Imagine yourself sitting in a cozy California Pizza Kitchen restaurant, surrounded by the delicious aroma of freshly baked pizzas and sizzling BBQ chicken. The menu is filled with tempting options, but one dish stands out above the rest – the Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad. This salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a tangy BBQ dressing that will leave your taste buds tingling.
Tastes Just Like the Original
This homemade version of the California Pizza Kitchen Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad tastes just like the one you would order at the restaurant. The key is in the combination of fresh ingredients and the homemade BBQ dressing that brings all the flavors together.
Reasons to Make This Dish
- It’s a healthy and satisfying meal option.
- Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
- Great for meal prep and can be enjoyed as leftovers.
Why My Family Loves This Meal
My family loves this meal because it’s a crowd-pleaser that everyone enjoys. The flavors are bold and satisfying, and the combination of ingredients creates a well-balanced and delicious dish that we keep coming back to time and time again.
Ingredients
- For the Salad:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, chopped
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- For the BBQ Dressing:
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Ingredients
Before you start assembling the salad, make sure all your ingredients are prepped and ready to go. Chop the chicken, lettuce, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Drain and rinse the black beans, and shred the Monterey Jack cheese.
Cutting Techniques
When chopping the ingredients for the salad, make sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces for easy eating. This will ensure that each bite is a perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Kitchen Tools Required
You will need a sharp knife for chopping the ingredients, a cutting board, a large salad bowl for mixing, and measuring spoons for the dressing. These tools are essential for preparing the salad efficiently and safely.
Temperature and Timing Guide
There is no cooking required for this salad, so you can assemble it in just a few minutes. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start putting the salad together.
Common Issues and Solutions
If your salad seems dry, you can add a little more BBQ dressing to moisten it up. If it’s too wet, you can add more lettuce or other crunchy vegetables to balance out the texture.
Instructions
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine the chopped chicken, romaine lettuce, black beans, corn, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Make the BBQ Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the Salad: Pour the BBQ dressing over the salad and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Serve and Enjoy: Divide the salad into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy the delicious flavors of the Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad!
Prep and Cooking Time
The prep time for this salad is approximately 15 minutes, and there is no cooking required. You can have this meal on the table in under 20 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights.
Tips for Perfect Results
For the best results, make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients. The BBQ dressing is the star of this salad, so don’t skimp on the flavor. Feel free to customize the salad with your favorite toppings or add-ins to make it your own.
Alternative Ways to Change the Recipe
- Swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Add avocado slices or crispy tortilla strips for extra flavor and crunch.
- Experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
The Original BBQ Chicken Chopped Salad is a delicious and satisfying meal that you can enjoy at home with this easy-to-follow recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal prep option, this salad is sure to become a family favorite. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor every bite of this flavorful dish. Enjoy!
