BBQ Chicken Salad

There’s something so invigorating about a summer day spent outdoors, isn’t there? The sun shining, a gentle breeze rustling the leaves, and the tantalizing aroma of grilled food wafting through the air. That’s exactly the vibe I love to create when I whip up my favorite dish: BBQ Chicken Salad. This recipe has become a staple in my home, perfect for those warm evenings when you want to enjoy something fresh, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Every bite of this salad tells a story of summer adventures, backyard barbecues, and joyful gatherings with friends and family.

As I carefully layer the vibrant greens, juicy tomatoes, and perfectly grilled chicken, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. It reminds me of the countless afternoons spent with loved ones, sharing laughter and delicious food. The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce drizzled over everything is the finishing touch that brings it all together. What I adore most about this dish is its versatility; it can be a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even a side dish at your next gathering. No matter how you enjoy it, one thing is for sure: this BBQ Chicken Salad is bound to impress!

BBQ Chicken Salad Ingredients

At the heart of this BBQ Chicken Salad are a few key ingredients that work wonderfully together. Each plays an essential role in creating a balanced dish that’s bursting with flavor. The grilled chicken is undoubtedly the star, but don’t underestimate the crunchy texture of the romaine lettuce or the vibrant colors of the tomatoes and corn. Together, they create not only a visually appealing dish but one packed with nutrients and deliciousness.

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (pounded 1/2 inch thick): The chicken is the centerpiece of this salad. Grilling it adds a wonderful smoky flavor and keeps it juicy.
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil: This helps to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill and adds a touch of richness.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its natural flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper: A simple seasoning that adds depth to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons homemade barbecue sauce (or prepared store-bought sauce): This adds a sweet and tangy flavor that ties the salad together.
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce: The crisp base of the salad, providing a fresh crunch with every bite.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (or grape tomatoes, halved): These juicy pop-in-your-mouth tomatoes add a burst of flavor and color.
• 1 cup canned low-sodium black beans (rinsed and drained): These add protein and a hearty texture to the salad.
• ½ cup canned Mexicorn (drained): A delightful mix of corn and peppers that brings sweetness and a hint of spice.
• ¼ cup diced red onion: A little sharpness that balances the sweetness of the corn and barbecue sauce.
• Crushed tortilla chips (or strips for serving): These add crunch and are perfect for spooning up the salad.
• Chopped fresh cilantro (for serving): A fresh herb that brightens the entire dish.
• ⅓ cup prepared light ranch dressing: This creamy dressing complements the barbecue sauce perfectly, adding richness to the salad.
• 1 tablespoon homemade barbecue sauce (or prepared store-bought sauce): A little extra for brushing on grilled chicken or just drizzling on top before serving.

Cooking Method for BBQ Chicken Salad

Cooking this BBQ Chicken Salad is a breeze, making it a perfect option for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering. The combination of grilling and assembling is quick and hands-on, allowing you to be involved every step of the way. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious salad in no time!

1. Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken will get nice grill marks and cook evenly.
2. Once the grill is hot, take your chicken breasts and brush both sides with olive oil. This not only helps to prevent sticking but also adds flavor.
3. Sprinkle the seasoned chicken with kosher salt and black pepper. Make sure to be generous so each bite packs a punch!
4. Now, place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 4 minutes without moving it. This will give you those beautiful grill marks.
5. After 4 minutes, flip the chicken over. Brush the grilled side with a tablespoon of barbecue sauce, and then grill for another 3 to 4 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. You’ll know it’s ready when the juices run clear, and it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and brush the other side with the remaining barbecue sauce. Cover the chicken and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it lets the juices redistribute.
7. After resting, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easy to mix into the salad and enjoyable to eat.
8. Next, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or measuring cup, stir together the ranch dressing with a bit of barbecue sauce. Adjust the ratio to your taste. This creamy tangy dressing will complement the salad beautifully.
9. In a large serving bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, Mexicorn, red onion, and the chopped chicken. Drizzle the salad with the dressing, then gently toss to ensure everything is coated.
10. Finally, serve immediately, topped with crushed tortilla chips and cilantro. Enjoy your homemade BBQ Chicken Salad!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re feeling adventurous, here are some fun ways to customize your BBQ Chicken Salad. The beauty of this dish is its versatility, allowing you to create variations that suit your taste preferences.

• Make It Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to the salad for a spicy kick.
• Change the Protein: Swap out chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a different flavor profile. Both options are delicious!
• Add Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or avocado for an extra crunch and freshness.
• Experiment with Dressings: Try different dressings like a vinaigrette or a yogurt sauce to give the salad a unique twist.
• Meal Prep: To save time, prep your ingredients ahead of time. Keep the dressing separate until serving to prevent sogginess.
• Serve as a Wrap: Use large lettuce leaves to make wraps filled with the salad mixture for a fun, low-carb alternative.

What to Pair With BBQ Chicken Salad

When it comes to enjoying your BBQ Chicken Salad, there are plenty of delightful side dishes and occasions that pair beautifully with it. Here are some excellent suggestions:

• Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic summer side that complements the smoky flavors of the salad perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread makes for a comforting addition, perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing.
• Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits is a great contrast to the savory salad, offering a sweet ending to your meal.
• Picnic or BBQ Gatherings: This salad is perfect for outdoor gatherings. Its bright colors and flavors make it a hit at potlucks and barbecues.
• Light Lunch or Dinner: Enjoy this salad as a light lunch option during hot summer days or as a quick dinner when you want something refreshing.
• Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

FAQ

Conclusion

The BBQ Chicken Salad truly embodies summer with its vibrant colors and fresh flavors. It serves not just as a meal but as a reminder of sunny days spent outdoors. I encourage you to try making this easy dish for your next gathering or as a delightful weeknight dinner. You won’t regret it! Enjoy the blend of flavors and the joy it brings to your table.

BBQ Chicken Salad

The ultimate comfort food for summer, BBQ Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and zesty barbecue sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a picnic, this salad is a crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Salads

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Chef's Knife

Ingredients

  

• 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts pounded 1/2 inch thick
• 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons homemade barbecue sauce or prepared store-bought sauce
• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup canned low-sodium black beans rinsed and drained
• ½ cup canned Mexicorn drained
• ¼ cup diced red onion
• to taste Crushed tortilla chips or strips for serving
• to taste Chopped fresh cilantro for serving
• ⅓ cup prepared light ranch dressing I found a Greek yogurt–based dressing in the refrigerated section of the grocery store that I love
• 1 tablespoon homemade barbecue sauce or prepared store-bought sauce

Instructions

 

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper.
• Grill on one side for about 4 minutes, then flip, brush with barbecue sauce, and grill the other side for 3 to 4 minutes until cooked through.
• Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
• In a small bowl, stir together ranch dressing and barbecue sauce to make the dressing.
• In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, black beans, Mexicorn, red onion, and chopped chicken.
• Drizzle with dressing and toss to coat, then serve immediately topped with crushed tortilla chips and cilantro.

Notes

• Storage: Refrigerate leftover salad in an airtight storage container for up to 3 days.

Keyword BBQ chicken salad recipe, Easy Summer Salad, grilled chicken salad, healthy BBQ salad

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Meet Maya Carlson

I believe that every dish tells a story through its colors and textures. I apply my artistic eye to everything we make. I love being hands-on with every recipe, helping to plate a savory stew just as beautifully as a dessert. I enjoy the challenge of making every single genre of food look as good as it tastes. If we are cooking, I am right there in the mix, styling and seasoning until it’s perfect.