BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

A vibrant and satisfying meal, BBQ chicken chopped salad combines the smoky, sweet flavors of grilled chicken with crisp, fresh vegetables. Topped with creamy ranch dressing and shredded cheddar, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making it ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The combination of BBQ sauce, black beans, corn, and tangy ranch dressing elevates the salad to something special.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce.
3. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, corn kernels, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Place the sliced BBQ chicken on top of the salad, then drizzle with ranch dressing.
6. Toss everything together until well combined. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Grilled Vegetables: For extra flavor, consider adding grilled peppers, zucchini, or corn on the cob to the salad.
• Vegan Option: Skip the chicken and cheese, and use a plant-based protein like grilled tempeh or chickpeas for a vegan version.
• Spicy Kick: Add a sliced jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the salad for some heat.
• Different Dressing: If you’re not a fan of ranch, try a honey mustard dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or avocado dressing for a different flavor profile.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats, making the salad even more satisfying.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. It’s best to store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
• Reheating: If you have leftover grilled chicken, you can reheat it gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this salad?
   Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just shred the chicken and toss it with BBQ sauce before adding it to the salad.
2. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
   While the salad itself can be prepped ahead (except for the dressing), it’s best to add the dressing and chicken just before serving to keep it fresh.
3. What other cheese can I use in this salad?
   You can swap the cheddar for other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a crumbled feta for a different flavor.
4. Can I use frozen corn in this salad?
   Yes, you can use frozen corn. Just thaw and drain it before adding it to the salad.
5. How can I make the salad spicier?
   Add some diced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or even spicy BBQ sauce to the chicken during grilling for an extra kick.
6. Can I make the salad without BBQ sauce?
   Yes, if you prefer a different flavor, you can use grilled chicken with a marinade or seasoning of your choice, or even use grilled shrimp for a different protein.
7. Can I serve this salad as a main dish?
   Absolutely! This salad is hearty enough to be a main dish, especially with the addition of chicken, beans, and cheese.
8. Can I use a different dressing?
   Yes, any creamy dressing like blue cheese, Caesar, or even a tangy vinaigrette would work well with this salad.
9. Is there a way to make this salad more filling?
   To make the salad even more filling, add quinoa, brown rice, or tortilla chips for a crunchy texture.
10. How do I keep the chicken moist when grilling?
    To keep your chicken juicy, be sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F, and let the chicken rest before slicing it to allow the juices to redistribute.

Conclusion

BBQ chicken chopped salad is a fresh, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing creates a salad that’s full of flavor and texture. It’s an easy-to-make, versatile dish that can be customized to your tastes, and it’s sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Whether served as a light dinner or a hearty side, this salad is a winner every time.

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