Insanely Good BBQ Chicken Salad (Ready in 30 Minutes!)
This BBQ Chicken Salad is the ultimate summer weeknight dinner. It is smoky, crunchy, and packed with high-protein grilled chicken and fresh corn.
Too hot to turn on the oven? This BBQ Chicken Salad is for you.
It is smoky, crunchy, and totally addictive. You get fresh summer flavors in every single bite. This is the ultimate weeknight dinner for busy people.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a total winner for your health. It is packed with high-protein chicken to keep you full. You get tons of fiber from the black beans.
It is perfect for those busy summer weeknights. You can have a restaurant-quality meal in 30 minutes. Your family will beg for seconds every time.
How It Comes Together
Making this salad is incredibly simple and fast. You just grill, chop, and toss everything together. Even if you are a beginner, you can do this.
The secret is the BBQ-ranch dressing mix. It adds a creamy, smoky punch to the greens. You will love how easy the cleanup is.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses fresh seasonal produce and simple pantry staples. Here is what you need to grab.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (approx 1 lb)
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 1 head Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup sweet corn kernels
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup tortilla strips
Step-by-Step Directions
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat until it reaches 165°F.
- Brush with 1/4 cup BBQ sauce in the final minutes.
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before dicing.
- Combine lettuce, beans, corn, tomatoes, and onion in a bowl.
- Whisk ranch dressing and remaining BBQ sauce together.
- Incorporate chicken, cheese, cilantro, and avocado into the bowl.
- Apply dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Top with tortilla strips and serve immediately.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Serve this salad fresh while the chicken is still warm. It creates a perfect temperature contrast with the cold lettuce. Pair it with a cold glass of lemonade.
This is great for a casual backyard lunch. You can also serve it with crusty bread. It is a complete, satisfying meal on its own.
How to Store Leftovers
Store the components separately to keep them fresh. Keep the dressing in a small airtight jar. The chicken stays juicy for up to three days.
Do not dress the salad until you eat. This prevents the lettuce from getting soggy. It is a meal prep dream for your work week.
Tips for Best Results
- Let the chicken rest so the juices stay inside.
- Use fresh corn for the best crunch and sweetness.
- Dice the red onion very small for better flavor.
- Add the avocado right before serving to prevent browning.
- Use a high-quality BBQ sauce for the best glaze.
- Rinse the black beans well to keep the salad bright.
Ways to Switch It Up
- Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp for a twist.
- Use kale instead of Romaine for extra nutrients.
- Add pickled jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Try pepper jack cheese for more bold flavor.
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken for a faster meal. Just toss the shredded chicken in BBQ sauce first.
Is this salad gluten-free?
Most ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Just check your BBQ sauce and tortilla strips labels carefully.
You are going to love this fresh, smoky salad! Tag me when you make it.
— Jasmine
Ingredients
Method
- Grill chicken over medium-high heat until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, brushing with 1/4 cup BBQ sauce in the final minutes.
- Allow chicken to rest for 5 minutes before dicing into 1/2-inch cubes.
- Combine lettuce, black beans, corn, tomatoes, and red onion in a large vessel.
- Whisk together ranch dressing and remaining BBQ sauce to create the dressing base.
- Incorporate chicken, cheese, cilantro, and avocado into the vegetable mixture.
- Apply dressing and toss until components are evenly coated.
- Top with tortilla strips and serve immediately.
