BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

If you’re looking for a vibrant and satisfying dish that can please a crowd, let me introduce you to my BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch. This recipe is a true favorite of mine because it combines the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with crunchy fresh veggies, all topped off with an irresistible cilantro ranch dressing. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even as a delightful side at your next barbecue.

What makes this salad so special is not just its colorful appearance but also its incredible flavor. With juicy chicken thighs, crispy tortilla chips, and a mix of hearty ingredients, it’s a meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s healthy and filling without feeling heavy, making it a wonderful choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This salad comes together quickly in just about 25 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you need dinner fast!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone from kids to adults will love the combination of flavors and textures in this dish.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The ingredients can be prepped in advance, making it easy to throw together at mealtime.
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of BBQ chicken and cilantro ranch creates a deliciously unique taste that will keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad boasts simple, wholesome ingredients that are both nutritious and delicious. You might already have some of these staples in your kitchen! Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup low-fat buttermilk
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 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
• 1/2 cup favorite BBQ sauce or make your own here
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large head romaine lettuce, (finely chopped)
• 1/2 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
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 2 green onions, (thinly sliced)
• 3/4 cup cilantro leaves, (chopped)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Try using grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some diced bell peppers or cucumber for extra texture.
• Change the cheese: Swap Monterey Jack for feta or cheddar to suit your taste.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced avocado or extra jalapeños for those who like a kick!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by blending the buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, cilantro leaves, jalapeño pepper, ranch seasoning, and garlic in a blender. Blend until smooth. This creamy dressing adds incredible flavor to the salad and balances out the smokiness of the BBQ chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet over medium heat, add vegetable oil. Once hot, place the chicken thighs in the pan. Cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (about 5-6 minutes per side). Brush them generously with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. This step ensures that every bite is packed with flavor!

Step 3: Chop Up Your Veggies

While your chicken is cooking, chop up the romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces and prepare your other veggies—black beans, corn kernels off the cob, cherry tomatoes halved, shredded carrots—the more colorful your salad is, the better!

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Once everything is cooked and prepped, it’s time to put it all together! In a large bowl or serving platter, mix together your chopped lettuce and veggies. Slice up your BBQ chicken thighs and nestle them on top. Don’t forget to sprinkle on those crushed tortilla chips for an unbeatable crunch!

Step 5: Drizzle with Dressing

Finally, drizzle that creamy cilantro ranch dressing over everything. Toss lightly if desired or serve as is so everyone can take as much dressing as they want! This last touch brings all the flavors together beautifully.

And there you have it—a delicious BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch that’s sure to impress! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Prep ingredients ahead: Chopping your veggies and cooking the chicken in advance can save you time on busy weeknights and make assembling the salad a snap.
• Customize your protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken thighs, feel free to swap in grilled chicken breasts or even shredded rotisserie chicken for added convenience.
• Make it spicy or mild: Adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño based on your preference. This allows everyone at the table to enjoy it just how they like it!
• Fresh herbs are key: Using fresh cilantro not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant color to your salad, making it visually appealing.
• Add crunch with toppings: Don’t skip the crushed tortilla chips! They provide a delightful crunch that complements the creamy cilantro ranch dressing perfectly.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is not only delicious but also visually stunning. Present it in a large bowl for a family-style meal, or serve individual portions for an elegant touch at gatherings.

Garnishes

• Lime wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices can elevate each bite, adding richness and healthy fats.
• Extra cilantro leaves: For those who love cilantro, sprinkle additional leaves on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

• Grilled corn on the cob: Sweet and juicy corn complements the salad beautifully, especially when brushed with lime butter.
• Baked sweet potato fries: These add a delightful sweetness and a crispy texture that pairs wonderfully with the tangy salad.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers can offer a wholesome side option that balances out the richness of the salad.
• Fruit salad: A refreshing fruit medley provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the chopped salad, making it a perfect light dessert option.

With these serving suggestions, your BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad will be both satisfying and impressive! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare the components ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to serve to prevent the salad from getting soggy.
• Consume leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• This salad is not recommended for freezing as the texture of fresh vegetables will change significantly upon thawing.
• However, you can freeze cooked chicken if you have extra. Just make sure it’s properly sealed in a freezer-safe bag.

Reheating

• If you’ve stored leftover chicken, simply reheat it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Avoid reheating the entire salad as it’s best enjoyed fresh!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use grilled chicken instead of baked chicken thighs in the BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken adds a lovely smoky flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully. Just make sure it’s cooked through before chopping and adding to your salad.

How do I make the dressing for BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch?

To make the cilantro ranch dressing, blend low-fat buttermilk, mayonnaise, sour cream, fresh cilantro, jalapeño pepper, ranch seasoning, and garlic until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste!

Can I substitute different beans in this salad?

Yes! While black beans are used here, you can easily swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas based on your preference.

Is this BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! The ingredients can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to assemble fresh servings throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Cilantro Ranch as much as I do! It’s a fantastic option that combines vibrant flavors and textures while being nutritious and filling. Whether it’s for a family dinner or meal prep for your week ahead, this salad is sure to impress. Happy cooking!