The Ultimate BLT Chicken Salad Recipe: Crispy, Creamy, and Packed with Flavor

There are few things in life more satisfying than a well-made chicken salad. It’s that comforting, versatile dish you can whip up for lunch, a casual family dinner, or a quick picnic in the park. But today, we’re not talking about your average chicken salad — we’re going for a bold twist on a classic: BLT Chicken Salad.

Yes, you read that right. We’re combining the irresistible flavors of a BLT sandwich with tender, juicy chicken and a creamy dressing that ties it all together. If you’ve never tried this before, trust me — you’re in for a treat.

In this post, I’ll share not just a foolproof BLT Chicken Salad recipe, but also a little background on the dish, handy substitution ideas, my favorite kitchen tips, and even a few variations if you’re looking to keep it keto, low-carb, or vegetarian. Let’s dive in.

A Little Backstory: Where Did BLT Chicken Salad Come From?

The classic BLT sandwich — bacon, lettuce, and tomato — has been a staple of American diners and home kitchens since the early 1900s. According to food historians, the sandwich likely evolved from Victorian-era tea sandwiches, with the acronym “BLT” first appearing in print around the 1940s (Smithsonian Magazine).

As for BLT Chicken Salad, it’s a modern mashup that took off in the early 2000s, especially as food bloggers and chefs started experimenting with remixing classic sandwiches into salads and wraps. Adding shredded or cubed chicken transforms this simple combo into a satisfying, protein-packed dish perfect for lunch meal prep or a light dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need (and Smart Substitutions)

Let’s talk about what goes into making the best BLT Chicken Salad — and how you can easily swap ingredients based on what’s in your fridge.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (rotisserie works wonders)
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Tips & Substitutions:

• Chicken: Leftover roast chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken saves time. You can also poach chicken breasts if you prefer a lighter option.
• Bacon: Turkey bacon or plant-based bacon works great for lighter or vegetarian versions.
• Tomatoes: Grape tomatoes, diced Roma, or even sun-dried tomatoes add variety.
• Mayo: Swap with avocado mayo for a healthier fat profile or use all Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing.
• Dijon Mustard: Regular yellow mustard works in a pinch but lacks the depth Dijon brings.
• Herbs: Dill, basil, or green onions make great additions if you’re out of chives or parsley.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad (Step-by-Step)

This recipe is incredibly easy — you can throw it together in 20 minutes flat. Here’s how I do it:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.

Kitchen Tip: For perfect crispy bacon with minimal mess, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Pro Insight: I like adding a splash of the bacon drippings to the dressing for a smoky kick — optional, but worth trying!

Step 3: Toss the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved tomatoes, and chopped lettuce.

Step 4: Combine and Chill

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to coat. If possible, refrigerate for 15-20 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Top with fresh herbs and serve as is, in lettuce cups, stuffed into a wrap, or on toasted sourdough bread.

Helpful Cooking Tips & Troubleshooting

• Chicken too dry? Poach your chicken breasts gently in salted water with a bay leaf and garlic for tender, juicy meat.
• Dressing too thick? Thin it out with a splash of milk or lemon juice.
• Want extra crunch? Add diced cucumber or red onion.
• Prepping ahead? Keep the lettuce separate until just before serving to avoid sogginess.

Serving Suggestions & Pairing Ideas

This BLT Chicken Salad is incredibly versatile. Here’s how I love serving it:

• In lettuce cups for a light, low-carb meal.
• On crusty sourdough or a croissant for a café-style lunch.
• With tortilla chips for a fun, shareable appetizer.
• Alongside a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting dinner.

For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and creamy dressing.

Recipe Variations for Every Diet

Whether you’re keto, vegetarian, or just craving a twist, here are a few easy adjustments:

Keto/Low-Carb BLT Chicken Salad:

• Use full-fat mayo and skip the tomatoes or use them sparingly (they’re higher in carbs).
• Serve in lettuce cups or on a bed of arugula.

Vegetarian BLT-Style Salad:

• Swap chicken with roasted chickpeas or diced tofu.
• Use plant-based bacon strips (many brands like Lightlife and MorningStar make solid options).

Dairy-Free Version:

• Replace sour cream/Greek yogurt with a dairy-free alternative like coconut yogurt.
• Check your bacon brand for dairy-free labeling.

Is BLT Chicken Salad Healthy?

In moderation — absolutely. This dish is high in protein thanks to the chicken and bacon, and rich in nutrients from the lettuce and tomatoes.

According to the USDA, a serving of skinless cooked chicken breast contains about 165 calories and 31g of protein per 3.5 oz (100g) (source).

Opt for lean bacon or turkey bacon to cut saturated fat, and sub Greek yogurt for sour cream if you’re watching calories.

Final Thoughts: Why You’ll Love This BLT Chicken Salad

If you’re looking for an easy chicken salad recipe that’s bold, satisfying, and endlessly customizable, this BLT Chicken Salad is a must-try. It takes the nostalgic flavors of a BLT sandwich and turns them into a salad that’s hearty enough to be a meal, but light enough to leave you feeling good after.

And if you enjoy creative chicken twists, you should absolutely check out my Chicken Philly Cheesesteak recipe — it’s a game changer for sandwich nights!

I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Drop a comment below with your own tweaks and pairings. And if you’re as into chicken salads as I am, be sure to check out my other favorites like Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad or Avocado Ranch Chicken Salad.

Happy cooking!