BBQ Chicken Salad Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Salad is a hearty and flavorful meal, combining tender BBQ chicken with fresh vegetables and a homemade ranch dressing. It’s a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and refreshing.

Ingredients

Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need to create this BBQ Chicken Salad:

• Chicken Breasts (Boneless, Skinless): Provides a lean and protein-rich base for the salad.
• BBQ Sauce: Adds a sweet, smoky, and tangy flavor to the chicken.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky and slightly sweet note to the chicken.
• Salt: Balances the flavors of the chicken.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spice to the chicken.

For Ranch Dressing:

• Plain Yogurt: Provides a creamy and tangy base for the dressing.
• White Vinegar: Adds a sharp, acidic note to the dressing.
• Fresh Dill or Parsley (Minced): Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor to the dressing.
• Garlic Clove (Crushed): Adds a pungent, savory depth to the dressing.
• Onion Powder: Enhances the savory flavor of the dressing.
• Sugar: Balances the acidity and adds a hint of sweetness to the dressing.
• Salt: Balances the flavors of the dressing.
• Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle spice to the dressing.

For Salad:

• Romaine Lettuce (Chopped): Provides a crisp and refreshing base for the salad.
• Black Beans (Drained and Rinsed): Adds protein and fiber to the salad.
• Corn (Frozen or Grilled): Adds a sweet and tender element to the salad.
• Grape Tomatoes (Halved): Adds a juicy and slightly acidic component to the salad.
• English Cucumber (Chopped): Adds a crisp and refreshing texture to the salad.
• Cilantro (Finely Chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the salad.
• Red Onion (Diced): Adds a mild pungency and a hint of sweetness to the salad.
• Tortilla Strips: Adds a crunchy and savory topping to the salad.

Instructions

Cook Chicken

1. Preheat the oven. In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk to combine. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate while the oven preheats.
2. Place the marinated chicken breasts in a single layer in a baking dish. Pour any remaining sauce over the chicken. Bake uncovered until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Remove the cooked chicken from the oven, cover with foil, and let it rest. Slice the chicken into strips or cubes.

Make Ranch Dressing

1. In a small bowl, combine the plain yogurt, white vinegar, minced dill or parsley, crushed garlic, onion powder, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir with a fork until well combined. Set aside.

Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, drained and rinsed black beans, corn, halved grape tomatoes, chopped English cucumber, finely chopped cilantro, and diced red onion.
2. Pour the prepared ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine.
3. Top the salad with the sliced BBQ chicken and tortilla strips. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Main Dish: Enjoy as a complete meal.
• Lunch: Pack for a healthy and satisfying lunch.
• Dinner: Serve as a light and refreshing dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Make Ahead:

• Prepare the salad ingredients (lettuce, beans, corn, tomatoes, cucumber, cilantro, red onion) and store them separately from the dressing. Refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Prepare the ranch dressing and store it in a jar in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
• Combine the salad ingredients, dressing, chicken, and tortilla strips just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce?

• Yes, use your favorite BBQ sauce.

Can I grill the chicken instead of baking it?

• Yes, grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

• Yes, use your favorite lettuce, such as mixed greens or spinach.

Can I add other toppings?

• Yes, add other toppings such as avocado, cheese, or jalapeños.

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