BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it perfect for any occasion. From summer barbecues to hearty weeknight dinners, this salad stands out with its vibrant ingredients and zesty dressing. The combination of tender BBQ chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy cilantro ranch dressing will leave your taste buds singing!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dressing
• For the Salad
• How to Make BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken
• Step 3: Chop the Salad Ingredients
• Step 4: Assemble the Salad
• How to Serve BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• As a Main Course
• In a Wrap
• With Extra Dressing
• As a Side Dish
• Garnished with Avocado
• How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• Reheating BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch?
• Can I make this salad ahead of time?
• What other toppings can I add?
• How do I make homemade BBQ sauce?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With quick prep and cook times, this salad fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Flavor Explosion: The BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with the fresh, crunchy veggies and zesty dressing.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or side dish; it’s great for gatherings or meal prep.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite ingredients or toppings to suit your taste!

Tools and Preparation

Preparing this delicious BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch requires just a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Mixing bowl
• Grill pan or skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for vegetables and chicken, making prep easier.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining all ingredients evenly without spilling.
• Grill pan or skillet: Perfect for cooking chicken thighs to juicy perfection.

Ingredients

For the Dressing

• ½ cup low-fat buttermilk
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup packed cilantro leaves
• 1 medium jalapeño pepper (seeds removed)
• 1 (1-ounce) package Hidden Valley ranch seasoning
• 1 clove garlic (chopped)

For the Salad

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup favorite BBQ sauce or make your own here
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large head romaine lettuce (finely chopped)
• ½ cup cooked black beans
• 1 medium ear corn (kernels cut off the cob)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
• ½ cup shredded carrots
• 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
• ¼ cup cilantro leaves (chopped)

How to Make BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by blending the dressing ingredients together:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine low-fat buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro leaves, jalapeño pepper, ranch seasoning, and chopped garlic.
2. Whisk until smooth and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Next, prepare the chicken:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a grill pan over medium heat.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper if desired.
3. Grill each side for about 5 minutes until fully cooked; brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of cooking.

Step 3: Chop the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken is cooking:
1. Finely chop romaine lettuce and place it in a large mixing bowl.
2. Add black beans, corn kernels, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, halved cherry tomatoes, crushed tortilla chips, shredded carrots, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Finally, combine everything:
1. Once the chicken is done cooking, slice it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Add sliced chicken on top of the salad mixture.
3. Drizzle with cilantro ranch dressing before serving.

Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch as a refreshing meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is refreshing and packed with flavor, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

As a Main Course

• Serve the salad as a standalone dish topped with extra grilled chicken for a satisfying main course.

In a Wrap

• Use large lettuce leaves to wrap the salad for a fun, handheld meal that’s perfect for picnics or lunch on the go.

With Extra Dressing

• Provide additional cilantro ranch dressing on the side for those who love extra flavor in every bite.

As a Side Dish

• Serve smaller portions alongside grilled meats or other dishes for a colorful and nutritious side option.

Garnished with Avocado

• Add sliced avocado on top of each serving for creaminess that complements the BBQ flavors perfectly.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch comes out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutritional value of your salad.
• Grill the Chicken: Grilling chicken thighs adds a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the BBQ sauce.
• Chill Before Serving: Letting the salad chill in the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients like bell peppers, avocado, or different cheeses for variety.
• Make Extra Dressing: Having more cilantro ranch dressing on hand is always a good idea; it can be used for other salads too.
• Toast Tortilla Chips: For added crunch, lightly toast your crushed tortilla chips before adding them to the salad.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: A sweet and buttery cornbread complements the savory flavors of the salad beautifully.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add a smoky taste that pairs well with BBQ chicken.
3. Baked Beans: The sweetness of baked beans balances the tangy notes in the salad and provides an excellent protein boost.
4. Coleslaw: A crisp coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the textures of the chopped salad.
5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side that everyone will love.
6. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds a refreshing sweetness that complements the richness of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

This section highlights common pitfalls that can occur when making BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch.

• Using too much dressing: Adding excessive dressing can overwhelm the salad. Start with a small amount and add more to taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Cook it just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for juicy results.
• Skipping fresh ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key to flavor. Always use ripe tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and crisp lettuce for the best taste.
• Not chilling the salad: Serving the salad warm can affect texture. Chill it in the refrigerator before serving for a refreshing dish.
• Ignoring seasoning: Failing to season your chicken properly can lead to blandness. Use enough BBQ sauce and spices to enhance the flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

• Freeze the salad without dressing for better quality, lasting up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover, and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently for even warming.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch?

BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a vibrant salad featuring chopped romaine lettuce, grilled BBQ chicken, fresh vegetables, cheese, and a creamy cilantro ranch dressing.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare most components ahead of time; just store them separately in the fridge and combine before serving for best results.

What other toppings can I add?

Feel free to customize by adding avocado, jalapeños, or your favorite nuts for added texture and flavor.

How do I make homemade BBQ sauce?

To make homemade BBQ sauce, combine ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and spices like paprika and garlic powder in a saucepan. Simmer until thickened.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is not only delicious but also highly customizable. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner and brings together fresh ingredients in a hearty way. Try adding your favorite veggies or proteins for a unique twist!