There’s something magical about a salad that doesn’t feel like you’re settling for something “healthy.” A salad that’s bold, satisfying, and bursting with flavors you actually crave. That’s exactly what this bbq chicken salad delivers—a perfect balance of smoky, creamy, crunchy, and fresh in every single bite.

Inspired by the popular California Pizza Kitchen version, but made better in your own kitchen, this salad with bbq chicken is about to become your new go-to meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a dish to impress at your next gathering, this recipe has you covered.

And if vibrant, wholesome meals are your thing, don’t miss my Healthy Greek Chicken Bowls—they’re another fresh favorite!

Why This BBQ Chicken Salad is Better Than CPK’s Version

Restaurant salads are great—until you realize you can make them even better at home. That’s exactly what happened when I decided to recreate CPK’s BBQ chicken salad. With fresher ingredients, customizable portions, and that homemade touch, this version beats the original every time.

No more soggy lettuce or skimping on toppings. When you build your own bbq chicken salad, you control the crunch, the creaminess, and just how much BBQ goodness you want.

The Perfect Balance of Flavor, Crunch, and Freshness

What sets this bbq chicken salad apart is how every ingredient plays its part. The smoky BBQ chicken contrasts beautifully with cool, crisp romaine. Sweet corn and juicy tomatoes balance the creamy avocado and ranch, while tortilla strips and jicama bring the crunch factor.

It’s a flavor and texture symphony—simple enough for a weekday meal but impressive enough to serve guests. And for more salad inspiration, my Southwest Chicken Salad is another must-try.

When to Serve BBQ Chicken Salad: From Lunches to Gatherings

This isn’t just any salad with bbq chicken—it’s a versatile dish that fits nearly every occasion:

Quick lunches or dinners
Meal prep for the week
Potlucks and picnics
Light but satisfying summer meals

It even pairs wonderfully with sides like my Watermelon Feta Salad for a refreshing combo.

Essential Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Salad

Let’s talk ingredients—the heart of any great recipe.

Cooked Chicken: Grilled, Baked, or Rotisserie

Use what you have! Grilled for smoky flavor, baked for simplicity, or rotisserie for convenience.

BBQ Sauce: The Flavor Booster

Choose your favorite—smoky, sweet, or spicy.

Romaine Lettuce: Fresh and Crisp Base

The crunch foundation that holds everything together.

Ranch Dressing: Creamy Perfection

Go for refrigerated or homemade for that fresh, rich flavor.

Corn: Sweet Pop of Flavor

Canned, fresh, or thawed frozen corn all work perfectly.

Black Beans: Hearty and Healthy

Adds protein, fiber, and that satisfying bite.

Tomatoes: Juicy and Colorful

Roma or cherry tomatoes bring freshness and color.

Jicama: Crunchy Surprise Element

Light, crisp, and subtly sweet—don’t skip it if you can find it!

Monterey Jack Cheese: Smooth and Mild

Melts just enough to blend without overpowering.

Avocado: Creamy Goodness

For that buttery texture we all love.

Green Onions: Fresh Zing

Brightens every bite.

Tortilla Strips: The Perfect Crunch

Adds that final satisfying crunch.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Salad

Tossing Lettuce with Ranch: The Flavor Foundation

Start by coating your romaine lightly with ranch.

Coating Chicken in BBQ Sauce: Infusing Smoky Sweetness

Generously toss your cubed chicken in BBQ sauce.

Layering the Ingredients: Creating a Visual Feast

Arrange all toppings beautifully over your lettuce and chicken base.

Final Drizzle: The Ranch Dressing Finish

A little extra ranch never hurt anyone!

Serving Suggestions: Best Ways to Enjoy Immediately

Serve fresh, with dressing and tortilla strips added last for maximum crunch.

Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Salad

Choosing the Best Tortilla Strips or Chips

Southwest-flavored strips = flavor upgrade.

How to Cook Chicken: Grilled, Pan-Seared, or Rotisserie Shortcuts

Whatever fits your schedule—grilled is my favorite.

The Secret to the Best Ranch Dressing

Fresh is always best—skip the shelf-stable stuff.

Using Fresh, Frozen, or Canned Corn Correctly

Thaw frozen corn properly; fresh is ideal in summer.

Tomato Choices: Roma vs. Cherry Tomatoes

Both work—use what’s ripe!

Why This Salad Should Be Served Fresh

Nobody likes soggy lettuce.

Prepping Ahead: What You Can Make in Advance

Keep components separate until you’re ready to serve.

Flavor Variations

Protein Swaps

Try pulled pork, steak, or ground turkey like in my Mediterranean Steak Bowls.

Bean Alternatives

Pinto beans are a great twist.

Extra Veggies

Bell peppers, cabbage, cucumber—get creative.

Creative Toppings

Think bacon, lime juice, or french fried onions.

Cheese Options

Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar or pepper jack.

Adding Extra BBQ Sauce

No such thing as too much BBQ flavor!

FAQs About BBQ Chicken Salad

Should the chicken be hot or cold?
Cold is best to keep everything crisp.

Best methods to cook chicken for salad?
Grilled or pan-seared are top picks.

How long can you store bbq chicken salad?
Undressed components last up to 2 days.

Can you make bbq chicken salad dairy-free?
Yes—use dairy-free ranch and skip the cheese.

What’s a good substitute for jicama?
Cucumber or apple slices.

How to keep avocado fresh in salad?
Toss with lime juice before adding.

Serving Ideas

Pairing BBQ Chicken Salad with Soups or Breads

Perfect with light soups or cornbread.

Turning It Into a Wrap or Sandwich

Leftovers make amazing wraps.

How to Make It a Party Favorite

Serve deconstructed for a fun DIY salad bar.

Nutrition Breakdown

Calories: ~616
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 43g
Healthy Fats: From avocado and cheese
Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals—this healthy bbq chicken salad fuels your day right.

Conclusion

This bbq chicken salad isn’t just a recipe—it’s a solution for when you want something easy, delicious, and satisfying. With endless ways to customize and flavors that hit every note, it’s no wonder this dish is on repeat in my kitchen.

Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding your own twist, you’re guaranteed a meal that’s anything but boring. For more fresh ideas, check out my Tzatziki Chicken Salad—because one can never have too many salad recipes in their back pocket!

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Ingredients

3 cups cooked chicken cubed (grilled, baked, or rotisserie)
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
6 cups romaine lettuce chopped
3/4 cup ranch dressing preferably refrigerated
1 cup corn canned or thawed from frozen
1 15 oz can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup tomatoes seeded and diced
1 cup jicama diced
1 cup Monterey Jack cheese shredded
1 avocado diced
1/2 cup green onions thinly sliced
1 1/2 cups tortilla strips

Instructions

In a large bowl, toss chopped romaine lettuce with 1/2 cup of ranch dressing until evenly coated.
In a separate bowl, combine cubed chicken with BBQ sauce, making sure the chicken is well coated.
Arrange the BBQ chicken over the lettuce base.
Evenly distribute corn, black beans, tomatoes, jicama, shredded cheese, diced avocado, green onions, and tortilla strips over the salad.
Drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of ranch dressing over the top.
Serve immediately and enjoy your fresh, flavorful BBQ chicken salad!

Notes

For extra flavor, use southwest-flavored tortilla strips if available.
Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver for busy days.
Use fresh or homemade ranch dressing for the best taste.
If prepping ahead, keep avocado, dressing, and tortilla strips separate until serving.
Customize with toppings like bacon, lime juice, or swap proteins for variety.

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