The Ultimate BLT Chicken Salad is a fresh and filling dish that combines all the best parts of a classic BLT sandwich with juicy grilled chicken. Crisp lettuce, salty bacon, ripe tomatoes, and tender chicken come together with a creamy dressing that ties all the flavors perfectly. It’s like having your favorite sandwich but in a big, hearty bowl.
I love making this salad when I want something that feels both light and satisfying. The crispy bacon adds a nice crunch, and the chicken makes it feel like a real meal, not just a side. I like to use a little extra dressing on the side so everyone can add as much as they want—it’s all about finding that perfect balance.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with some warm crusty bread or even tucked inside an avocado half for a twist. It’s a great dish for lunch or a casual dinner, and it’s always a hit when I bring it to potlucks or family gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to throw together and feels like a treat without being too heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Romaine Lettuce
- This is great for its crunch and freshness. If you want something softer, try butter lettuce or mixed greens instead.
- Chicken Breasts
- Grilled chicken adds protein and smoky flavor. You can swap for rotisserie chicken or even cooked turkey for a quick option.
- Bacon
- Bacon brings saltiness and crunch. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon can work well if you want a lighter or meat-free choice.
- Cherry Tomatoes
- They add sweetness and juiciness. If you don’t have cherry tomatoes, regular tomatoes chopped into bite-size pieces are perfect.
- Blue Cheese
- It gives the salad a nice tangy bite. You can substitute with feta, goat cheese, or skip cheese for a milder flavor.
How Do I Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken for the Salad?
Grilling chicken just right is key to this salad. Here’s how to get juicy and flavorful chicken:
- Pat the chicken dry and season well with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Preheat the grill or pan to medium heat to avoid burning outside while undercooking inside.
- Cook the chicken about 6-7 minutes per side, turning only once for nice grill marks.
- Check doneness by cutting the thickest part to make sure it’s no longer pink.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before chopping—this keeps it juicy.
These steps help avoid dry chicken and make your salad extra tasty and satisfying.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill pan or outdoor grill – perfect for cooking chicken evenly with a nice char.
- Sharp chef’s knife – helps you chop lettuce, chicken, and bacon cleanly and quickly.
- Cutting board – a sturdy surface to safely prep all your ingredients.
- Large salad bowl or platter – roomy enough to hold and mix all the salad ingredients.
- Paper towels – great for draining excess grease from the bacon after cooking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap grilled chicken for crispy fried chicken for a crunchy twist that adds extra texture.
- Use turkey bacon or tempeh bacon for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
- Try adding avocado slices for creaminess and healthy fats that balance the salty bacon.
- Mix in fresh herbs like basil or chives to add a bright, fresh note to the salad.
Ultimate BLT Chicken Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and chopped
- 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles (or your choice of cheese)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Dressing of your choice (ranch, blue cheese, or a simple vinaigrette)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This salad takes about 25-30 minutes to prepare. Grilling the chicken takes around 15 minutes, cooking bacon about 10 minutes, and the rest is quick chopping and assembling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, then crumble or chop it into pieces.
3. Assemble the Salad:
Place the chopped romaine lettuce in a large salad bowl or platter. Arrange the grilled chicken evenly over the lettuce. Add the crumbled bacon on top, then scatter the halved cherry tomatoes. Sprinkle the blue cheese crumbles on one side for a yummy contrast.
4. Finish and Serve:
Season the salad with extra salt and freshly ground black pepper if you like. Serve with your favorite dressing on the side or lightly drizzled on top. Toss gently when serving so all the flavors blend together nicely. Enjoy your fresh, flavorful Ultimate BLT Chicken Salad!
Can I Use Pre-Cooked or Rotisserie Chicken?
Yes! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just chop it up and add it directly to the salad—no need to grill.
What Can I Substitute for Blue Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, feta or goat cheese are delicious alternatives. For a dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese or use a plant-based substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the lettuce from getting soggy. Toss just before serving.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken, bacon, and veggies in advance and store them separately. Assemble the salad and add dressing right before serving for the freshest taste.