BLT Chicken Salad

A classic BLT sandwich transforms into a protein-packed chicken salad that combines tender shredded meat with crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado in every flavorful bite. This simple yet satisfying creation works equally well as meal prep for weekday lunches or an impressive party platter.

I discovered this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed quick, satisfying lunches that wouldn't leave me hungry an hour later. The combination of protein from the chicken, healthy fats from the avocado, and the irresistible flavor of bacon created something I found myself craving regularly. My teenage son, who typically dismisses "salads" of any kind, asked for seconds and then requested it in his lunch the next day - a true testament to its crowd-pleasing potential.

Perfect Components

• Rotisserie chicken: Provides tender, pre-cooked protein with minimal effort
• Crispy bacon: Delivers irresistible salty crunch and unmistakable smoky flavor
• Fresh tomatoes: Contribute juicy brightness that balances richer ingredients
• Ripe avocado: Adds creamy texture and heart-healthy fats
• Green onions: Offer mild onion flavor without overwhelming other ingredients
• Mayonnaise: Creates the perfect creamy base that binds everything together
• Ranch seasoning: Provides complex flavor without requiring multiple spice additions
• Fresh ground pepper: Enhances all flavors with subtle heat and depth

My personal favorite way to prepare this involves using slightly warm rotisserie chicken fresh from the store, which absorbs the dressing beautifully while cooling. I've found that hand-shredding rather than chopping the chicken creates more texture and helps the dressing cling to every piece. The first time I served this to friends, someone actually asked if I'd catered our lunch - high praise for something that took just minutes to prepare!

Assembly Method

Create your dressing base:

Combine mayonnaise with ranch seasoning and pepper in a large bowl until completely smooth.

Prepare protein foundation:

Shred rotisserie chicken into bite-sized pieces, removing any skin or bones in the process.

Add flavor dimensions:

Incorporate crumbled bacon and sliced green onions, distributing evenly throughout mixture.

Introduce fresh elements:

Gently fold in diced tomatoes, being careful not to crush them and release excessive juice.

Incorporate richness:

Add diced avocado last, folding delicately to maintain chunks while distributing throughout.

Allow flavor development:

Refrigerate mixture for at least one hour, allowing flavors to meld and texture to firm slightly.

Adjust final seasoning:

Taste after chilling and add additional pepper or ranch seasoning if needed before serving.

Serve appropriately:

Present with preferred dipping vehicles like crackers, chips or fresh vegetable slices.

This chicken salad has become something of a weekly staple in our house. What I appreciate most is how it satisfies everyone differently - my husband loves it with tortilla chips, I prefer it with cucumber rounds, and my kids actually eat it wrapped in lettuce (a minor miracle). The combination of protein and healthy fats keeps hunger at bay for hours, making it perfect for busy days when regular meal times might be disrupted.

Serving Suggestions

Spoon generous portions into crisp lettuce cups for a low-carb lunch that's both elegant and satisfying.

Serve as an impressive appetizer by mounding small portions on cucumber rounds, topped with additional bacon crumbles.

Create a DIY lunch board with the chicken salad as the centerpiece, surrounded by various dippers like crackers, vegetable sticks, and pita chips.

Pin it

Creative Variations

Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for additional protein and a nod to traditional cobb salad flavors.

Incorporate diced celery for extra crunch and freshness that complements the existing textures.

Swap the ranch seasoning for curry powder and add golden raisins for an unexpected global twist on the classic.

Pin it

Storage Strategies

Prepare individual portions in small containers without avocado, then add freshly diced avocado just before eating.

Store in glass containers rather than plastic to maintain freshness and prevent absorption of refrigerator odors.

Keep extra bacon crumbles separate and add just before serving to maintain maximum crispness.

What I love most about this recipe is how it transforms humble ingredients into something that feels special. The combination of textures - tender chicken, crisp bacon, juicy tomatoes, and creamy avocado - creates something far greater than the sum of its parts. It's become my go-to for impromptu gatherings, potlucks, and those weeks when cooking elaborate meals just isn't happening. Simple food, prepared thoughtfully, truly can be the most satisfying.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How long does this chicken salad keep in the refrigerator?

It keeps well for 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Add avocado only to portions you're about to eat to prevent browning.

→ Can I use canned chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, drained canned chicken works as a time-saving alternative, though rotisserie chicken provides better flavor and texture.

→ What can I use instead of Greek yogurt?

You can use all mayonnaise instead, or substitute sour cream for a different tangy flavor.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this salad?

Absolutely! Diced celery, red onion, or cucumber make great additions for extra crunch and flavor.

→ What's the best way to serve this chicken salad?

It's versatile - enjoy it with crackers, as lettuce wraps, in romaine boats, or with cucumber rounds for a low-carb option.