Bursting with bold and vibrant flavors, California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad is a true crowd-pleaser that brings a fresh twist to classic barbecue-inspired cuisine. This hearty yet refreshing salad combines tender, juicy grilled chicken glazed with smoky barbecue sauce, crisp romaine lettuce, and a medley of colorful toppings like red cabbage, sweet corn, black beans, jicama, and cherry tomatoes. Tied together with a creamy BBQ ranch dressing and finished with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and optional tortilla strips for crunch, this recipe offers the perfect balance of zesty, sweet, and savory in every bite. Ready in just 30 minutes, this salad is ideal for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, making it a must-try for fans of flavorful, restaurant-style meals at home.
Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Brush the chicken breasts with barbecue sauce on both sides.
Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then dice into bite-sized pieces.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, red cabbage, sweet corn, black beans, jicama, cilantro, green onions, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and cherry tomatoes.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and 2 tablespoons of barbecue sauce to make the BBQ ranch dressing.
Add the diced chicken to the salad and drizzle with the BBQ ranch dressing. Toss gently to combine and ensure even coating.
Divide the salad among serving plates. Optional: Top with crispy tortilla strips for added crunch.
Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful BBQ Chicken Salad!
Calories |
2361 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 98.6 g | 126% | |
| Saturated Fat | 22.8 g | 114% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 296 mg | 99% | |
| Sodium | 4836 mg | 210% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 268.3 g | 98% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 39.0 g | 139% | |
| Total Sugars | 84.8 g | ||
| Protein | 123.3 g | 247% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.3 mcg | 2% | |
| Calcium | 944 mg | 73% | |
| Iron | 13.9 mg | 77% | |
| Potassium | 3807 mg | 81% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.