BBQ Chicken Salad topped with creamy avocado dressing on a wooden table

BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

This BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a delicious and healthy choice for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to make, full of fresh ingredients, and packed with flavor. The combination of grilled chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy dressing makes it a satisfying meal. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy barbecue flavors without the heavy sides!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 6 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., Romaine, spinach, arugula)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or thawed frozen)
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped

Directions:

  1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  3. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush each side of the chicken with barbecue sauce. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
  4. In a blender or food processor, combine the ripe avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
  5. In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion. Toss gently to mix all ingredients.
  6. Arrange the grilled BBQ chicken slices on top of the salad.
  7. Drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and garnish with chopped cilantro.
  8. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavors of this refreshing BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Enjoy this salad as a main dish for lunch or dinner. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or tortilla chips if you want a little crunch. You can also serve it at picnics or gatherings, making it a great option for sharing.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

If you have leftovers, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to keep the dressing separate to prevent the greens from getting soggy. You can store the salad ingredients for up to 2 days. The creamy avocado dressing is best used within 1 day for optimal freshness.

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

  • Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for perfect doneness.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots.
  • If you want extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in barbecue sauce for a couple of hours before grilling.

Variation

You can easily customize this salad by using different proteins, such as grilled shrimp or tofu. For a lighter option, try swapping out the BBQ sauce for a vinaigrette dressing.

FAQs

Can I use leftover chicken for this salad?
Yes! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works great in this salad.

How can I make this salad vegan?
You can substitute the chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas and use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dressing.

Can I make the dressing ahead of time?
Absolutely! The creamy avocado dressing can be made a day before and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before using it!