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One of the best tricks for using up leftover chicken is making this BLT Chicken Salad—it’s got all the tasty vibes from the classic BLT sandwich, just without the bread. You get something filling and light at the same time. It’s awesome for prepping meals or tossing together a fast lunch in barely ten minutes.
The first time I put this out for lunch, my picky crew actually grabbed seconds. Now I always stash a bowl in the fridge but it’s usually gone in no time at all.
Tasty Ingredients
- Cooked chicken: Shred or chop into small pieces—this is your main protein, and leftover or rotisserie keeps things super quick
- Bacon: Gotta have crispy little salty chunks—go thick-cut if you can for serious crunch and flavor
- Cherry tomatoes: Slice in half for sweet juicy bites—choose the ones that are bright and still firm
- Red onion: Tiny diced bits for a little zing—fresh and shiny onions are always best
- Celery: Chop for a fresh and crunchy bite—go for stalks that look green and lively
- Mayonnaise: This is what holds your salad together—full-fat is extra rich but lighter mayo is fine too
- Lemon juice: Squeeze it fresh for a pop of bright flavor that cuts through the creamy dressing
- Salt: Sprinkle some sea salt in so the other flavors stand out—fine salt melts easy
- Garlic powder: Bring in a bit of mellow warmth—use a new jar for a punchier taste
- Onion powder: Adds savory depth that makes everything taste a little better
- Black pepper: Finishes it off with a little heat and bite—fresh cracked is the way to go
Simple Steps
- Chill or Dish Up:
- Toss it on the table right away if you love a little crunch, or stash it in the fridge for a bit. Just stir before scooping out leftovers so everything’s freshly coated.
- Mix it Together:
- Dump all your chopped chicken, bacon, tomatoes, onions, and celery in a big bowl. Pour on the dressing, then use some big spoons to make sure everything gets coated well.
- Make Your Dressing:
- Stir up the mayo, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper in a little bowl. Give it a taste—if it pops with flavor, you’re set.
- Prep Your Fixings:
- Chop your chicken, slice bacon into bite-sized pieces, halve tomatoes, and finely dice red onion and celery. That way, every bite gets a bit of everything.
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Seriously, bacon just instantly makes everything better. My kids can’t resist those crispy nuggets, and whenever I make this, it feels like a throwback to lazy summer picnics with my folks.
Keeping It Fresh
Keep your BLT Chicken Salad in a tight-sealing container and pop it in the fridge. It’ll stay crunchy and good for three to five days. Just don’t let it sit out for more than two hours or the dressing will get weird and it won’t be safe to eat anymore.
Swapping Ingredients
No chicken? Rotisserie turkey works for a fun twist. If you’re skipping bacon, a bit of smoked paprika plus extra celery adds tons of flavor. You can even go for Greek yogurt instead of mayo if you want a lighter, tangier taste.
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Serving Ideas
Try scooping this into lettuce leaves for a super quick low-carb wrap, or stack it up on toasted bread if you want that classic comfort. I love tossing in a handful of arugula or greens for extra pop and crunch. It even makes crackers way more exciting for a midday snack.
BLT Roots and Nostalgia
This spin is a nod to the old-school BLT, which started showing up in American diners ages ago. Turning it into a chicken salad just switches things up and makes it easier for meal prep. Creamy, salty, juicy—can’t get enough of that blast from the past, and it always brings back memories from summers at my grandparents’ house.
Common Questions
- → What’s a good way to cook the chicken?
Grab leftover rotisserie, poach, or bake some chicken. Chop or shred—breasts or thighs are both tasty here.
- → Can turkey bacon swap in for regular bacon?
For sure. Turkey bacon keeps things lighter but still brings that smoky kick you want.
- → Which mayo works best for the creamy base?
Whatever mayo you like—classic or light—blends just fine. If you love a little tang, mixing in some Greek yogurt is awesome too.
- → What's the best way to keep leftovers fresh?
Spoon leftovers into a container with a tight lid. Pop it in the fridge and use within 3 to 5 days. Toss it if it sits out over 2 hours.
- → Can I toss in other veggies or some greens?
Sure thing! Chop in some cucumber or avocado, or serve it all on greens for an extra fresh boost.
- → Will this hold up for meal prep?
Totally. Get everything ready in advance and you’ll have speedy lunches or snacks all week.