What's on a barbecue chicken salad?

A classic barbecue chicken salad includes grilled or oven-baked BBQ-glazed chicken, a fresh lettuce base, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and a bold dressing. Our version uses a creamy cilantro dressing and optional tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

What are the 4 ingredients in chicken salad?

At its most basic, a traditional chicken salad is made with cooked chicken, mayonnaise, celery, and seasoning. However, this bbq chicken salad modernizes the concept by using BBQ chicken, fresh vegetables, and a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter, more vibrant take.

What usually goes in a chicken salad?

Ingredients vary by region and style, but most chicken salads contain shredded or chopped chicken, a creamy element (like mayo or yogurt), and additions like celery, onion, grapes, or herbs. In BBQ versions, bold flavors come from the barbecue sauce, grilled meat, and tangy dressings.

What's a good salad for a barbecue?

A great barbecue salad balances freshness and bold flavor. BBQ chicken salad fits this perfectly — it's hearty enough to stand alone but also complements grilled meats and summery sides. Plus, its ingredients hold up well, making it ideal for outdoor serving.

BBQ Chicken Salad – 1 Powerful Summer Favorite Uncovered

Description

BBQ chicken salad with bold flavors, creamy cilantro dressing, and fresh ingredients. A quick, satisfying summer salad you’ll crave often.

Ingredients

For the salad:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- Salt, black pepper, and paprika to season
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 6 cups chopped lettuce
- 3/4 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3/4 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed from frozen)
- 3/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 large avocado, diced
- Tortilla chips (optional)
For the creamy cilantro dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro (leaves and stems)
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Black pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the dressing: Blend Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a food processor until smooth. Chill in the fridge.
Cook the chicken: Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly coat a baking dish with nonstick spray. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Place in the dish and brush both sides with barbecue sauce. Bake for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked. Let cool, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Assemble the salad: In a large bowl, combine lettuce, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and avocado. Drizzle with dressing and toss gently. Top with chopped chicken and tortilla chips if using. Serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Seasonal and Holiday Salads
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American