Why Make This Recipe
BBQ Chicken Salad is a fun and delicious dish that combines the flavors of barbecue with the freshness of salad. It is quick to prepare, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or a summer gathering. This salad is not only tasty but also filling, thanks to the protein from the chicken and the crunch from the corn chips.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Salad
Ingredients:
- 1 cup Ranch dressing
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 5 cups cooked rotisserie barbecued chicken (diced)
- 24-ounce bag romaine lettuce salad
- 30 ounces black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 2 cups corn kernels
- 2 cups red onion (sliced in rings)
- 2 cups Monterey Jack cheese (shredded)
- 4 cups corn chips (Fritos)
Directions:
- Mix the Ranch dressing and barbecue sauce together in a bowl and set aside.
- In a large bowl, add the cooked chicken, romaine lettuce, black beans, corn kernels, and red onion.
- Pour the Ranch mixture over the ingredients in the bowl and lightly toss until everything is coated with the dressing.
- Gently stir in the corn chips for an added crunch.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Salad
Serve the BBQ Chicken Salad immediately after making it for the best flavor and texture. You can place the salad in a large bowl for family-style eating or divide it into individual serving bowls. Consider adding extra corn chips on top for a crunchy garnish and a side of extra barbecue sauce if someone wants more flavor.
How to Store BBQ Chicken Salad
If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the corn chips separate from the salad to maintain their crunchiness. The salad will stay fresh for about 2-3 days, but the flavors will continue to blend over time.
Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Salad
- For a spicier version, add jalapeños to the mix.
- You can use any leftover rotisserie chicken you have on hand.
- Feel free to swap the Ranch dressing for your favorite creamy dressing.
- Add other veggies like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
Variation
You can easily turn this salad into a vegetarian option by omitting the chicken and adding roasted veggies or extra beans instead. You can also try using different cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of lettuce?
Yes, you can use any type of lettuce you prefer, such as iceberg or mixed greens.
2. Is this salad good for meal prep?
Yes, you can prepare the salad a day in advance, but it’s recommended to add the corn chips just before serving to keep them crunchy.
3. Can I add more protein to this salad?
Absolutely! You can add diced avocado, hard-boiled eggs, or even grilled shrimp for more protein options.
