Why BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado Is a Must-Try

If you’re searching for a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious meal that feels indulgent without the guilt, look no further than BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado. This vibrant salad combines the irresistible classic flavors of a BLT with tender grilled chicken and creamy avocado for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic, this recipe blends smokiness, crispiness, and creaminess in one bowl, making it a must-try for anyone who loves bold, wholesome food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Combination of Flavors: The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the creamy avocado and juicy chicken to create a balanced, crave-worthy dish.
• Nutritious and Filling: Packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, this salad keeps you energized and satisfied for hours.
• Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients come together quickly, making it a great option for busy weekdays or last-minute meals.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether you need a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad can be dressed up or down to suit the moment.
• Customizable to Your Taste: You can easily swap out ingredients or add favorites while still enjoying the core flavors of BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because of its simplicity and the quality of ingredients used. Each adds a unique texture and flavor, creating an irresistible blend in every bite.

• Grilled Chicken Breast: Tender and juicy, it adds protein and a savory base to the salad.
• Crispy Bacon: Provides smoky crunch that contrasts wonderfully with creamy elements.
• Ripe Avocado: Brings smooth creaminess and healthy fats for a rich mouthfeel.
• Fresh Romaine Lettuce: Offers crispness and freshness, balancing the richer ingredients.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Add bursts of juiciness and vibrant color.
• Red Onion: Offers a subtle sharpness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• Mayonnaise or Dressing: A light touch binds everything together and amps up the taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing natural flavors.

Variations for BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado

One of the best parts of this salad is how easy it is to tweak it to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

• Swap Chicken for Turkey or Tofu: Ideal for those seeking a different protein source or a vegetarian option.
• Use Greek Yogurt Dressing: Add a tangy twist and lighten up the salad by replacing mayo with creamy Greek yogurt.
• Add Crunch with Nuts: Toasted almonds or pecans can boost texture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: Toss in jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the salad a little heat.
• Make it a Wrap: Use large lettuce leaves or whole-grain tortillas to turn the salad into a handheld meal.

How to Make BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill or pan-sear them over medium heat until cooked through and golden brown. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it thinly for the salad.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the chicken is cooking, crisp your bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Remove it once it’s deliciously crunchy and drain on paper towels to remove excess grease, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Chop the Fresh Ingredients

Wash and dry the romaine lettuce, then chop it into manageable pieces. Slice cherry tomatoes in half, thinly slice the red onion, and dice the ripe avocado into creamy cubes.

Step 4: Toss the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine the lettuce, tomatoes, onions, avocado, chicken slices, and crispy bacon. Add a generous spoonful of mayonnaise or your preferred dressing, tossing everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper and a pinch of sea salt to taste. Serve immediately, or chill briefly to let flavors meld before enjoying your BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado.

Pro Tips for Making BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado

• Use Ripe Avocados: Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the best creamy texture.
• Don’t Overdress: Add dressing gradually to avoid sogginess and keep each bite fresh.
• Cook Bacon Slowly: Render bacon fat over medium-low heat to get evenly crispy bacon without burning.
• Rest Chicken Before Slicing: Let cooked chicken rest to keep it juicy and tender in the salad.
• Serve Immediately: This salad tastes best fresh; avocado browns quickly if left too long.

How to Serve BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado

Garnishes

Finish your BLT Chicken Salad with a few fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives, sprinkle with crispy bacon bits, or drizzle a little smoked paprika oil for a beautiful presentation and added flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this salad with crusty artisan bread, garlic toast, or a light soup like tomato basil to round out your meal without overpowering the main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the salad inside hollowed-out avocado halves, stack it as a layered bowl, or wrap it in large lettuce leaves or tortillas for a fun and portable option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the salad components separately whenever possible—especially the avocado and dressing—to prevent sogginess. Keep everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Freezing

Freezing is not recommended for this salad because the fresh veggies and avocado lose their texture and flavor, but cooked chicken and bacon can be frozen separately for future use.

Reheating

Warm chicken and bacon gently in a skillet or microwave before adding them back to fresh veggies and avocado. Avoid reheating the whole salad to maintain the crisp and creamy textures.

FAQs

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative and will maintain the smoky crunch that’s essential in BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado.

What is the best way to keep avocado from browning?

Adding avocado just before serving and gently tossing with lemon or lime juice can help slow browning, keeping your salad looking fresh and appetizing.

Can this salad be made dairy-free?

Yes, simply replace mayonnaise with a dairy-free dressing or olive oil-based vinaigrette to keep it creamy without dairy.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepped in advance if you store components separately, but it’s best assembled right before eating for optimal freshness.

How spicy can I make this salad?

Feel free to add jalapeños or chili flakes to adjust the heat to your liking without altering the core flavors of the BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that’s vibrant, nourishing, and bursting with flavor, the BLT Chicken Salad with Avocado is your go-to recipe. It’s simple enough for a weekday meal yet impressive enough to share with friends and family. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite salad that brings together the very best of classic and fresh ingredients in one bowl.

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