Easy BBQ Chicken Chop Salad There is something about a BBQ Chicken Chop Salad that just warms ya up when you have a long day ahead of ya! Imagine slices of juicy, smoky BBQ chicken, crunchy lettuce, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and a tangy dressing that brings it all together. It’s the kind of meal that is filling, then leaves you feeling refreshed. Whether you’re trying to show off for the relatives or just make yourself a good lunch, this recipe will take you there.
What makes this salad special? Flavors and textures are in perfect harmony. You have the smokiness of the BBQ chicken, the crunch of the fresh veggies, and the creamy texture of the avocado all co-mingling in one bowl. And it’s super flexible — you can make it as unadulterated or as ornate as you want. Throw in some crumbled bacon, use ranch dressing instead of cilantro-lime, or sprinkle with your favorite cheese. The potential is limitless and that is what’s so thrilling.
Another reason to love this one? It’s a crowd-pleaser. On the one hand, you’ll need at a backyard BBQ if you happen to hosting one, and on the other hand, it’s the food equivalent of a one pot weeknight dinner. It’s rich enough to appease the meat enthusiasts at the table, but it’s loaded with veggies for balance. And then there’s how easy it is to prepare. You don’t have to be a great cook to prepare this dish.
Here’s the kicker though: this BBQ Chicken Chop Salad is a meal prep miracle. You can make the chicken in advance, cut the vegetables in advance, and a solo plate as you’re ready to eat. It’s the best thing after a hectic day when you are craving for something scrumptious without getting in the kitchen for hours.
So, what are you waiting for? Put on your apron, fire up the grill (or your skillet) and let’s get cooking. This is your new favorite recipe. Believe me, once you’ve tried it, you will never go back.
Todd Wilbur’s Take: Is This Recipe Really “KFC”?
This BBQ Chicken Chop Salad is FLAVOR and ease and it’s 2nd to none. It is loaded with smoky bbq chicken, fresh cut veggies and a tangy dressing that brings everything together. What sets it apart? It can be customized and it literally takes minutes to make and is great for any situation.
If there’s one thing to know about this recipe, it’s that it’s ridiculously simple. Whether you’re cooking for one or 100, it’s a no-fuss meal that packs in great flavor. It’s also a fantastic use for leftover chicken, so it’s economical and useful to boot.
Another standout feature? The balance of flavors. Smoky, barbecued chicken is a nice contrast to the cool, crisp lettuce, sweet corn and luscious avocado. And the dressing? It’s the cherry on top, pulling all the elements together in a single harmonious mouthful.
Oh, and this salad is very adaptable too. You can make it virtuous or indulgent. Throw in some extra veggies, a different type of dressing, some bacon crumbles for more flavor, or anything else that catches your eye. It’s the kind of recipe that adjusts to your mood, which arguably makes it more indispensable than gold.
Family Favorite: The Tradition of This Easy BBQ Chicken Chop Salad
This BBQ Chicken Chop Salad holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. It all began one summer evening when I needed to find a fast dinner solution. I had some leftover barbeque chicken, some vegetables in the fridge and a hankerin’ for something fresh and stick-to-your-ribs. I mixed it all, drizzled on some dressing and took a bite.
From that day forward, it was a household favorite. My husband, a professed “meat and potatoes” guy, was immediately hooked. He loved the smokiness of the grilled chicken with the crunch of the veggies and creaminess of the avocado. My picky eater, my daughter, couldn’t get enough of the sweet corn and the tangy dressing.
This salad has been on the weekly rotation ever since. It’s the dish I make when I’m out of time, it’s that simple and healthy. It’s also my potluck and BBQ staple, where it gets rave reviews.
Image So why do we love it? It’s really very plain: it’s tasty, versatile, and easy to prepare. Weather your cooking collards for yourself or for a group, this recipe won’t disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Chop Salad
This BBQ Chicken Chop Salad is a game changer for all you salad lovers out there who want to have your salad and eat your BBQ chicken too. Here’s what makes it special:
- Smoky BBQ Chicken : This is the star of the show… it’s so smoky and tangy and goes so well with the crisp veggies!
- Fresh, Crunchy Veggies : These crunchy lettuce, sweet corn and juicy tomatoes give each bite something fresh.
- Creamy Avocado : Creamy, avocado smooths over smoky chicken with its rich, buttery creaminess.
- This dressing is the perfect balance of tangy and sweet.
- Customizable : You can top it with your favorite toppings, use a new dressing, or just make it a healthier Cobb! It is a recipe that you make your own!
How To Make BBQ Chicken Chop Salad
A few pointers, in case you want to take your salad to the next level :
- Fresh Ingredients : Fresh lettuce, fresh ripe avocado, and fresh sweet corn is key in this salad.
- Make It Ahead : It’s possible to prep the ingredients in advance and toss the salad when you’re ready to eat.
- Make It Your Own how to customized-your-dressing Customize Your Dressing : If ranch isn’t your fava, try a cilantro-lime dressing or a balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.
Substitutions and Variations
If you want to change this salad up, here are a few delicious options :
- Protein : Replace BBQ chicken with grilled shrimp or steak, or tofu.
- Cheese : Substitute blue cheese, feta or goat cheese for the cheddar.
- Veggies : Include bell peppers, cucumber or black beans for more crunch and flavor.
Make a Healthier Version
Want to lighten things up? Here’s how :
- Opt for low-fat ranch dressing or a dressing made with yogurt.
- Omit the cheese or reduce it by half.
- Trade barbecue chicken for grilled chicken breast with a bit of BBQ sauce.
- Toss in a handful of leafy greens such as spinach or kale or some shredded zucchini, for a veggie-crammed meal.
Todd Wilbur’s Closing
And there you have it! A tasty easy BBQ Chicken Chop Salad that’s as perfect for guests as it is for a quick dinner. And if you like to tell us how your dish turned out, check out some of our other Recipes.
Easy BBQ Chicken Chop Salad
Description
This BBQ Chicken Chop Salad is a delightful combination of smoky barbecue chicken, fresh veggies, crunchy tortilla strips, and creamy dressing. It's a satisfying and flavorful meal that's perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy a burst of delicious flavors in every bite!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients: Start by cooking and shredding the BBQ chicken. Chop the lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, dice the avocado, and thinly slice the red onion.
-
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, layer the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, sweet corn, avocado, and red onion. Top with the shredded BBQ chicken and shredded cheese (if using).
-
Dress the Salad: Drizzle the salad with ranch dressing and toss gently to combine.
-
Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious, flavorful salad.
