Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly embodies the spirit of Southern cuisine! This Sweet Southern BBQ Chicken Salad is a delightful fusion of smoky grilled chicken, crisp fresh veggies, and a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. Whether you're hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this salad is your ticket to a deliciously satisfying dining experience. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you'll be amazed at how effortlessly you can whip up this crowd-pleaser. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create a salad that’s not just a side, but a star!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Chicken breast
- BBQ sauce
- Mixed greens
- Cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber
- Red onion
- Feta cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brush generously with BBQ sauce on both sides.
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F, continually basting with additional BBQ sauce.
- Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5-7 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- While chicken is resting, prepare the salad base by washing and chopping mixed greens.
- Dice cucumber, slice cherry tomatoes in half, and thinly slice red onion.
- Cut grilled chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- In a large salad bowl, layer mixed greens, cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion.
- Top the salad with sliced BBQ chicken and crumbled feta cheese.
- Drizzle additional BBQ sauce as a dressing or serve with a side of light vinaigrette.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the fresh, tangy Southern-style BBQ chicken salad.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even richer taste, consider marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for a few hours or overnight before grilling. This will infuse the meat with more flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This guarantees juicy, tender chicken every time.
- Customize Your Greens: Feel free to mix and match your salad greens! Spinach, arugula, or kale can add unique flavors and textures to your salad.
- Add Crunch: For an added crunch, toss in some toasted nuts or seeds, such as pecans or sunflower seeds, to enhance the salad's texture.
- Dress It Up: While BBQ sauce is delicious, a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken and add a refreshing twist. Experiment with different dressings to find your favorite combination!
- Serve Fresh: This salad is best enjoyed fresh, so assemble it just before serving to keep the greens crisp and vibrant.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 391kcal
Carbohydrates: 26g
Protein: 40g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 125mg
