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I first discovered this recipe during a summer potluck when my neighbor brought something similar that had everyone asking for the recipe. The combination seemed so obvious yet brilliant - why hadn't I thought of mixing BLT flavors into chicken salad before? When I recreated it at home, I focused on getting the ratios just right. The key is using really good quality bacon that's extra crispy, so it doesn't get soggy in the salad. I like to use rotisserie chicken for convenience, but leftover grilled or roasted chicken works wonderfully too. The celery adds that essential crunch factor, while the lemon juice brightens everything up and prevents the chicken from getting too heavy. What I love most is how the croissant becomes part of the dish - it's not just a vessel, but an integral component that soaks up just enough of the creamy dressing to become incredibly flavorful.
Why I love this recipe
This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it represents the perfect balance of comfort and freshness. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something that feels restaurant-quality. The texture contrast is incredible - you get the flaky, buttery croissant, the creamy chicken salad, the crispy bacon, and the fresh crunch of vegetables all in one bite. It's also incredibly versatile. I've served it at elegant brunches and casual picnics with equal success. The fact that you can prepare the chicken salad ahead of time makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prep. But what I truly adore is how this recipe brings people together. Every time I make it, someone asks for the recipe, and I love sharing it because I know they'll create their own happy memories around this simple but spectacular dish.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Cooked chicken breast: shred into bite-sized pieces
- Bacon strips: cook until crispy and crumble
- Fresh tomato: dice into small cubes
- Fresh lettuce: chop into bite-sized pieces
- Mayonnaise: use as binding agent for the salad
- Celery: finely dice for crunch
- Croissants: split and stuff with chicken salad
Let's Make These Together
- Cook the bacon crispy
- Start by cooking your bacon strips in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook them until they're nice and crispy - this usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Transfer them to paper towels to drain off excess grease, then crumble them into small pieces once they're cool enough to handle.
- Prepare all the vegetables
- While the bacon cools, dice your tomato into small, uniform cubes. Chop the lettuce into bite-sized pieces, and finely dice the celery. Having everything prepared beforehand makes the assembly much easier.
- Make the chicken base
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your shredded chicken with the mayonnaise, diced celery, and fresh lemon juice. Mix everything together until the chicken is well coated with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the BLT components
- Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and chopped lettuce. Be careful not to overmix - you want to maintain the distinct textures and flavors of each component.
- Assemble and serve
- Split your croissants and generously fill them with the BLT chicken salad. Serve immediately for the best texture, or wrap individually if you're preparing them ahead of time.
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Switch Things Up
I remember the first time I made this recipe, I was trying to use up leftover roasted chicken from Sunday dinner. I had some bacon in the fridge and fresh tomatoes from my garden, so I thought, why not combine the flavors of a BLT with chicken salad? The result was absolutely incredible! Now, I make extra chicken just so I can whip up this salad the next day. Sometimes I add avocado slices or swap the croissants for toasted sourdough bread. My family always gets excited when they see me pulling out the bacon because they know this amazing chicken salad is coming. It's become our go-to summer lunch, especially when we want something filling but not too heavy.
Perfect Pairings
This BLT Chicken Salad pairs beautifully with crispy kettle chips or sweet potato fries for added crunch. Serve alongside a fresh fruit salad with berries and melon to balance the richness of the mayonnaise. For beverages, try it with iced tea, lemonade, or a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. A simple side of pickles and olives adds a nice tangy contrast, while a bowl of tomato soup makes for a comforting combination on cooler days.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this chicken salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken salad up to 24 hours in advance. However, add the lettuce just before serving to maintain its crispness and prevent the salad from becoming watery.
- → What can I substitute for mayonnaise?
You can use Greek yogurt, avocado mash, or a combination of both for a healthier alternative. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
- → Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover turkey works wonderfully in this recipe. It's especially great after Thanksgiving when you have plenty of turkey to use up.
- → How long does this chicken salad keep?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, this chicken salad will keep for 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container and always use clean utensils when serving.
- → What other bread options work well?
This chicken salad is versatile! Try it on toasted sourdough, in pita pockets, on bagels, or even over a bed of greens for a lighter option. Whole grain breads also add nice texture and nutrition.
Conclusion
This BLT Chicken Salad brings together the best of two beloved classics - the iconic BLT sandwich and creamy chicken salad. The combination of crispy bacon, fresh vegetables, and tender chicken creates a satisfying meal that works perfectly for lunch, picnics, or casual dinners. The buttery croissant elevates this dish from simple to spectacular, making every bite a delightful experience. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual gathering, this recipe delivers on both flavor and convenience.