choose one that’s still warm or was cooked that day for optimal freshness.
For the best value, buy whole chickens and break them down yourself, or wait for sales on your preferred cuts and freeze portions for future salads.
Substitutions for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Turkey: Leftover roasted turkey works beautifully, especially around the holidays. Canned Chicken: In a pinch, high-quality canned chicken breast can work, though fresh is always preferred. Plant-Based: Seasoned and shredded jackfruit or chickpeas create a surprisingly satisfying vegetarian version.
Ingredients & Prep for BLT Chicken Salad
Success with this BLT Chicken Salad recipe starts with proper ingredient preparation and understanding how each component contributes to the final dish.
Chicken Prep Essentials for BLT Chicken Salad
For Fresh Chicken: Season generously with salt and pepper before cooking. If time allows, dry-brine chicken with salt for 30 minutes to enhance moisture retention. Cook using your preferred method—poaching, roasting, or grilling all work well.
Temperature Matters: Cook chicken to 165°F internal temperature, then let it cool completely before shredding. Warm chicken will wilt your vegetables and make the mayonnaise separate.
Shredding Technique: Use two forks or clean hands to shred chicken into bite-sized pieces. Avoid making them too small—you want substantial chunks that hold up to mixing.
Building the Flavor Base for BLT Chicken Salad
Tomato Selection: Use Roma or cherry tomatoes for the best texture. Roma tomatoes have fewer seeds and less water content, preventing soggy salad. If using regular tomatoes, seed them first.
Fresh Herb Magic: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh chives, dill, or parsley elevate this salad significantly. Add them just before serving to maintain their bright color and flavor.
Pantry Staples for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Mayonnaise Quality: Use a good-quality mayonnaise as your base. Duke’s, Hellmann’s, or homemade mayo make a noticeable difference in taste.
Acid Balance: Apple cider vinegar adds tanginess and helps cut through the richness. Lemon juice works as a substitute and adds brightness.
Seasoning Foundation: Garlic powder and onion powder provide depth without overpowering. Fresh garlic can be too strong and may become bitter over time.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad
Creating the perfect BLT Chicken Salad recipe requires attention to timing and technique. Follow these steps for consistently delicious results.
Pre-Cooking Prep for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
- Organize Your Workspace: Gather all ingredients and have a large mixing bowl ready. Prep all vegetables before you start cooking.
- Prepare Vegetables: dice tomatoes and drain them on paper towels for 10 minutes. Finely dice red onion and slice green onions. If using celery, dice it uniformly for consistent texture.
Cooking Method for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
If Using Fresh Chicken:
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper
- For poaching: Bring seasoned broth to a simmer, add chicken, cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until 165°F
- For roasting: Bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes (thighs) or 15-20 minutes (breasts) until 165°F
- For grilling: Cook over medium heat, 6-8 minutes per side until 165°F
If Using Rotisserie Chicken: Simply remove skin and shred meat into bite-sized pieces, combining white and dark meat for optimal flavor.
Doneness Check for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature. The juices should run clear, and the meat should feel firm but not tough. Undercooked chicken poses health risks, while overcooked chicken becomes dry and stringy.
Resting for Perfect BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Allow cooked chicken to cool completely before shredding—this prevents the mayonnaise from separating and vegetables from wilting. If you’re in a hurry, spread shredded chicken on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 15 minutes to speed cooling.
Pro Tips for Perfect BLT Chicken Salad
These professional techniques will elevate your BLT Chicken Salad recipe from good to extraordinary.
Avoiding Common BLT Chicken Salad Recipe Mistakes
Preventing Soggy Salad: Always drain diced tomatoes on paper towels before adding to the salad. Consider salting them lightly and letting them drain for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Temperature Control: Never add warm chicken to your salad. The heat will cause mayonnaise to separate and vegetables to wilt, resulting in an unappetizing texture.
Seasoning Balance: Taste your salad before serving and adjust seasoning. The flavors meld over time, so what tastes perfect immediately might need a touch more salt or acid after chilling.
Essential Tool Recommendations for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Meat Thermometer: Non-negotiable for food safety and preventing overcooked chicken. Digital instant-read thermometers are most accurate.
Large Mixing Bowl: Use a bowl larger than you think you need. This prevents ingredients from spilling during mixing and ensures even distribution.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Clean, uniform cuts on vegetables create better texture and visual appeal in your finished salad.
Storage & Reheating Tips for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Refrigerator Storage: Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve after the first day as they meld together.
Freezer Friendly: This salad doesn’t freeze well due to the mayonnaise base and fresh vegetables, which break down upon thawing.
Serving Temperature: Serve chilled or at room temperature. Let refrigerated salad sit out for 10-15 minutes before serving for the best flavor.
Flavor Variations for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Transform your basic BLT Chicken Salad recipe into exciting new creations with these tested variations.
Spicy Twist on BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Chipotle BLT: Add 1-2 finely minced chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to your dressing for smoky heat.
Buffalo Style: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt and add 2 tablespoons buffalo sauce plus diced celery.
Jalapeño Kick: Include 1-2 finely diced jalapeños (seeds removed) and a dash of hot sauce to your taste preference.
Diet-Friendly BLT Chicken Salad Recipe Options
Keto Version: This recipe is naturally keto-friendly, but you can boost fat content by adding diced avocado and using full-fat mayonnaise.
Paleo Adaptation: Use paleo-approved mayonnaise (made with avocado oil) and skip any non-compliant seasonings.
Lighter Version: Replace half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for reduced calories while maintaining creaminess.
Global Flavors for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Mediterranean Style: Add sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese with a lemon-herb dressing.
Asian Fusion: Include sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sliced almonds with a touch of soy sauce.
Mexican Inspired: Incorporate corn, black beans, cilantro, and lime juice with a cumin-spiced dressing.
BLT Chicken Salad Recipe Variations Comparison
Serving Suggestions for BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
The versatility of this BLT Chicken Salad recipe makes it perfect for numerous serving occasions and presentations.
Sandwich Perfection: Serve on toasted sourdough, croissants, or your favorite bread. Add extra lettuce for crunch and slice tomatoes for presentation.
Light & Fresh: Create lettuce cups using butter lettuce or iceberg leaves for a low-carb option that’s perfect for lunch or appetizers.
Elevated Lunch: Serve over mixed greens with additional cherry tomatoes and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-quality salad.
Party Appetizer: Fill endive leaves or small phyllo cups for elegant finger food that guests will love.
Meal Prep Winner: Pack in containers with crackers or vegetables for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week.
Wine & Beer Pairings: Pair with crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio for wine lovers, or light wheat beer for casual gatherings.
FAQs About BLT Chicken Salad Recipe
Can I use frozen chicken for this BLT Chicken Salad recipe?
Yes, but thaw it completely first. Frozen chicken takes longer to cook evenly and may result in a watery texture if not properly drained after thawing.
How do I fix overcooked chicken in my BLT Chicken Salad?
If your chicken is slightly overcooked, add an extra tablespoon of mayonnaise and a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture. For severely overcooked chicken, it’s best to start fresh.
Is this BLT Chicken Salad recipe safe for pregnant women?
Yes, as long as all ingredients are properly cooked and stored. Ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature and use pasteurized mayonnaise.
Can I make this BLT Chicken Salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salad actually tastes better after chilling for a few hours. Make it up to 3 days in advance, but add fresh herbs just before serving.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover BLT Chicken Salad?
Don’t reheat this salad—it’s meant to be served cold. If you want something warm, use the chicken salad as filling for a grilled sandwich or melt.
Can I substitute the mayonnaise in this BLT Chicken Salad recipe?
Yes! Try Greek yogurt, avocado-based mayo, or a combination of both. Each will create a slightly different flavor profile and texture.
Conclusion
This BLT Chicken Salad recipe brings together everything I love about comfort food: familiar flavors, simple preparation, and endless versatility. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, hosting friends, or just wanting something satisfying for lunch, this recipe delivers every time.
The combination , juicy tomatoes, tender chicken, and creamy dressing creates a harmony that’s both nostalgic and fresh. Plus, with all the variations I’ve shared, you’ll never get bored of this crowd-pleaser.
Ready to create your own kitchen magic? Fire up that stove and try this BLT Chicken Salad recipe tonight! Your taste buds (and your meal prep routine) will thank you.
Join the thousands of home cooks in the FoodFansy community who’ve made this their go-to chicken salad recipe. Share your creations and variations—I love seeing how you make these recipes your own!
Want more protein-packed meal prep ideas? Check out our [Mediterranean Quinoa Bowl] and [Asian-Inspired Turkey Lettuce Wraps] for more healthy, delicious options that travel well and taste amazing.
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with your friends or save it for later!
I’d love to see your unique twist—feel free to post your photos on Pinterest!
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BLT Chicken Salad Recipe: Ultimate 20-Minute Comfort Food Hack
- Total Time: 15mins
Description
A chicken salad inspired by BLTs with tomatoes in a creamy ranch mayonnaise dressing!
Ingredients
4 cups chicken, cooked and shredded or sliced
cooked and crumbled
1 cup tomatoes, diced
1/2 cup celery, diced (optional)
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/4 cup green onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (or sour cream)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice)
1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried dill
1/2 teaspoon dried chives
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
Mix the chicken,
, tomatoes, celery, red onions, and green onions.
Mix the mayo, vinegar, parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Mix the salad with the dressing and enjoy, preferably with or in lettuce!
Option: Omit the ranch spices (parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, and onion powder) or replace them with a store bought ranch dressing mixture.
Option: Add diced avocado!
Option: Serve in lettuce boats, or in sandwiches, or in grilled cheese sandwiches!
- Prep Time: 15mins
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 Servings
Keywords: BLT Chicken Salad