Description
BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is a vibrant and flavorful dish that transforms fresh ingredients into a satisfying meal. Perfect for summer picnics, casual gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, this salad combines tender BBQ chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy cilantro ranch dressing for a delightful taste experience. The smoky sweetness of the chicken pairs beautifully with the zesty dressing, making every bite a celebration of flavor. Easy to prepare and highly customizable, this salad not only pleases the palate but also offers nutritional benefits with its protein-packed ingredients and fresh veggies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 large head romaine lettuce (finely chopped)
- ½ cup cooked black beans
- 1 ear corn (kernels cut off)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 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)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 green onions (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup cilantro leaves (chopped)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken thighs in BBQ sauce for at least 10 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a grill or skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Let rest before slicing.
- Blend buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro, jalapeño, ranch seasoning, and garlic until smooth.
- In a large bowl, toss together romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, cheese, and other salad toppings.
- Drizzle half the dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently. Top with sliced chicken and additional dressing if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling/Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 901mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 119mg