Craving a fresh and flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and good for you? This Avocado BBQ Chicken Salad is a fantastic choice, offering all the smoky goodness of BBQ chicken in a vibrant, easy-to-make salad. It’s a perfect addition to your collection of healthy BBQ chicken recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Cooked Chicken Breast: Rotisserie chicken works great for a quick shortcut.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade variety. Look for lower-sugar options for a healthier twist.
- Avocado: Ensure it’s ripe but firm for best texture.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen (thawed), or canned (drained) all work well.
- Black Beans: Canned and rinsed are perfectly fine.
- Greens: Mixed greens, romaine, or spinach are all excellent bases.
Ingredients:
For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
- 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen thawed, or canned rinsed)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes (if cooking fresh chicken)
- Servings: 4
- Tools Needed: Large mixing bowl, small whisk, cutting board, sharp knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the BBQ Chicken
Toss your cooked, shredded or diced chicken with the BBQ sauce in a medium bowl. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. Set it aside to allow the flavors to meld slightly. This creates the delicious core of your healthy BBQ chicken recipe.
2. Chop Your Veggies
Dice the avocado, halve the cherry tomatoes, and finely dice the red onion. If using fresh corn, quickly blanch it or sauté it for a few minutes. Rinse and drain your black beans thoroughly.
3. Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, honey or maple syrup, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Continue whisking until the dressing is well combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion. Add the BBQ chicken mixture and the diced avocado.
5. Dress and Serve
Pour the prepared dressing over the salad ingredients. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated. Serve immediately and enjoy your vibrant, healthy BBQ chicken salad!
Variation Ideas:
- Add Crunch: Top with a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips or toasted pepitas.
- Extra Veggies: Include bell peppers, cucumbers, or a sprinkle of cilantro.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce or dressing for a kick.
- Cheese Please: A light sprinkle of shredded cheddar or cojita cheese can enhance flavor.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. For best results, keep the dressing separate and add it just before serving to prevent the greens from wilting. This helps maintain the freshness of your healthy BBQ chicken meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can you prepare this salad ahead of time?
A: You can prep most components like the chicken, dressing, and chopped vegetables a day in advance. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep the avocado fresh and the greens crisp.
Q: What kind of BBQ sauce should you use?
A: Choose your favorite! Many brands offer lower-sugar or natural options that align with healthy BBQ chicken recipes.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, as long as your BBQ sauce is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels.
Q: Can you use a different type of protein?
A: While designed for chicken, cooked turkey or even plant-based chicken substitutes could work in this recipe.
Q: How do you know when an avocado is ripe?
A: A ripe avocado will yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed. The stem end might also appear a little darker.
Q: What are some other healthy BBQ chicken recipes?
A: You can find many variations, including BBQ chicken lettuce wraps, grilled BBQ chicken skewers, or even BBQ chicken bowls with quinoa.
