Description

A vibrant, flavor-packed salad featuring tender grilled chicken coated in tangy BBQ sauce, crisp romaine lettuce, fresh vegetables, black beans, corn, cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing topped with crunchy tortilla strips.

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
8 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1½ cups corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
½ medium red onion, thinly sliced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1½ cups tortilla strips or chips, crushed
¾ cup ranch dressing
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 large avocado, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F) and lightly oil the grates.
3. Place chicken on the hot grill and cook for 6-7 minutes without moving, allowing grill marks to develop.
4. Flip chicken and continue cooking for another 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last few minutes, brush chicken liberally with BBQ sauce and allow it to caramelize slightly.
6. Transfer chicken to a clean plate and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips or cubes.
7. In a large serving bowl, arrange the chopped romaine lettuce as the base.
8. Add cherry tomatoes, black beans, corn, and red onion, distributing evenly throughout.
9. Top with sliced BBQ chicken and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Drizzle ranch dressing over the salad or serve on the side.
11. Just before serving, add diced avocado, crushed tortilla strips, and fresh cilantro.
12. Toss gently and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Store cooked chicken separately from vegetables in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. Keep dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Add tortilla strips and avocado fresh each time. For meal prep, layer ingredients in mason jars with dressing at bottom, then beans, corn, chicken, cheese, and lettuce on top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course Salad
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 2 cups)
Calories: 425
Sugar: 12g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 8g
Protein: 38g