BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is the perfect combination of savory, smoky, and creamy. Grilled chicken slathered in barbecue sauce provides a rich flavor, while fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes give it a refreshing crunch. The shredded cheddar cheese adds a nice sharpness, and the ranch dressing ties everything together in a creamy, tangy finish. Whether you’re in need of a light lunch or a flavorful dinner, this salad will hit all the right notes. It’s also versatile, so you can adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 cup barbecue sauce

• 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce

• 1 cup sliced cucumbers

• 1 cup halved cherry tomatoes

• ½ cup thinly sliced red onion

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup ranch dressing

Directions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

2. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

3. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, until cooked through.

4. Brush the chicken with barbecue sauce and grill for an additional minute on each side.

5. Allow the chicken to rest before slicing it into strips.

6. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cucumbers, tomatoes, red onion, and sliced chicken.

7. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and drizzle with ranch dressing.

8. Toss the salad gently to combine all the ingredients.

9. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 4 servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• For added flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce overnight before grilling.

• Add avocado slices for a creamy texture.

• Top with crispy tortilla strips for extra crunch.

• Try adding other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or black beans for a twist.

• Swap out ranch dressing for blue cheese or a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing separate to prevent the salad from getting soggy.

• Reheating: It’s best to serve the chicken fresh. However, if you have leftover grilled chicken, you can reheat it in a microwave or on the stovetop before adding it to the salad. The veggies should be kept cold for the best texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken for convenience. Just be sure to warm it up before adding it to the salad.

2. Can I make the salad ahead of time?

While the salad can be prepped ahead of time, it’s best to keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to avoid sogginess.

3. Can I substitute the ranch dressing?

Absolutely! You can use any dressing you prefer, such as blue cheese, honey mustard, or a vinaigrette.

4. Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, this salad is naturally gluten-free, as long as the barbecue sauce and ranch dressing you use are also gluten-free.

5. How can I make the salad spicier?

Add some chopped jalapeños or drizzle some hot sauce on top for an extra kick.

6. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or feta for a different flavor profile.

7. How long should I grill the chicken?

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

8. Can I make this salad without grilled chicken?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and adding other protein sources like chickpeas or black beans.

9. Can I add fruit to this salad?

For a touch of sweetness, try adding diced mango, apples, or pineapple.

10. Is this salad good for meal prep?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients in advance, but store them separately. Keep the dressing and veggies separate to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines the best of summer ingredients. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can be customized with your favorite toppings and add-ins. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or bringing it to a gathering, this salad is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the smoky, creamy goodness in every bite!