Name: Shredded Blt Chicken Salad Recipe
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 0 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes
Yield: 16-20
Ingredients: - 1 lb. chicken breasts boiled and shredded; - 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved; - 6 slices bacon about ½ cup, cooked and crumbled; - ½ cup sharp white cheddar freshly grated; - ⅓ cup red onion finely diced; - pinch kosher salt to season; - few turns cracked black pepper to season; - ½ cup 0% Greek yogurt; - 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; - 2 tablespoons chives chopped small; - 1 teaspoon lemon juice fresh squeezed; - ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard; - ½ teaspoon onion powder; - ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; - ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; - few turns cracked black pepper to taste; - 2 tablespoons water to thin dressing, adjust accordingly

When the sun streams through my kitchen window, casting a golden glow over the countertop, I find myself reaching for the vibrant ingredients that make up my all-time favorite: Shredded BLT Chicken Salad. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly combines the savory crispness of bacon with the refreshing crunch of lettuce and the juicy burst of cherry tomatoes. This recipe brings those classic flavors together with tender, shredded chicken, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate. It’s convenient, delicious, and perfect for those moments when you want something hearty yet light.

I remember a lazy Sunday afternoon, the air filled with the tempting aroma of sizzling bacon. As I tossed the salad, the fresh lettuce crackling under my fingers, and the juicy tomatoes bursting with color, my family gathered around the table. The first bite was an explosion of flavors, and laughter echoed as we shared stories, making it a cherished tradition.

Tracing the roots of a delicious blend

The Shredded BLT Chicken Salad is a delightful twist on the classic BLT sandwich, thought to have emerged from the bustling kitchens of the 1960s. The salad offers a fresh spin by incorporating shredded chicken, creating a hearty yet refreshing meal. It blends crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce, all tossed with tender chicken shreds—perfect for those craving comfort with a touch of sophistication. Over time, it’s evolved to include avocado or different dressings, making it versatile and beloved in modern kitchens. This salad celebrates simplicity and flavor in every bite.

What’s in the mix?

When it comes to whipping up a Shredded BLT Chicken Salad, each ingredient is like a trusty sidekick, essential in crafting a dish that’s full of texture and flavor. Let’s explore why every element is a must-have and how they come together to create a salad that’s sure to delight.

Chicken Breasts: 🐔 Shredded and tender, these are the hearty base of our salad. Opt for organic if you can, it makes a difference! Tried turkey once, but it wasn’t quite the same. Protein-packed and satisfying.
Cherry Tomatoes: 🍅 Juicy gems that bring in a burst of sweetness. I like the heirloom variety for their unique flavor. In a pinch, grape tomatoes work too. Rich in vitamins, they brighten up your bowl beautifully.
Bacon: 🥓 Crispy, salty goodness crumbled to perfection. Quality counts, so I reach for nitrate-free when possible. Once, I swapped in turkey bacon, but nothing beats the original for that smoky punch.
Sharp White Cheddar: 🧀 Freshly grated for creamy sharpness. Go for an aged block if you can, it packs more flavor. I’ve tried Gouda as a sub—it’s interesting but alters the vibe. Cheddar’s calcium boost is a bonus.
Red Onion: 🧅 Finely diced, these add a spicy crunch. A sweet onion could work if you prefer milder flavors. Look for firm bulbs with tight skin—they’re the freshest. Onions bring antioxidants to the table too.
Kosher Salt & Cracked Black Pepper: 🧂 These seasonings are your best friends here, bringing everything to life with just the right amount of zing. Always season to taste, it’s a personal touch that makes all the difference.
Greek Yogurt: 🥛 Creamy and tangy, it lightens up the dressing. If you’re out, sour cream could suffice but lacks the same protein punch. I love the 0% fat version for guilt-free richness.
Mayonnaise: 🥄 Just enough for luscious texture. I go for full-fat for that classic taste, though light versions work if you’re watching calories. It’s our secret to a velvety dressing.
Chives: 🌿 Chopped small, they offer a subtle oniony kick. Scallions make a decent stand-in. Choose vibrant green chives for the freshest flavor. They add a dash of vitamin K to the mix.
Lemon Juice: 🍋 Freshly squeezed for a zesty brightness. Bottled juice just doesn’t cut it for me. A lemon’s acidity lifts the whole dish.
Dijon Mustard: 🥄 A teaspoon of this brings depth. I’ve tried spicy brown mustard, which adds a different flair. Dijon’s mild heat and tang are perfect here.
Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: 🧄 Essential for an aromatic boost. If you’re out, minced garlic can step in, though the flavor shifts.
Water: 💧 Adjusts the dressing’s thickness. Start with a tablespoon and see how it goes. It’s the secret to achieving just the right consistency.

And there you have it, each ingredient playing its unique role in this scrumptious salad. Dive in with confidence and enjoy every bite!

Must-have gadgets for a flawless BLT chicken salad!🍽️

In the heart of every kitchen, a few essential tools make cooking a breeze. Here’s a quick rundown of must-haves that can transform culinary tasks into sheer joy:

Chef’s Knife: A sharp, sturdy chef’s knife is your best friend in the kitchen. It slices, dices, and chops with ease, making meal prep quick and efficient. If a chef’s knife isn’t available, a paring knife can handle smaller tasks.
Cutting Board: A good quality cutting board protects your countertops and keeps your knife sharp. Wooden or bamboo boards are gentle on blades, while plastic ones are easier to sanitize.
Mixing Bowls: Versatile and indispensable, mixing bowls are perfect for whisking, mixing, and serving. Metal bowls work well for quick chilling, whereas glass bowls are microwave-safe and great for marinating.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in cooking and baking. These tools ensure consistency every time. If you’re in a pinch, a regular cup and tablespoon can be improvised with some practice.
Tongs: Ideal for flipping, turning, and serving, tongs keep your hands safe from heat. If tongs are missing, a spatula or a large fork can stand in.

With these trusty tools, every dish becomes a delightful adventure!

Creating the perfect shredded BLT chicken salad👩‍🍳

Step 1: Cook and Shred the Chicken
Boil the chicken breasts in a pot of salted water over medium heat until cooked through, which should take about 15-20 minutes. Once the chicken is fully cooked, allow it to cool slightly before shredding it using two forks. You can also use your hands if you prefer, just make sure it’s cool enough to handle! Set the shredded chicken aside as we move on to the next step.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden brown. Transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease. Once it’s cool, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Remember, crumbled bacon is a delightful addition that will add a delicious crunch to your salad.
Step 3: Mix the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, crumbled bacon, freshly grated sharp white cheddar, and finely diced red onion. Sprinkle a pinch of kosher salt and a few turns of cracked black pepper over the mixture. Toss everything together gently to ensure even distribution of all the ingredients. This is where your salad starts to take shape!
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a separate bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, chopped chives, fresh lemon juice, Dijon mustard, onion powder, garlic powder, kosher salt, and a few turns of cracked black pepper. If the dressing seems too thick, add water, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency. Whisk until smooth and creamy, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.
Step 5: Combine Salad and Dressing
Pour the dressing over the salad mixture in the large bowl. Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold the dressing into the salad until everything is well coated. You want every bite to have a good mix of each component for the best flavor experience.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
Once mixed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the salad chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, give it one last gentle stir and enjoy your shredded BLT chicken salad as a main dish or a side. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner!

Twist your salad with these exciting ideas

For a gluten-free twist, swap out the breadcrumbs for almond flour, and you’ll find this adds a delightful nuttiness to the texture without compromising on the flavor. You might be surprised at how well it holds the meatballs together! If you’re aiming for a vegan version, replace the chicken with chickpeas, the yogurt with coconut yogurt, and the bacon with smoked tempeh; this delivers a remarkably hearty and satisfying salad. For a touch of Italian flair, add sun-dried tomatoes and a sprinkle of oregano. The Mediterranean vibes will be as refreshing as they are flavorful!

Creative ways to serve it up!

Imagine your Shredded BLT Chicken Salad elegantly nestled in crisp lettuce cups, offering a delightful crunch with each bite. Arrange them on a large, rustic wooden platter for that charming, farm-to-table vibe. Sprinkle a few chopped chives on top for a pop of color and flavor—like confetti at a celebration!

Add some thinly sliced radishes for a peppery kick, their vibrant pink hue brightening the plate. Pair this with a side of freshly baked garlic baguette slices or buttery croissants, perfect for soaking up any creamy dressing that dares to escape. Your guests won’t just be eating—they’ll be delightedly indulging!

Sip suggestions for your shredded BLT delight

When I whip up a Shredded BLT Chicken Salad, I like to sip on something refreshing and light. I usually go for a tall glass of iced green tea. It’s got that right balance of earthy and floral notes, which feels like a gentle hug for my taste buds. If you’re looking to add a little zing, you might try infusing your water with a splash of lemon or cucumber. It’s like turning your hydration game up to Level Awesome. Trust me, these picks keep things crisp and complement the savory bacon and creamy dressing perfectly.

Keeping leftovers fresh and tasty!

To keep your shredded BLT chicken salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. This prevents the lettuce from wilting and keeps the flavors vibrant. When you’re ready to enjoy some more, give it a quick toss to redistribute the dressing. If you prefer it warm, gently heat the chicken separately in a microwave for 30 seconds until just warm, taking care not to overcook. Remember, always keep your salad at a safe temperature by not leaving it out for more than two hours to avoid any nasty surprises.

Avoid these common mistakes 🖐️

Creating the perfect Shredded BLT Chicken Salad can sometimes be a bit of a puzzle, but fret not, we’re here to help you figure it out.

One common hiccup is overcooking the chicken. Dry, rubbery chicken can turn a delightful salad into a chore. To avoid this, keep a close eye and boil until just cooked through. Alternatively, try poaching for tender, juicy results.

Another slip-up is using bottled lemon juice instead of fresh. It might seem like a minor detail, but fresh lemon juice adds a bright, zesty kick that’s simply irreplaceable.

Let’s talk bacon. Cooking it until it’s just right can sometimes feel like a guessing game. Aim for crispy, but not burnt; this adds the perfect contrasting texture to your salad.

And remember, when it comes to seasoning, taste as you go. It’s easy to under or over-season, especially with salt. Add a pinch, taste, and adjust.

Lastly, if the dressing is too thick, a few teaspoons of water will achieve that perfect, creamy consistency. Each drop counts, so stir in gradually.

With these tips and a little practice, your Shredded BLT Chicken Salad will be a flavorful masterpiece every time!

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for the Shredded BLT Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Just shred it and toss it in with the other ingredients. It’s all about making meal prep as easy as possible!
Is there a healthier substitute for mayonnaise in the salad dressing?

Yes, you can substitute the mayonnaise with more Greek yogurt. This will still give your dressing a creamy texture while keeping it lighter and packed with protein.
What’s the best way to cook bacon for this salad?

You can cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat, or even bake it in the oven on a lined baking sheet if you prefer a hands-off approach. Just make sure it’s nice and crispy before crumbling it into the salad.
Can this salad be made in advance?

Certainly! You can prepare the salad and dressing separately and store them in the fridge. Combine them just before serving to keep everything fresh and crunchy.
What are some good substitutions for cheddar cheese?

If you’re looking to switch things up, try using mozzarella or feta cheese. Each brings a unique flavor and texture that complements the salad beautifully.

Wrap up your salad journey🎉

In the grand tapestry of quick and delightful meals, our Shredded BLT Chicken Salad makes a shining appearance. It’s one of those dishes that easily wins your heart and satisfies hunger pangs with a burst of flavors. Why not give it a whirl in your own kitchen? It’s practically begging for a personal touch—maybe a sprinkle of your favorite cheese or a dash of spice? Go ahead, make it your own masterpiece. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple tweaks can create a new favorite for your weekly rotation. Happy cooking, my friend!