BBQ Chicken Salad

### Savor the Season with Our Irresistible BBQ Chicken Salad

Looking for a fresh and delicious summer meal? Look no further! Our BBQ Chicken Salad is packed with vibrant flavors and textures, making it the perfect dish for a refreshing, hearty dinner. This salad features tender grilled chicken breast smothered in BBQ sauce, combined with crisp romaine lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, crunchy tortilla strips, and a medley of other flavorful ingredients. Here’s everything you need to create this crowd-pleaser at home.

#### Ingredients:

– **Grilled BBQ Chicken Breast:** Marinated and grilled to perfection, then sliced into strips.
– **Romaine Lettuce:** Crisp and fresh, providing the perfect base for this salad.
– **Cherry Tomatoes:** Halved for a burst of juicy sweetness in every bite.
– **Red Onion:** Thinly sliced for a slight sharpness.
– **Corn Kernels:** Add a sweet and crunchy texture.
– **Black Beans:** For a protein-rich, creamy addition.
– **Shredded Cheddar Cheese:** A touch of sharp, savory richness.
– **Tortilla Strips:** Offering the ultimate crunch factor.
– **BBQ Ranch Dressing:** The perfect blend of creamy ranch and tangy BBQ flavors.

#### Directions:

1. **Grill the Chicken:**
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
– Grill the BBQ chicken breast until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
– Remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.

2. **Prepare the Salad Base:**
– Chop the romaine lettuce and place it into a large salad bowl.

3. **Add the Veggies:**
– Halve the cherry tomatoes and thinly slice the red onion, then add them to the bowl.
– Add corn kernels and black beans on top of the lettuce mixture.

4. **Incorporate the Cheese:**
– Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the salad.

5. **Top with Chicken:**
– Arrange the grilled BBQ chicken slices on top of the salad.

6. **Dress the Salad:**
– Drizzle BBQ ranch dressing evenly over the entire salad.

7. **Add Crunch:**
– Finish it off with a generous handful of tortilla strips for that perfect crunch.

#### Notes:
– **Marination Tip:** For an extra burst of flavor, marinate your chicken breasts in BBQ sauce for at least an hour before grilling.
– **Vegetarian Option:** Substitute the grilled chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
– **Dressing Swap:** If BBQ ranch isn’t your favorite, try a cilantro-lime dressing for a fresh twist.

#### Suggestions:
– **Pair With:** A refreshing glass of lemonade or iced tea works perfectly with this salad.
– **Add Some Heat:** Sprinkle some sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit of spice.
– **Make it a Wrap:** Turn this salad into a wrap using large flour tortillas for a fun and portable lunch option.

#### Conclusion:
Enjoy this ultimate summer BBQ Chicken Salad with your loved ones! It’s easy to put together, packed with nutritious ingredients, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a simple family dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

#### FAQ:

**Q:** Can I use store-bought BBQ chicken for this recipe?
**A:** Absolutely! Store-bought BBQ chicken can save time, just make sure it’s fully cooked.

**Q:** How long can I store leftovers?
**A:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. However, store the dressing separately to keep the salad crisp.