Healthy BLT Chicken Salad: A Protein-Packed Meal Ready in Minutes

Lily Hayes, food blogger and recipe developer at RecipeGap, smiling in a bright kitchen wearing a floral blouse
Published On: April 22, 2025
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Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

This healthy BLT chicken salad combines crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and fresh veggies in a lightened-up mayo dressing. It’s ready in just 20 minutes and perfect for quick lunches or meal prep.

Why You’ll Love Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

This protein-packed recipe transforms the classic BLT sandwich into a nutritious, low-carb salad that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. With crispy bacon, tender chicken, and crunchy vegetables tossed in a creamy yet light dressing, it’s both satisfying and diet-friendly. Perfect for meal prep, this versatile dish works beautifully as a sandwich filling, in lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl. It’s a time-saving solution that delivers big on taste without derailing your healthy eating goals.

Lettuce wrap filled with BLT chicken salad
Enjoy this protein-rich BLT chicken salad as a lettuce wrap for a keto-friendly meal option.

Healthy BLT Chicken Salad Ingredients

For the Salad:

  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup romaine lettuce, finely chopped
  • ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 avocado, diced (optional)

For the Dressing:

  • ⅓ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried dill
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Tools Used to Make Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Whisk or fork for mixing dressing
  • Airtight container for storage

How to Make Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

Process shot of mixing BLT chicken salad ingredients
Simple step-by-step process for creating this nutritious meal prep favorite.
  1. Cook the protein: If not using pre-cooked chicken, cook chicken breasts until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cool and dice or shred. Cook bacon until crispy, drain on paper towels, then crumble.
  2. Prep the veggies: Halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the red onion, chop the romaine lettuce, and if using, dice the avocado.
  3. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper.
  4. Combine: In a large bowl, add the chicken, crumbled bacon, tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion. Pour the dressing over the ingredients and gently toss until everything is well coated.
  5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Variations of Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

  • Mediterranean BLT: Add feta cheese, olives, and swap the dressing for a Greek yogurt tzatziki.
  • Southwest Style: Mix in black beans, corn, and avocado with a cilantro-lime dressing.
  • Cobb-Inspired: Add hard-boiled eggs and blue cheese crumbles.
  • Ranch Lover’s: Use this homemade ranch dressing instead of the yogurt mixture.
  • Low-Carb Keto: Use full-fat mayo instead of the yogurt for a higher fat, lower carb option.
Meal prep containers with BLT chicken salad portions
Prepare this protein-packed lunch ahead for healthy eating all week long.

Serving Healthy BLT Chicken Salad

This versatile salad can be served in multiple ways:

  • In a sandwich with whole grain bread
  • Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option
  • Stuffed in a pita pocket with extra greens
  • On top of mixed greens for a double salad experience
  • As a dip with whole grain crackers or cucumber slices

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does BLT chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

This salad stays fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. For best results, prepare all ingredients but keep the lettuce separate until ready to serve to maintain its crispness.

Is BLT chicken salad keto-friendly?

Yes, this recipe can easily be made keto-friendly by using full-fat mayo instead of Greek yogurt and ensuring your seasonings don’t contain added sugars.

What can I use instead of chicken?

Turkey, canned tuna, or hard-boiled eggs work great as protein alternatives in this recipe.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Simply substitute the Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt or use all mayonnaise (preferably avocado oil-based for a healthier option).

Final Thoughts

This healthy BLT chicken salad delivers all the classic flavors you love while keeping nutrition in check. Try it today and discover your new favorite lunch option—your taste buds and waistline will thank you!

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Lily Hayes, food blogger and recipe developer at RecipeGap, smiling in a bright kitchen wearing a floral blouse

Lily Hayes

Chef Lily Hayes - 15+ years professional kitchen experience. 500+ tested recipes. Featured in food publications. Certified in food safety. Trusted by 25,000+ home cooks for reliable, kitchen-tested recipes.

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