Ingredients
To create this delightful BLT Chicken Salad, you’ll need a few simple, quality ingredients that come together in a symphony of flavors:
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These are the heart of the salad, offering a tender, protein-rich base.
– Bacon: Crispy and salty, it adds that quintessential BLT flavor.
– Romaine lettuce: Fresh and crunchy, it provides the perfect backdrop for the other ingredients.
– Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they bring a burst of color and flavor.
– Avocado: Creamy and rich, it complements the other textures beautifully.
– Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of bite and depth.
– Mayonnaise: For a creamy, cohesive dressing.
– Lime juice: A splash brightens up the dressing, adding a fresh tang.
– Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing the natural flavors of each ingredient.
These ingredients are like old friends, familiar and comforting, just as Mama Lou’s kitchen always was—a place where love was the secret ingredient in every dish.
Instructions
Creating this BLT Chicken Salad is like reliving a cherished memory, each step unfolding with ease and familiarity:
1. **Cook the bacon:** In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel, setting aside.
2. **Prepare the chicken:** Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until golden brown and cooked through. Allow it to rest before slicing.
3. **Assemble the salad:** In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, and thinly sliced red onion.
4. **Make the dressing:** In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create a creamy dressing that ties everything together.
5. **Combine and serve:** Add the sliced chicken and crumbled bacon to the salad, drizzle with dressing, and toss gently to combine. Serve immediately, and savor each bite.
As I work through these steps, I can almost hear Mama Lou’s voice, guiding me with her gentle wisdom, reminding me that the true magic of cooking lies in the love we pour into each dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International