BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

By: Emily parker | Published onDecember 13, 2025

A bowl of BLT Chicken Salad with bacon, lettuce, tomato, and grilled chicken

If you’re looking for a dish that balances comfort and freshness, this BLT Chicken Salad is an excellent choice. Combining tender pieces of chicken with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy celery, it’s a feast that tickles the taste buds and satisfies the appetite. This recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or sunny brunches on the patio, making it versatile for any occasion. The light mayo and zesty lemon juice give it a refreshing twist that you won’t find in your typical chicken salad.

What Makes This Recipe Special

There are countless reasons to whip up this BLT Chicken Salad, but let’s highlight a few fabulous ones. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only about 15-20 minutes from start to finish, making it a go-to for busy weeknights. Second, it’s budget-friendly, especially if you utilize leftover chicken, making it gentle on your wallet while still feeling indulgent. Plus, with familiar ingredients like bacon and tomatoes, it’s kid-approved, ensuring the whole family will appreciate it.

“This salad is an absolute winner in our house! It’s light yet filling, and the bacon adds a delicious crunch. I love how quickly I can throw it together.” – A happy home cook

The Cooking Process Explained

Making this tasty BLT Chicken Salad is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Here’s how it comes together seamlessly: You’ll start by gathering fresh ingredients. Then, you’ll simply mix everything in one large bowl and prepare a creamy dressing to enhance all that flavor. Finally, combine the two, and you’re ready to serve! It’s that simple, making it a perfect recipe even for novice cooks.

Gather These Items

To get started, here’s what you’ll need for the BLT Chicken Salad:

3 cups cooked chicken, chopped (rotisserie chicken works wonders)
1 pound bacon, diced and cooked until crisp
1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half
1/2 small red onion, diced small
2 stalks celery, diced
1/2 cup mayonnaise (light or regular, as you prefer)
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Feel free to substitute the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative or use turkey bacon for a lighter version.

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped chicken, cooked bacon, cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and celery.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper until smooth and well combined.
Pour the creamy dressing over the chicken mixture and toss everything gently to coat evenly.
Serve right away for a fresh, crunchy salad, or chill for an hour in the fridge to let those flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This BLT Chicken Salad is delicious served in various ways. You could enjoy it on a bed of mixed greens for a fresh salad experience, or scoop it onto a toasted bun for a delightful sandwich. Pair it with your favorite side—think crispy potato chips or a light fruit salad— to complete the meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your BLT Chicken Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last for up to 3-4 days. Originally, this salad maintains its texture and taste at cool temperatures, so it’s great for meal prep! Unfortunately, freezing is not recommended due to the mayonnaise; the consistency will change once thawed.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For best results, make sure your bacon is extra crispy to ensure it maintains its crunch in the salad. If you like a little kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat. Preparing the salad a little in advance helps allow the flavors to meld, so it’s flavorful and ready to impress when it’s time to serve.

Recipe Variations

There are many exciting ways to customize this BLT Chicken Salad. You could add sliced avocado for a creamy texture or swap out the mayonnaise for mustard or hummus for a different flavor profile. Experiment with adding herbs like dill or basil for a fresh twist. Also, feel free to replace bacon with crispy chickpeas for a vegetarian version!

Your Questions Answered

How long does this salad last in the fridge? The BLT Chicken Salad typically stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe? Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this salad—it saves time and adds great flavor.
Is this salad gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for gluten-sensitive guests.
Can I make this salad ahead of time? Yes, making it a few hours ahead and letting it chill in the fridge will enhance the flavors even more.
What can I use instead of mayonnaise? You can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or even avocado for a healthier and different flavor.
Is there a way to make this salad vegan? For a vegan version, consider using chickpeas in place of chicken and vegan mayo in place of regular mayo.
How do I make this salad more filling? Add cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice for extra fiber and protein to make it more substantial.
What’s the best way to serve this salad at a gathering? Serve it in a large bowl for guests to serve themselves, or portion it into individual cups for single servings—perfect for picnics or potlucks!

This BLT Chicken Salad is sure to be a hit! Whether enjoyed on its own or with accompaniments, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please everyone at the table.