Description

Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad with Ranch is a vibrant and flavorful dish combining tender grilled chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce with fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and a creamy ranch dressing. This colorful, satisfying salad is quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

2 chicken breasts (lean and tender)
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (smoky and tangy)
1/3 cup ranch dressing (creamy and cooling)

Salad Base

4 cups mixed salad greens (fresh and crisp)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (burst of sweetness)
1 cup cucumber slices (refreshing crunch)
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (subtle bite and color)

Optional Toppings

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp, creamy addition)
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (fragrant note)

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Instructions

Prep the Chicken: Pound chicken breasts to an even thickness to ensure uniform grilling. Brush each breast generously with BBQ sauce and let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 1 hour to absorb the smoky flavors.
Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side, basting occasionally with extra BBQ sauce. Cook until chicken is juicy and slightly charred.
Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken cooks, combine mixed salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and thinly sliced red onions in a large bowl.
Assemble the Salad: Let the grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking, then slice into strips. Arrange chicken strips over the salad base. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if using, then drizzle with creamy ranch dressing.
Garnish and Serve: Finish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley for brightness. Serve immediately while the chicken is still warm.

Notes

Chicken thickness matters: Ensuring even thickness promotes uniform cooking and prevents dryness.
Don’t skip resting: Allow the chicken to rest after grilling to redistribute juices for maximum tenderness.
Use quality BBQ sauce: The flavor of the sauce greatly impacts the final taste.
Chill your veggies: Cold, crisp vegetables provide a refreshing contrast to warm chicken.
Serve dressing on the side if preparing ahead to avoid soggy greens.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Salad
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 salad
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 38g
Cholesterol: 110mg