This BBQ Chicken Salad is inspired by the fresh and flavorful salads you’d find at Panera Bread. The smoky grilled chicken combined with tangy BBQ sauce, crunchy romaine, black beans, and corn delivers a satisfying and nutritious meal. What makes this dish unique is the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, all wrapped in a delicious BBQ flavor.
The BBQ Chicken Salad is a hearty and wholesome dish, perfect for lunch or dinner. It’s loaded with grilled chicken breast, fresh vegetables, black beans, and topped with a BBQ ranch dressing that ties all the ingredients together. This salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal.
BBQ Chicken Salad
This salad is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrients, making it an ideal choice for a balanced meal.
Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Salad tongs
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
- 1/2 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn kernels
- 1/4 red onion thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium heat. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Grill the chicken for about 4–5 minutes on each side, brushing with BBQ sauce as it cooks. Once done, remove from the grill and let it rest before slicing.
- In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, red onion, and cherry tomatoes. Toss lightly to combine.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and remaining BBQ sauce to create a BBQ ranch dressing.
- Add the grilled BBQ chicken slices to the salad. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Drizzle with the BBQ ranch dressing and toss the salad until everything is evenly coated.
- Divide the salad into bowls and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute grilled shrimp or tofu for the chicken to create a pescatarian or vegetarian option.
- For extra crunch, add tortilla strips or croutons to the salad.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own.
- For extra crunch, add tortilla strips or croutons to the salad.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own.
Nutrition and Calories (per serving):
– Calories: 450
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 22g
– Sodium: 850mg
– Sugar: 8g
Please let me know how it turned out for you! Leave a comment below and tag @cookwithexperts on Instagram and hashtag it #cookwithexperts.