Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tsp (5g) smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp (2.5g) garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) salt
  • 1/4 tsp (1.25g) black pepper
  • 1 cup (240 ml) barbecue sauce
  • 8 cups (about 1 head) chopped romaine lettuce
  • 1 cup (150g) cooked corn kernels
  • 1 cup (170g) canned black beans, rinsed and drained
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/4 cup (25g) chopped cilantro (optional)
  • 1/4 cup (60 ml) ranch dressing or light vinaigrette (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Mix olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Rub mixture all over the chicken breasts.
  2. Grill or bake the chicken until cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C). Let rest for 5 minutes, then dice or shred.
  3. Toss the diced/shredded chicken with the barbecue sauce. Ensure it's evenly coated.
  4. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, corn, black beans, red bell pepper, red onion, avocado, and cilantro (if using).
  5. Top the salad with the barbecue chicken.
  6. Drizzle with ranch dressing or vinaigrette (if using) and serve immediately. This Sweet & Smoky BBQ Chicken Salad Fiesta is now ready.