--- title: BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe – Healthy & Delicious url: https://optimalrecipes.com/blt-balsamic-chicken-avocado-salad-recipe-healthy-delicious/ author: Maria Jannet published: 2024-09-30 updated: 2026-03-31 image: https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/BLT-Balsamic-Chicken-Avocado-Salad-Recipe.webp categories: ["Dinner Ideas"] site: Optimal Recipes --- # BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe – Healthy & Delicious > Welcome to this delightful and nourishing recipe for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad! If you're a fan of BLTs but looking for a healthier twist, you're in the right place. This salad is a flavorful fusion of classic BLT ingredients combined with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and a tangy balsamic... ![BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe – Healthy & Delicious](https://optimalrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/BLT-Balsamic-Chicken-Avocado-Salad-Recipe.webp) ## Article Welcome to this delightful and nourishing recipe for *BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad*! If you’re a fan of BLTs but looking for a healthier twist, you’re in the right place. This salad is a flavorful fusion of classic BLT ingredients combined with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and a tangy balsamic dressing that doubles as a marinade. Whether you’re preparing a wholesome lunch or an elegant dinner, this salad is sure to satisfy your cravings. #### Introduction The *BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad* offers a unique take on the beloved BLT sandwich, but without the bread. Originating from the traditional bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich, this salad elevates the dish by adding tender, balsamic-marinated chicken and fresh avocado slices. It’s a versatile and easy-to-make meal, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With every bite, you’ll enjoy a blend of textures and flavors that highlight the best aspects of a BLT while maintaining a lighter, more nutritious profile. #### Ingredients for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Here’s a complete list of ingredients you’ll need to recreate this delicious salad: - Balsamic Dressing / Marinade: ⅓ cup balsamic vinegar - ¼ cup olive oil - 2 tablespoons water (or more oil if desired) - 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning - 2 teaspoons garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon honey - ¼-½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) - For the Salad: 4 skinless, boneless chicken thigh fillets or breast fillets - 5 ounces bacon, diced and trimmed of all fat - 8 cups mixed salad leaves (Romaine or Cos lettuce leaves) - 2 tomatoes, chopped - 1 red onion, thinly sliced - 1 avocado, sliced - ¼ cup feta cheese, crumbled - 1 pinch of Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste *Optional Substitutions:* - Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese or omit for a dairy-free version. - Use turkey bacon for a leaner option. - For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken with roasted chickpeas. #### How to Make BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad – Step by Step **Step 1:** Prepare the Balsamic Dressing Whisk together all the balsamic dressing ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the dressing for marinating the chicken. The remaining dressing will be used to drizzle over the salad later. **Step 2:** Marinate the Chicken Place the chicken fillets in a shallow dish. Pour the reserved dressing over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside to marinate for at least 10 minutes. **Step 3:** Cook the Bacon In a skillet over medium-high heat, fry the diced bacon until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon onto a plate lined with paper towels, allowing it to drain. **Step 4:** Cook the Chicken Wipe the skillet clean and add the marinated chicken fillets. Cook for about 7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. **Step 5:** Assemble the Salad In a large salad bowl, layer the salad greens, chopped tomatoes, sliced red onions, and avocado slices. Top with the cooked chicken and bacon. **Step 6:** Add Feta and Seasonings Sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese and a pinch of Italian seasoning over the salad. Season with salt and pepper to taste. **Step 7:** Serve Drizzle the remaining balsamic dressing over the salad and toss gently. Serve immediately and enjoy! #### Helpful Tips for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad - Marinating the Chicken: Let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes to enhance the flavor. If time allows, marinate for up to 30 minutes for a more intense taste. - Choosing Avocados: Select ripe but firm avocados to maintain their shape in the salad. - Crisping the Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15 minutes instead of frying. #### Cooking Tips for the Best BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad - Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salad greens and ripe avocados make a big difference in the overall flavor and texture of the salad. - Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and chewy. Keep an eye on it and use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. - Balance the Dressing: If the dressing is too tangy for your taste, add a little more honey to balance the flavors. #### Serving Suggestions for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Pair this vibrant salad with a side of crusty garlic bread or a light soup like tomato basil for a complete meal. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp, chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling lemonade for a non-alcoholic option. #### Nutritional Information (per serving) - Calories: 430 - Total Fat: 25g - Carbohydrates: 12g - Protein: 38g - Fiber: 6g - Vitamin A: 65% DV - Vitamin C: 45% DV - Calcium: 20% DV - Iron: 15% DV *Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the exact ingredients used.* #### Storage and Leftovers for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad To store, place the salad (without dressing) in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from becoming soggy. When ready to eat, reheat the chicken and bacon, then combine with the salad greens and dressing. #### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad **1. Can I use other types of protein?** Yes, grilled shrimp or tofu work well as alternatives for a different flavor profile. **2. How can I make this salad vegetarian?** Replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms and the bacon with crispy tempeh. **3. Can I make the dressing in advance?** Absolutely! The balsamic dressing can be made up to a week ahead and stored in the refrigerator. **4. Is there a low-carb version of this salad?** The salad itself is naturally low-carb. For an even lower carb option, skip the honey in the dressing. #### Related Recipes for BLT Lovers - Homemade Chicken Souse – A Caribbean Delight A tangy and savory dish that pairs well with any salad. - Chicken Jerusalem Recipe – A Culinary Masterpiece Discover another creative way to enjoy tender chicken with rich flavors. #### Conclusion I hope you enjoy this delightful *BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad*! It’s perfect for meal prepping, quick lunches, or even a dinner party. Give it a try, and let us know your thoughts. Do you have a personal variation of this recipe? Share it in the comments below. Enjoy your healthy and delicious meal! **You might also love:** [Grilled Chicken and Vermicelli Noodle Salad – Fresh &a](https://optimalrecipes.com/grilled-chicken-and-vermicelli-noodle-salad-fresh-healthy/) · [Grilled Chicken Cobb Salad Recipe – Healthy & Deli](https://optimalrecipes.com/grilled-chicken-cobb-salad-recipe-healthy-delicious-meal/) · [Chicken Pecan Cranberry Salad Recipe – Delicious Healt](https://optimalrecipes.com/chicken-pecan-cranberry-salad-recipe-delicious-healthy-snack/) --- **Source**: [BLT Balsamic Chicken Avocado Salad Recipe – Healthy & Delicious](https://optimalrecipes.com/blt-balsamic-chicken-avocado-salad-recipe-healthy-delicious/) **Site**: Optimal Recipes - https://optimalrecipes.com/ **Author**: Maria Jannet **Last updated**: 2026-03-31 *If you cite this recipe, please link to: https://optimalrecipes.com/blt-balsamic-chicken-avocado-salad-recipe-healthy-delicious/*