Name: BBQ Chicken Salad
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 4 cups cool water; 1.5 tablespoons fine sea salt; 0.5 cup BBQ sauce; 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce (rinsed and dried); 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved); 1 medium avocado (sliced); 1 cup sweet corn kernels (drained); 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained); 0.25 cup red onion (diced); 0.5 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded); 1 serving Tortilla chips (for serving); 0.25 cup homemade ranch dressing; 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce

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There’s something truly special about a BBQ Chicken Salad. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that evoke summer gatherings and warm evenings. I remember the first time I made this dish for my family. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over our backyard, and the smell of grilled chicken wafted through the air. It was the perfect evening to whip up a refreshing salad that combines the smoky BBQ flavor of grilled chicken with crisp vegetables. Every bite was a delightful explosion of freshness and taste, leaving us all satisfied and asking for seconds.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
420 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
18 g

Tools Used:
Grater, Mixing Bowl, Chef’s Knife, Cutting Board, Whisk

Why Try This BBQ Chicken Salad

1. Wholesome Ingredients

What makes this BBQ Chicken Salad truly stand out is its wholesome ingredients. Each element is carefully chosen to enhance not only flavor but also nutrition. The foundation of this dish is the grilled chicken, marinated to perfection, which brings a rich, savory taste that perfectly complements the fresh veggies.

2. A Balance of Flavors

The marriage of sweet BBQ sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates a perfect harmony. When you drizzle that dressing over the salad, it brings everything together in a way that makes each bite feel indulgent yet fresh. The contrast between the tangy dressing and the smokiness of the chicken is something you won’t want to miss!

3. Versatile Serving Options

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can serve it as a main dish or a hearty side, making it perfect for casual family dinners or summer barbecues. The leftovers (if there are any!) are just as delicious the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.

4. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a picnic in the park or a potluck with friends, the BBQ Chicken Salad fits right in. It’s the kind of dish that everyone loves, and it looks gorgeous on the table, making it a centerpiece at any gathering.

5. Family-Friendly

Kids love this dish too! With its vibrant colors and tasty components, it’s a great way to sneak in veggies and protein without any fuss. Plus, you can let them help with the assembly, making it a fun family activity.

What You’ll Need for BBQ Chicken Salad

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a standout BBQ Chicken Salad. Each component contributes to the overall flavor and texture, creating a satisfying dish that can be served any time of the year. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty dressing creates a delightful balance that everyone will love.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large breasts): This is the star protein of the salad, providing a satisfying base that absorbs the BBQ flavor beautifully.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for grilling the chicken, it helps create a nice crust while keeping the meat juicy.
1 teaspoon paprika: A dash of paprika adds a subtle smokiness and color to the chicken.
4 cups cool water: Used for brining, this helps keep the chicken moist.
1 1/2 tablespoons fine sea salt: This is crucial for the brining process, enhancing the chicken’s flavor.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce: The key ingredient that brings that distinctive BBQ flavor to the chicken.
6 cups chopped romaine lettuce (rinsed and dried): Provides a crisp and fresh base for the salad.
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Adds a sweet burst of flavor and color.
1 medium avocado (sliced): Creamy and rich, it complements the other ingredients perfectly.
1 cup sweet corn kernels (drained): Brings natural sweetness and crunch.
1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained): Adds protein and fiber, making the salad more filling.
1/4 cup red onion (diced): Offers a zesty punch and additional texture.
1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese (shredded): A creamy addition that adds richness.
Tortilla chips (for serving): Crunchy chips on the side for added texture.
1/4 cup homemade ranch dressing: A creamy dressing that ties all the flavors together.
2 tablespoons BBQ sauce: For drizzling over the assembled salad for extra flavor.

Recipe Directions for BBQ Chicken Salad

Creating the BBQ Chicken Salad is a straightforward process, and it’s a great way to showcase your grilling skills! The steps are simple, yet they lead to a wonderfully flavorful dish that can impress anyone. Let’s dive into the process.

Start by brining the chicken breasts. This process helps the chicken absorb moisture, ensuring they don’t dry out on the grill. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 4 cups of cool water with 1 1/2 tablespoons fine sea salt until the salt is completely dissolved. Add the chicken breasts to the water, cover, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for infusing flavor into the chicken, making it juicy and delicious.
While the chicken is brining, prepare your grill. Heat it to medium heat and brush the grates with a little olive oil. This will help prevent the chicken from sticking and create those beautiful grill marks.
Once the chicken has finished brining, remove it from the water and pat it dry with a paper towel. Coat both sides with olive oil and season generously with paprika. This adds flavor and enhances the chicken’s appearance.
Place the seasoned chicken on the hot grill. Baste the top side with BBQ sauce and let it cook undisturbed for about 5 to 6 minutes. This allows the chicken to develop a nice char.
After 5 to 6 minutes, flip the chicken over and move it to a cooler section of the grill. Baste the other side with BBQ sauce. Cover the grill and continue cooking until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. This is crucial for ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and brush it with a final coat of BBQ sauce. Let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes to lock in the juices before slicing it.
In a large serving bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced avocado, corn, black beans, red onion, and shredded cheese. Toss everything together gently to combine the flavors.
Once the vegetables are mixed, layer in the sliced BBQ chicken. This adds a beautiful presentation, as the chicken pieces rest on top of the colorful salad.
In a small bowl, whisk together ranch dressing and a bit more BBQ sauce. Drizzle this dressing over your salad and toss to coat. Alternatively, you can serve the dressing on the side to let everyone customize their servings. Finally, serve your BBQ Chicken Salad with tortilla chips on the side for some crunch!

Things Worth Knowing

Brining Chicken: Brining chicken helps it retain moisture. This means juicier, more flavorful meat.
Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium heat. Too hot can dry out the chicken, while too cool won’t give you those lovely grill marks.
Resting Time: Letting the chicken rest after grilling is crucial. It allows the juices to redistribute, leading to a more tender bite.
Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh produce, especially for the salad, elevates the dish. Look for crisp lettuce and ripe tomatoes for the best flavor.

Helpful Notes about BBQ Chicken Salad

Here are some valuable tips that will help you achieve the best version of your BBQ Chicken Salad. These insights will improve your technique and flavor profile, making your dish even more enjoyable!

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will meld nicely, making it a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing: It’s best to avoid freezing the salad once dressed. However, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Pairing: This salad pairs wonderfully with cornbread or grilled vegetables. The sweetness of cornbread complements the flavors beautifully.
Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like cucumber or bell peppers to the salad for added crunch and flavor.
Meal Prep: Consider prepping the veggies and chicken ahead of time for quick assembly during busy weeknights.

What to Serve With BBQ Chicken Salad

When it comes to serving your BBQ Chicken Salad, you have plenty of delicious options that make it a complete meal and elevate your dining experience.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer classic, grilled corn pairs perfectly with the flavors of the salad.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a satisfying crunch that complements the salad.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits is a great way to cleanse your palate.
Potato Salad: For a classic side dish, a creamy potato salad adds a nice contrast to the crispness of the main salad.
Quinoa or Rice: A side of quinoa or rice can bulk up your meal if you’re serving this for dinner.
Chilled Beverages: Pair your meal with lemonade, iced tea, or a light beer to complement the BBQ flavors.

FAQ

Yes, you can prepare the components of the BBQ Chicken Salad ahead of time. Just store the grilled chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing separately in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine the ingredients and toss with the dressing. This is a great strategy for meal prep or for serving at parties.

The beauty of BBQ Chicken Salad is its versatility! You can add ingredients like sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, or even some jalapeños for a kick. If you want more protein, chickpeas or nuts are great options too. Feel free to personalize it to fit your taste preferences!

Absolutely! This BBQ Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the chicken in bulk and store it in the fridge, along with the chopped vegetables. Just keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat to prevent the salad from getting soggy. It’s a quick and healthy option for lunches throughout the week.

To store leftovers of your BBQ Chicken Salad, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best consumed within three days for optimal freshness. If you have leftover chicken, you can also store it separately and use it in other meals like wraps or sandwiches.

Conclusion

The BBQ Chicken Salad is a delightful blend of flavors, textures, and nutrients that make it a fantastic choice for any meal. The grilled chicken paired with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing creates a dish that is not only satisfying but also refreshing. I encourage you to try making it for your next gathering or as a quick weeknight dinner. You won’t regret it!