BLT Chicken Salad Recipe

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Original recipe yields 8 servings.

Ingredients

• 2/3 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/3 cup buttermilk or sour cream
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 3 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken (from one rotisserie chicken), or more to taste
• 1 1/2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered
• 8 strips bacon, crisp-cooked and crumbled
• 1 avocado - peeled, pitted, and chopped (optional)

Directions

1. Gather all ingredients.
2. In a large bowl, combine mayonnaise, green onions, buttermilk (or sour cream), and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the chopped chicken, grape tomatoes, and crumbled bacon to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined.
4. If desired, gently fold in the avocado just before serving.
5. Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Enjoy!

Cooking Bacon

For crispy bacon, cook it in the oven for a foolproof method. Simply place the strips on a baking sheet and cook in a preheated 400F (200C) oven for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy. Let the bacon cool before crumbling.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	320
Total Fat	26g
Saturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	75mg
Sodium	374mg
Total Carbohydrate	2g
Dietary Fiber	1g
Total Sugars	1g
Protein	19g
Vitamin C	5mg
Calcium	30mg
Iron	1mg
Potassium	282mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Fascinating Story Behind BLT Chicken Salad

The BLT Chicken Salad is a contemporary twist on the classic BLT sandwich, which itself dates back to the early 20th century in the United States. The original BLTbacon, lettuce, and tomatogained popularity for its simplicity and perfect balance of flavors. As culinary creativity evolved, chefs and home cooks began incorporating cooked chicken into the mix, transforming it into a hearty salad suitable for wraps, sandwiches, or standalone dishes. This adaptation not only adds protein but also makes the dish versatile for lunches, picnics, or casual dinners.

Regional Variations and Unique Twists

While the BLT Chicken Salad is rooted in American cuisine, its preparation varies across regions. In the South, it is common to include buttermilk or a tangy mayonnaise dressing, reflecting local culinary traditions. In California, avocado is often added for creaminess and a modern health-conscious touch. Some coastal areas favor grape tomatoes for their sweetness, while inland regions might use cherry or heirloom tomatoes. These small changes reflect the local produce and palate preferences, making the dish flexible yet recognizable.

How It Differs From Similar Dishes

BLT Chicken Salad differs from traditional chicken salad in both flavor and texture. Standard chicken salad usually focuses on chicken, mayonnaise, and perhaps celery or nuts, resulting in a creamy and mild profile. BLT Chicken Salad, however, emphasizes the smoky, savory flavor of bacon and the freshness of tomatoes and lettuce. This combination creates a more dynamic taste and varied texture, setting it apart from conventional chicken salads. Unlike a simple BLT sandwich, the salad allows for mixing and layering ingredients in new ways, enhancing both presentation and mouthfeel.

Typical Serving Occasions

BLT Chicken Salad is frequently served in casual dining settings, from cafs to backyard gatherings. It works well as a filling for lettuce wraps, a topping for toast, or alongside crackers for appetizer platters. Due to its light yet satisfying composition, it is often chosen for lunch menus, picnic spreads, and even summer potlucks. Some restaurants offer it as a seasonal special, highlighting local produce like fresh tomatoes and leafy greens.

Interesting Facts About the Dish

• The BLT Chicken Salad can be traced back to the rise of convenience cooking in the late 20th century, particularly when rotisserie chicken became widely available in grocery stores.
• Adding avocado not only enhances creaminess but also boosts the dishs nutritional profile with healthy fats and vitamins.
• Although the BLT sandwich traditionally uses toasted white bread, the salad version allows for gluten-free or low-carb adaptations, increasing its popularity among health-conscious eaters.
• The dish highlights the trend of hybrid recipes, combining familiar favorites to create something both nostalgic and new.
• In some regions, chefs garnish the salad with microgreens or a light vinaigrette, offering a gourmet twist on a homey classic.

FAQ about BLT Chicken Salad Recipe