As the sun peeks through my kitchen window, I’m reminded of the joys that come with a bowl of comfort. Today, I’m whipping up a BLT Chicken Salad—a delightful blend that brings all the classic flavors of a traditional BLT sandwich into a nutritious, protein-packed meal prep. It’s perfect for those busy weeks when you crave something satisfying yet healthy. Not only does this salad come together quickly, but it also keeps well in the fridge, ready to brighten your lunch breaks. The creamy dressing, coupled with crispy bacon and fresh veggies, makes every bite a joyful experience. Are you ready to elevate your meal prep game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!

Why Will You Love This BLT Salad?

Quick and Convenient: This BLT chicken salad is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for meal prep enthusiasts.
Healthy Twist: Packed with protein from chicken and Greek yogurt, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Versatile Ingredients: Swap ingredients easily! Use turkey bacon or tofu for a vegetarian version, or add your favorite veggies.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With its classic flavors, this salad is sure to please the whole family and keep everyone coming back for seconds.
Meal Prep Champion: Enjoy this salad all week long—just store it in the fridge for easy, delicious lunches like these classic Bbq Chicken Coleslaw wraps.

BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

• Prepare to whip up this delightful dish with these simple yet tasty ingredients!

For the Salad

Cooked Chicken – The main protein source; use rotisserie chicken for swift meal prep.
Greek Yogurt – Adds creaminess and is a healthier alternative to traditional dressing.
Mayonnaise – Provides richness and depth; opt for vegan mayo if you prefer a plant-based option.
Crispy Bacon – Enhances flavor with crunch; turkey bacon is a great lighter substitute.
Green Onions – Adds a fresh zing; can be swapped with chives or shallots if needed.
Cherry Tomatoes – Introduces sweetness and moisture; regular diced tomatoes work too if they’re on hand.
Avocado – Offers creaminess plus healthy fats; best added fresh to avoid browning.
Seasonings (to taste) – Include salt, pepper, and any spices; season to enhance the flavors of your BLT chicken salad.

For Serving

Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb base option that adds a crisp layer.
Whole Grain Crackers – Provide a satisfying crunch alongside your salad.
Kettle Chips – Perfect for those who want an extra crispy bite.

This BLT chicken salad is perfect for meal prep, making your lunches healthier and more delicious!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for BLT Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine 1/2 cup Greek yogurt and 1/4 cup mayonnaise. Whisk them together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency. Season your dressing with salt, pepper, and any preferred spices to taste. This creamy base is the heart of your BLT Chicken Salad, so make sure it’s deliciously flavored!

Step 2: Combine Main Ingredients
Next, shred about 2 cups of cooked chicken and add it to the dressing. Toss in 4-6 slices of crispy bacon (crumbled) and 1/4 cup of chopped green onions. Using a spatula, gently mix everything until the chicken and bacon are evenly coated with the dressing. This will create the delightful bulk of your salad.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes
Gently fold in 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the BLT Chicken Salad. Be careful not to crush the tomatoes; you want them to retain their shape and add vibrant color. This step brings a fresh burst of flavor and a juicy aspect to your dish.

Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Taste your salad mixture and adjust the seasonings as necessary. This is your chance to make it just right—add more salt, pepper, or your favorite herbs for that perfect flavor balance. The key to an irresistible BLT Chicken Salad is making sure every bite is seasoned well!

Step 5: Incorporate Avocado
Just before serving, dice one ripe avocado and gently fold it into the salad. This ensures the avocado remains fresh and creamy without browning. If you’re preparing the salad for later, consider storing the avocado separately to keep it from oxidizing, maintaining the salad’s pristine appearance.

Step 6: Chill and Serve
Transfer your BLT Chicken Salad into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Chilling the salad allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your meal prep experience. Serve it chilled over lettuce wraps, on whole grain crackers, or simply enjoy it straight from the bowl!

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your BLT Chicken Salad in advance is a fantastic time-saving strategy for busy weeknights! You can mix the chicken, dressing, bacon, green onions, and tomatoes up to 3 days ahead of time, ensuring a quick assembly when you’re ready to serve. Simply store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. To keep the avocado from browning, it’s best to add it just before serving, so store it separately if you prepare the salad earlier. When you’re ready to enjoy, fold in the avocado, and your delicious, protein-packed BLT Chicken Salad will taste just as fresh as the day it was made!

How to Store and Freeze BLT Chicken Salad

Fridge: Keep your BLT chicken salad in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This ensures it stays fresh, flavorful, and ready for quick lunches.

Avocado Storage: If you plan to store the salad for multiple days, add the diced avocado just before serving. This helps prevent browning and maintains its creamy texture.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to potential texture changes, you can freeze the salad without the avocado for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If you prefer a warm salad, try heating the chicken portion gently in a pan or microwave while keeping the fresh ingredients separate for a delightful contrast in textures.

BLT Chicken Salad Variations

Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a BLT Chicken Salad that sings to your taste buds!

Dairy-Free: Substitute Greek yogurt with a plant-based yogurt alternative for a dairy-free version that’s just as creamy.
Vegetarian Delight: Swap the cooked chicken for crispy tofu or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian option; it packs plenty of protein!
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of lemon juice or some Dijon mustard to the dressing for a zesty kick that brightens up the whole salad.
Crunchy Add-Ins: Toss in diced cucumbers or chopped bell peppers for an extra crunch and a pop of color; it’ll bring freshness to your dish!
Spicy Twist: Incorporate a dash of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños for a delightful heat that complements the salad’s flavors perfectly.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like dill or cilantro can elevate your salad; they bring a fragrant touch that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
Nutty Toppings: Sprinkle some toasted sunflower seeds or chopped walnuts over your salad for added crunch and healthy fats; they make a great texture contrast!
Yummy Dips: Serve your BLT Chicken Salad in avocado halves or lettuce wraps for a fun twist; pair it with some homemade ranch or a spicy aioli for extra flavor.

These variations let you create endless delicious possibilities with your BLT Chicken Salad. If you’re looking for unique flavors, check out my mouthwatering Thai Peanut Chicken recipe or enjoy the bold taste of Cowboy Butter Chicken. Customize it and make it your own!

Expert Tips for BLT Chicken Salad

Shred Chicken Warm: Shredding chicken while it’s slightly warm enhances flavor absorption in your BLT chicken salad. This subtle warmth helps ingredients meld beautifully.
Avocado Storage: To maintain freshness, store avocado separately and mix it in just before serving. This prevents browning and keeps your salad vibrant.
Bacon Crispness: For added crunch, pack crispy bacon bits separately and sprinkle them on your salad at the last moment. This keeps everything deliciously crunchy.
Seasoning Balance: Always taste your salad before serving. Adjusting seasonings can elevate your BLT chicken salad, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Easy Subs: Don’t hesitate to swap ingredients based on preferences; use turkey bacon or tofu for protein variety without sacrificing flavor in your meal prep.

What to Serve with BLT Chicken Salad?

Elevate your meal experience with these delightful accompaniments that perfectly enhance the flavors of your salad.

Whole Grain Crackers: Crunchy and nutty, they add a satisfying texture and are perfect for scooping up the salad.
Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the salad, creating a delicious contrast.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of seasonal fruits adds a refreshing sweetness that balances the richness of the BLT chicken salad—think juicy strawberries, tangy blueberries, and succulent melon.
Crisp Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use crisp lettuce leaves as wraps, offering a crunchy, refreshing base that highlights the salad’s flavors.
Cucumber Slaw: Shredded cucumbers with a tangy vinegar dressing provide a delightful crunch and a zesty complement that brightens each bite of your chicken salad.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: Refreshing and light, these drinks enhance your meal with a cool, sweet zest that complements the savory elements of the dish.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet ending, treat yourself to classic chocolate chip cookies; their gooeyness is comfort food bliss alongside a savory salad.

BLT Chicken Salad Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this salad?
Absolutely! For a quick meal prep, I highly recommend using rotisserie chicken. It’s already cooked and adds amazing flavor. If you have leftover cooked chicken, that works just as well too! Just shred it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.

How should I store leftovers?
For freshness, keep your BLT chicken salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you’re prepping meals for the week, consider packing the ingredients separately, especially the avocado and bacon, to maintain their texture and flavor longer.

Can I freeze this chicken salad?
Very! While freezing the entire salad isn’t ideal due to the textures of the vegetables, you can freeze the chicken mixture (without avocado) for up to 2 months. To do this, place it in a freezer-safe container, pressing out as much air as possible. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving, and mix in fresh ingredients like avocado just before you enjoy it.

What should I do if the salad is too dry?
No worries! If you find your BLT chicken salad is a bit dry, try mixing in a splash of extra Greek yogurt or mayonnaise to moisten it. Another great trick is adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness and moisture, which enhances the flavors beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Certainly! If you’re considering allergies, note that this salad contains dairy from the Greek yogurt and mayonnaise. For those with gluten restrictions, ensure your mayonnaise is gluten-free. If you’re prepping for vegan or vegetarian diets, you can easily substitute chicken with tofu, and use vegan mayo for a delicious plant-based version.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?
To prevent browning, add the diced avocado just before serving. If you’re meal prepping for the week, store the avocado separately in a small container with a sprinkle of lemon juice, which will also help keep it fresh!