Embrace the sweet and smoky flavors of summer with this BBQ Chicken Salad, a refreshing dish that combines the best of both worlds: the hearty, comforting taste of barbecue and the crisp, fresh elements of a salad. It's the perfect meal for those warm days when you crave something filling yet light, or for any time you want to bring a little sunshine to your table. Ideal for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or as a standout side at your next cookout, this salad is as versatile as it is delicious. With minimal kitchen equipment and easy-to-find ingredients, you'll have this crowd-pleaser ready in no time.
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Equipment Required
- Grill or skillet for the chicken (optional, if not using pre-cooked chicken)
- Knife and cutting board
- Large mixing bowl
Ingredients Required
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (grilled BBQ chicken works great!)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (romaine, baby spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (can use fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend works well)
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Tortilla strips or croutons for crunch
- Ranch dressing or your favorite salad dressing
Directions (How-to Make It)
- Prepare the BBQ Chicken: If not using pre-cooked chicken, grill or cook your chicken in a skillet until fully cooked, then shred or chop it. Toss the chicken in a bowl with the BBQ sauce until evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado, and red onion. Gently toss to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Add the Chicken: Add the BBQ chicken to the salad and toss lightly to combine. The BBQ sauce from the chicken will start to mix with the rest of the salad, adding its unique flavor.
- Serve: Divide the salad among plates or bowls. Sprinkle shredded cheese and cilantro over each serving. Add a crunch with tortilla strips or croutons. Drizzle a little more BBQ sauce and your choice of salad dressing over the top.
- Enjoy: Dig in and enjoy the mix of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors that make this BBQ Chicken Salad a delightful meal.
BBQ Chicken Salad is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of a barbecue in a lighter, more nutritious form. It's easy to make, especially if you have leftover chicken, and the combination of ingredients can be adjusted to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Whether you're serving it up as a main dish or a side salad, it's sure to be a hit with its irresistible blend of flavors and textures. Enjoy the taste of summer any time of the year with this delicious salad!
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