BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad with Corn and Black Beans

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, divided
• 1 cup cooked black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 1 large green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 1 avocado, diced
• 4 cups mixed greens or romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
• 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

1. 1 Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. 2 Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Brush with 2 tbsp BBQ sauce during last 2 minutes of cooking. Let rest, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. 3 In a large bowl, combine black beans, corn, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and greens.
4. 4 Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Add remaining BBQ sauce to this mixture.
5. 5 Add chopped chicken and avocado to the salad bowl. Gently toss with dressing until well combined.
6. 6 Sprinkle feta cheese and cilantro over the top just before serving.

Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Large mixing bowl
• Chef's knife
• Cutting board

Variations

• Add grilled shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Substitute quinoa for greens for a grain bowl option.

Substitutions

• Use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
• Substitute sunflower seeds for feta cheese for a vegan option.

Pairings

• Cornbread
• Limeade
• Warm tortillas

Nutrition

Tips

• For a smokier flavor, use smoked paprika in the dressing.
• Grill the corn for added char if using fresh or frozen.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Toss gently before serving again.

Freezing: This salad does not freeze well due to the avocado and greens.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with warm cornbread or a crusty baguette.
• Serve with a refreshing limeade.

FAQ