BBQ Chicken Salad Recipe: Grilled Goodness in Every Bite
Embrace the sizzling allure of summer with a BBQ Chicken Salad that captures the essence of outdoor grilling and vibrant flavors. This recipe is a harmonious marriage of smoky barbecue-infused chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty dressing, making it a go-to choice for those seeking a hearty yet refreshing meal. Prepare to indulge in the delicious symphony of textures and tastes that the BBQ Chicken Salad brings to your plate.
Ingredients:
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, grilled, or thawed if frozen)
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 avocado, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Grill the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a bowl, mix barbecue sauce and olive oil. Brush the chicken with the barbecue mixture. Grill the chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, with nice grill marks on both sides. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
Prepare the Salad Base:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, sliced red onion, black beans, and chopped cilantro. Toss the ingredients lightly to distribute them evenly.
Slice and Assemble:
Add the sliced BBQ chicken on top of the salad mixture. Arrange the avocado slices on the side for a creamy contrast.
Whisk Together the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together barbecue sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This dressing will tie the smoky flavors together and add a tangy kick.
Drizzle and Toss:
Pour the dressing over the salad and chicken. Gently toss everything together until the salad is evenly coated with the flavorful dressing.
Serve and Enjoy:
Plate the BBQ Chicken Salad on individual dishes or a large serving platter. Garnish with extra cilantro or a drizzle of barbecue sauce if desired.
Tips:
- For an extra crunch, add croutons or tortilla strips just before serving.
- Customize the salad by including your favorite grilled vegetables or a sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Adjust the dressing ingredients to achieve your preferred balance of sweetness and acidity.
The BBQ Chicken Salad is a celebration of summertime flavors that brings the joy of outdoor grilling to your dining table. This hearty and satisfying dish offers a perfect blend of smokiness, crunch, and freshness, making it an excellent choice for a wholesome meal. Whether shared at a backyard barbecue or enjoyed as a weeknight dinner, this recipe is bound to become a favorite for those who appreciate the bold and delicious notes of barbecue-infused goodness.
Join the conversation