Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen! As I'm writing this post we are well into summer, and it is HOT! With that being said, all I want to eat is salad, but not just any salad. I want a delicious, hearty salad and nothing but my Southwest BBQ Chicken Salad will do.
Let's Get Started!
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS SOUTHWEST BBQ CHICKEN SALAD:
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of BBQ chicken, fresh vegetables, and a zesty dressing makes this salad irresistibly delicious.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and wholesome ingredients, this salad is a nutritious choice for lunch or dinner.
- Quick and Easy: With simple steps and easy-to-find ingredients, you can whip up this salad in no time.
For the BBQ Chicken:
- 2 Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 Tbsp BBQ Seasoning (I like the Kinder's brand)
- 1 Tbsp Olive Oil
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups Romaine Lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup Black Beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup Corn Kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 tsp Garlic Minced
- 1 Lime, zest and juice
- 1 cup Red Onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- French Fried Onions (for topping)
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt
- 1/4 cup BBQ Sauce
- 1 Lime, zest and juice
- 1 tsp Chili Powder
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Or Your Favorite Ranch Dressing
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the BBQ Chicken
- Preheat the grill or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken, on both sides, with the olive oil, BBQ seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into strips.
Step 2: Assemble the Salad
- Place a small skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and the corn. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the black beans, garlic, and lime juice. Cook for another 2 minutes.
- In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn and black beans, red onion, and shredded cheese.
- Add the BBQ chicken on top of the salad.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, BBQ sauce, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Serve
- Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
- Garnish with french fried onions and fresh cilantro.
- Toss Gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the dressing coats the salad evenly
TIPS FOR THE BEST SOUTHWEST BBQ CHICKEN SALAD:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a significant difference in flavor and texture.
- Homemade BBQ Sauce: If you have time, making your own BBQ sauce can elevate the dish even further.
- Grill for Extra Smokiness: Grilling the chicken adds a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
The Southwest BBQ Chicken Salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Protein: Chicken and black beans provide a great source of lean protein.
- Fiber: Vegetables and beans are rich in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer.
- Vitamins and Minerals: This salad is a powerhouse of vitamins A,C,K, and minerals like potassium and magnesium.
This Southwest BBQ Chicken Salad is a flavorful, healthy, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick weekend dinner, this salad is sure to impress. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments below!
And as always...
Happy Eatin' Y'all!
~The Kitchen Wife~
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