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game day bbq chicken chopped salad

Game Day BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad: A Hearty & Flavorful Crowd-Pleaser


  • Author: David Andersson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A Game Day BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a vibrant and filling dish that brings together the smoky richness of BBQ chicken, the crunch of fresh veggies, and the creamy tang of a BBQ-ranch dressing. This salad is perfect for gatherings, offering both a light yet hearty option that can easily feed a crowd. The ingredients are customizable, so you can make it as healthy, spicy, or indulgent as you like. Whether you’re serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or as a part of a larger spread for a party, this chopped salad is a guaranteed hit.


Ingredients

Scale

Salad Base

  • 3 cups chopped romaine lettuce

  • 2 cups chopped green or purple cabbage (or coleslaw mix)

  • 2 cups cooked BBQ chicken, chopped or shredded

    • (use rotisserie + BBQ sauce or grilled chicken breasts tossed in sauce)

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 cup grilled or canned corn (drained)

  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed & drained (optional)

  • 1 avocado, diced

  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or pepper jack (optional)

  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

  • 1/4 cup sliced green onions

  • Crushed tortilla chips or cornbread croutons (optional topper)

BBQ Ranch Dressing

  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)

  • 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (sweet, smoky, or spicy)

  • 1 tbsp lime juice (optional)

  • 1–2 tbsp milk or water to thin if needed

  • Pinch smoked paprika or cumin (optional)


Instructions

  • Prep chicken
    Toss cooked chicken in BBQ sauce until well-coated. Warm if desired.

  • Make dressing
    Stir ranch + BBQ sauce + lime until smooth. Adjust thickness and seasoning.

  • Assemble salad
    In a large bowl, layer or toss: romaine, cabbage, corn, beans, tomatoes, onion, and BBQ chicken.

  • Add toppings last
    Add avocado, cheese (if using), green onions, and crushed tortilla chips right before serving.

  • Dress & serve
    Drizzle dressing over the top or serve on the side for dipping/scooping.

Notes

This hearty and flavorful salad is perfect for game day or casual gatherings! Packed with smoky BBQ chicken, fresh veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s satisfying on its own or as a side to your favorite grilled dishes. Add extra shredded cheese or crunchy tortilla strips for more texture and flair.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Salad, Main Course
  • Method: Grilled & Chopped
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 salad bowl
  • Calories: 320

Keywords: BBQ chicken salad, BBQ chopped salad, Game day salad, BBQ chicken recipe, Chopped salad with BBQ chicken