B.L.T. Chicken Salad
A flavorful chicken salad featuring crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, all coated in a tangy barbecue mayonnaise dressing—perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, grated onion, lemon juice, and pepper in a small bowl; stir well.
- Cover and chill the dressing mixture thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, toss torn leaf lettuce, chopped cooked chicken, chopped bacon, chopped tomatoes, sliced hard-cooked eggs, and the chilled dressing until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the barbecue sauce with a tangy vinaigrette for a different flavor profile. If you're short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works perfectly. Adding some chopped herbs like parsley or basil can enhance freshness. This recipe is a delightful twist on classic American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This B.L.T. Chicken Salad is perfect for a light lunch or picnic. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of potato chips for added crunch. You can also serve it on a bed of mixed greens for a more upscale presentation. Consider pairing with a refreshing drink like iced tea or lemonade.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The salad may lose some crispness, but it can still be enjoyed cold. To refresh the salad before serving, consider adding a little extra dressing or a splash of lemon juice to revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of B.L.T. Chicken Salad contains roughly 791 calories, with 9g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 928mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the salad ahead of time, but it's best to add the dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. You can also store the dressing separately and mix it in when you're ready to enjoy the salad.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version. Alternatively, crispy chickpeas can provide a similar crunch without the meat.
Can I use different types of lettuce?
Absolutely! While leaf lettuce is traditional, you can use any type of lettuce you prefer, such as romaine or spinach. Each will add a unique texture and flavor to the salad.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).