Irresistible BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad Recipe to Enjoy

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by Liora

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The moment you take a bite of BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad, your taste buds will dance like they just won the lottery. Imagine juicy pieces of grilled chicken slathered in smoky barbecue sauce, mingling with crisp lettuce, colorful bell peppers, and zesty dressing. Each forkful bursts with flavors that are as vibrant as a summer picnic, making it perfect for any gathering or just a cozy night in. For more inspiration, check out this baked apples with feta recipe.

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This salad isn’t just food; it’s a celebration on a plate. I remember the first time I served it at a family barbecue. My Aunt Mabel, who usually critiques everything from my cooking to my choice of socks, took one look and said, “Well, aren’t you just the Gordon Ramsay of backyard picnics!” Fast forward to today, and this BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad has become our go-to dish for every occasion—from lazy Sundays to lively summer bashes. So grab your ingredients and get ready to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delicious BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for any skill level.
  • The flavor explosion from the barbecue sauce combined with fresh veggies is nothing short of amazing.
  • Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching dish that everyone will want to try.
  • You can serve it as a main course or a side, making it versatile enough for all occasions.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts work well; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
  • Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for maximum flavor.
  • Romaine Lettuce: Crisp and refreshing; chop into bite-sized pieces for easy eating.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little gems add color and juiciness to your salad.
  • Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for visual appeal and crunch.
  • Corn Kernels: Fresh or canned corn adds sweetness; feel free to use frozen if that’s what you have.
  • Red Onion: Thinly sliced for a zesty kick that complements the other ingredients.
  • Avocado: Creamy avocado makes everything better; choose ripe ones that yield slightly when pressed.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds an aromatic touch that ties all the flavors together.

For the Dressing:

  • Olive Oil: A drizzle will enhance the flavors while providing healthy fats.
  • Lime Juice: Freshly squeezed lime juice adds brightness and tanginess to balance the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Grill the Chicken

Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breasts with salt and pepper before placing them on the grill. Cook for about six minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked through, remove them from heat and let them rest before slicing.

Step 2: Chop Your Veggies

While your chicken rests, grab a large cutting board and start chopping! Dice your romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice bell peppers into strips or cubes—whatever floats your boat! Don’t forget to finely chop that red onion if you want some extra zing!

Step 3: Prepare the Dressing

In a small bowl (or mason jar if you’re feeling fancy), mix together olive oil and freshly squeezed lime juice. Whisk or shake until well combined—you want it emulsified like a good mayonnaise but without any eggs involved.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine all those wonderful veggies you’ve chopped up with corn kernels and cilantro. Slice your rested chicken breasts into strips or cubes and toss them right in there too!

Step 5: Add Dressing & Toss

Drizzle your delightful dressing over the salad mixture. Using tongs (or just your hands if you’re feeling adventurous), gently toss everything together until it’s evenly coated in that zesty goodness.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Transfer generous portions onto plates or bowls. Top each serving with diced avocado for creaminess—because who doesn’t love avocados? If desired, sprinkle some extra cilantro on top for garnish before serving.

Now sit back and enjoy this crowd-pleasing BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad! It’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection—trust me! Mediterranean chicken dinner.

You Must Know

  • This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion!
  • Packed with fresh ingredients, it comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Customize it to your taste, and watch everyone come back for seconds.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by grilling the chicken to get those smoky flavors. While the chicken sizzles, chop veggies and prepare your dressing. Combine everything just before serving for that fresh crunch!

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu. Toss in your favorite nuts for added crunch or experiment with different dressings like ranch or balsamic vinaigrette.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the chicken separately and toss it back into the salad right before serving.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfect BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad, let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
  • Use a variety of colorful veggies for eye appeal and texture.
  • Don’t skip on seasoning; it’s what brings all those flavors together!

Sometimes I whip up this salad when friends come over, and their delighted faces remind me why I love cooking so much. It’s always a hit at parties!

FAQs

What is BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad?

BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and BBQ sauce. This salad typically includes ingredients like romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, black beans, and crispy tortilla strips. guilt-free crispy chicken Topped with a tangy dressing and smoky BBQ flavors, it’s perfect for summer gatherings or a light dinner option. The combination of textures and tastes makes it satisfying while still being healthy.

How do I prepare the chicken for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad?

To prepare the chicken for your BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad, start by marinating boneless chicken breasts in your favorite BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes. After marinating, grill the chicken over medium heat until cooked through and juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before chopping it into bite-sized pieces. This method ensures that each piece is juicy and packed with flavor, enhancing your salad.

Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad?

Absolutely! One of the best features of BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is its versatility. Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Avocado, peppers, or red onions can elevate the flavor profile. Additionally, consider using different proteins such as grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian version. Personalizing your salad makes it even more enjoyable.

What dressing goes well with BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad?

A creamy ranch dressing or a zesty vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad. You can also create a simple dressing using olive oil, lime juice, and a dash of honey to complement the smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken. creamy lemon chicken If you prefer a lighter option, try mixing yogurt with your favorite herbs and spices for added freshness without overwhelming the dish.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad

In summary, BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is an easy-to-make dish that combines grilled chicken and fresh vegetables with delicious BBQ flavors. It’s highly customizable, allowing each person to adapt it to their taste preferences. flavorful rice recipes Whether you’re hosting a gathering or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this salad offers both nutrition and satisfaction in every bite. Enjoy this delightful recipe as part of your healthy eating journey!

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BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad


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  • Author: Liora
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a vibrant and satisfying dish that combines tender grilled chicken coated in smoky barbecue sauce with an array of fresh vegetables. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it the perfect addition to summer gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this salad is sure to impress family and friends alike!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
  • 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (mix of red, yellow, green)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lime juice

Instructions

  1. Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for about 6 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest before slicing.
  2. While the chicken rests, chop the romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, corn, and red onion.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice for the dressing.
  4. In a large bowl, combine all chopped vegetables and sliced chicken. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to combine.
  5. Serve topped with diced avocado and additional cilantro as desired.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad bowl (approx. 400g)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 32g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

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