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Savory BLT Chicken Salad

This comforting salad brings together smoky bacon, tender chicken, fresh greens, and creamy dressing, making it a perfect weeknight meal or festive treat for gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 3 cups cooked chicken, shredded or roughly chopped rotisserie works beautifully
  • 8 strips bacon, cooked until crisp and chopped use turkey bacon for a lighter twist
  • 2 cups romaine or mixed greens, torn swap spinach with kale for a stronger flavor
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or 2 medium tomatoes, seeded and diced
  • 1 ripe avocado diced omit for a dairy-free version
  • 1/2 cup red onion, finely sliced sub with green onion or chives for milder bite
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise mix half yogurt and half mayo for a tangy, lighter dressing
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 teaspoons lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup optional, balances acidity
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or crumbled feta optional for cheesy comfort
  • to taste toasted pumpkin seeds or crushed pita chips optional crunch for texture

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until deeply golden and crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop once cool.
  2. If using leftover cold chicken, shred it into bite-sized pieces. For a warm salad, quickly sauté chicken chunks in a splash of olive oil with a pinch of salt until just warmed and slightly golden.
  3. In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, honey (if using), salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the greens, halved cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado. Toss gently.
  5. Fold in the shredded chicken and crisp bacon. Sprinkle cheese if using.
  6. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is lightly coated.
Serving
  1. Garnish with toasted seeds or crushed pita chips for crunch. Serve immediately.

Notes

Use good-quality bacon and ripe tomatoes—they make a difference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep dressing separate if refrigerating.