Smoky BBQ Chicken Salad is a delightful dish that brings together juicy chicken, sweet corn, and fresh vegetables, drizzled with creamy homemade ranch. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad is not only easy to make but also packed with flavor. Its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients make it an instant family favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cook time, this BBQ Chicken Salad can be on your table in just 30 minutes.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of smoky BBQ chicken and homemade ranch dressing provides a delicious taste explosion.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Featuring fresh veggies like corn, tomatoes, and avocado, this salad is as nutritious as it is tasty.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
Great for Meal Prep: This salad holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for lunch throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To create your BBQ Chicken Salad efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential. These will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

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Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron grill pan
Large bowl
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron grill pan: Ideal for achieving that perfect char on the chicken and corn while retaining heat effectively.
Large bowl: Necessary for mixing ingredients and tossing your salad without making a mess.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for all veggies, enhancing presentation and ease of preparation.

Ingredients

Smoky BBQ chicken, corn, tomatoes, black beans, avocado + cheese drizzled with homemade Ranch. An instant family favorite!

Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch chunks)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
– 2 teaspoons BBQ seasoning
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 ears corn (husks and silk removed)
– 1 head romaine (shredded)
– 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 1 cup canned black beans (rinsed and drained)
– 1 avocado (halved, seeded, peeled and diced)
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– Homemade ranch dressing

How to Make BBQ Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine chicken with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil, BBQ seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken pieces are evenly coated.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat.
Working in batches, add chicken to the grill pan in a single layer.
Cook until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165 degrees F), about 6–8 minutes.
Set aside and stir in BBQ sauce until well combined.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

Add corn to the grill pan after removing cooked chicken.
Cook while turning occasionally until charred and tender (about 5–10 minutes).
Let cool before cutting kernels off the cobs.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large bowl, place romaine lettuce at the bottom. Top with cooked chicken, grilled corn, cherry tomatoes, black beans, diced avocado, red onion, and cheese.
Pour homemade ranch dressing over everything and gently toss to combine.

Step 5: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Salad right after assembling for maximum freshness!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Salad

Serving BBQ Chicken Salad is a great way to impress your family and friends. This vibrant dish not only looks appealing but also packs a punch in flavor, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight meal.

Family Style

Place the salad in a large bowl and allow everyone to serve themselves. This encourages sharing and makes for a relaxed dining experience.

Individual Bowls

For a more elegant presentation, serve the salad in individual bowls. This allows each guest to enjoy their own portion without the need for serving utensils.

Wraps

Use lettuce leaves or tortillas to create wraps filled with BBQ Chicken Salad. This is a fun way to serve the dish and great for on-the-go meals.

Side Dishes

Pair the salad with complementary side dishes like cornbread or grilled vegetables. These sides enhance the BBQ flavors and add variety to your meal.

Picnic Style

Pack the BBQ Chicken Salad into portable containers for a picnic. It’s easy to transport and makes for a refreshing outdoor lunch option.

Toppings Bar

Set up a toppings bar with additional ingredients like jalapeños, crispy bacon bits, or extra cheese. This allows guests to customize their salads according to their preferences.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Salad

To create the ultimate BBQ Chicken Salad, consider these helpful tips that ensure every bite is delicious and satisfying.

Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality chicken make a significant difference in flavor.
Let It Rest: Allow the cooked chicken to rest before adding it to the salad; this keeps it juicy.
Experiment with Dressings: While homemade ranch is fantastic, try different dressings like cilantro lime or blue cheese for variety.
Add Crunch: Incorporate nuts or seeds like sunflower seeds for an extra crunch that complements the soft textures of the salad.
Season Well: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper; they enhance all flavors within your salad.
Serve Chilled: If preparing ahead of time, refrigerate before serving to keep everything cool and crisp.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Salad

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement its flavors well.

Cornbread: A warm, slightly sweet bread that pairs wonderfully with savory salads.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies charred on the grill add smoky flavors that match perfectly with BBQ.
Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast while balancing out the richness of the salad.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your meal.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy and comforting, this classic dish makes for an excellent accompaniment.
Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds sweetness and freshness, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner.
Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans complement BBQ flavors while providing hearty satisfaction.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up any leftover dressing or sauce from the salad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing BBQ Chicken Salad, it’s easy to make some common errors that can affect the final dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken well before cooking.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F and remove it from heat immediately.
Neglecting fresh ingredients: Using old or wilted vegetables can ruin the freshness of your salad. Always use fresh produce for the best taste and texture.
Using store-bought dressing only: While convenient, homemade ranch dressing elevates the flavors in your BBQ Chicken Salad. Try making your own for a more delicious result.
Not balancing flavors: Failing to balance sweet and savory elements can make the salad one-dimensional. Incorporate ingredients like avocado or black beans to enhance flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Salad

Freezing is not recommended as it may alter the texture of the salad ingredients.
If necessary, freeze only the chicken portion in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Salad

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and heat in intervals of 30 seconds until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the chicken while stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about BBQ Chicken Salad:

What is BBQ Chicken Salad?

BBQ Chicken Salad is a delicious mix of smoky grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing that creates a satisfying meal.

Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Salad?

Absolutely! You can add or substitute ingredients like different cheeses, nuts, or even fruits like mango or pineapple for added sweetness.

How do I make homemade ranch dressing?

To make homemade ranch dressing, combine buttermilk, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs (like dill), salt, and pepper until smooth.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This BBQ Chicken Salad is perfect for meal prep as you can store components separately to keep them fresh longer.

Can I use leftover grilled chicken?

Yes! Using leftover grilled chicken makes this recipe even quicker and adds great flavor without extra cooking time.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Salad is an outstanding choice for any meal, combining flavors that are both comforting and refreshing. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or taking it to a potluck, it’s sure to impress. Give this delightful recipe a try!

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BBQ Chicken Salad

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Author: Julia
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

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Description

BBQ Chicken Salad is the perfect summer dish that combines smoky grilled chicken, fresh produce, and a creamy homemade ranch dressing. This vibrant salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. With juicy chicken, sweet corn, and colorful veggies like tomatoes and avocado, this salad is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s customizable to suit your taste preferences, ensuring that everyone at the table will love it!

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
2 ears corn
1 head romaine lettuce
1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes
1 cup canned black beans
1 avocado
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Homemade ranch dressing

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Instructions

In a bowl, toss the chicken with oil, BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Cook in a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat for about 6–8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Stir in BBQ sauce.
Grill corn until charred and tender, then cut kernels off the cobs.
In a large bowl, layer the romaine lettuce and top with chicken, corn, tomatoes, black beans, avocado, red onion, and cheese. Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss to combine.
Serve immediately for maximum freshness.

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