BBQ Chicken Salad (Printable Version)

Juicy BBQ chicken with crisp vegetables, tortilla chips and cheese tossed in a smoky BBQ ranch dressing for the ultimate summer meal.

# Ingredients:

→ For BBQ Chicken

01 - Oil for greasing grill
02 - 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
03 - 1 teaspoon seasoned salt or 2 tablespoons homemade dry rub
04 - ½ cup BBQ sauce

→ For Salad

05 - 3 hearts romaine lettuce, chopped
06 - 1 large seedless cucumber, diced
07 - 1 small red onion, minced
08 - 1 pint grape tomatoes, sliced
09 - 1 cup corn kernels
10 - ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
11 - ½ cup corn chips or tortilla strips (optional)

→ For BBQ Ranch Dressing

12 - 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
13 - ½ cup ranch dressing

# Steps:

01 - Preheat grill to medium-high heat and brush the grates lightly with oil. Trim fat or grizzle off chicken, pound to ½-inch thick, and sprinkle seasoned salt evenly over each side.
02 - Place chicken on the grill and cook undisturbed for 5 minutes. Flip and grill another 4 minutes. Brush one side with BBQ sauce, flip, and brush the other side. Cook for an additional 2 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 163-165°F (73-74℃). Remove and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
03 - Combine 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce with ½ cup ranch dressing until well incorporated.
04 - Combine chopped romaine lettuce, diced cucumber, minced onion, halved tomatoes, and corn in a large bowl. Toss to evenly mix.
05 - Divide salad base into individual serving dishes. Top with sliced BBQ chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, a drizzle of the dressing, and tortilla chips. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - Best served immediately after preparation.
02 - Store chicken, salad, and dressing separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
03 - Customize toppings; black beans, diced bell peppers, cubed cheese, or pickled jalapenos are excellent additions.