Do you want something fresh, bold, and a little energetic? Let me introduce you to my favorite go-to meal. Spicy BBQ Chicken Ranch Salad. Smoky, spicy grilled chicken served over crisp greens and topped with creamy BBQ ranch dressing.
I at first prepared this for a summer BBQ because I wanted something lighter than a burger, but just as delicious. Since then, it’s been a go-to meal prep choice that’s nutritious, substantial, and flavorful.
Let’s prepare a salad that’s packed with spice, creaminess, crunch, and BBQ delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Spicy BBQ Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
- 1 tbsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or sriracha)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
To prepare the Salad:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1 avocado (sliced)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup sliced red onion
- ½ cup black beans (rinsed)
- ½ cup corn (grilled or canned)
For the BBQ Ranch Dressing:
- ½ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 2 tbsp milk
- 2 tsp ranch seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Spicy BBQ Chicken Ranch Salad
1. Marinate and Cook the Chicken
- Mix BBQ sauce, hot sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken and marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Grill or pan-sear for 5–6 minutes on each side until cooked through.
- Let rest, then slice.
2. Make the BBQ Ranch Dressing
- In a large salad bowl, whisk together mayo (or yogurt), BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt or sour cream, milk, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Adjust to taste and refrigerate while you prep the rest.
- Add a pinch of cayenne if you like it spicier!
3. Assemble the Salad
- Begin with a base of chopped romaine.
- Layer with tomatoes, corn, black beans, onions, avocado, cheese, and sliced chicken.
- Drizzle with your creamy barbecue ranch.
- Garnish with herbs, tortilla strips, or jalapeños as preferred.
Customize Your Spicy BBQ Ranch Salad
Feel free to tweak it your way:
- Swap romaine for baby spinach or kale
- Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken for a vegetarian version
- Add jalapeños or chipotle for an extra spicy punch
- Try Greek yogurt-based ranch for a healthier dressing
Pro Tips from Famous Chefs
“Marinate the chicken overnight if possible. It locks in moisture and enhances the smoky-spicy flavor.” Chef Bobby Flay
“Always rest your chicken after grilling it keeps it juicy and easy to slice.” Chef Ina Garten
“For extra crunch, toss in crushed tortilla chips just before serving!” Chef Rachael Ray
What to Serve With BBQ Ranch?
- Chilled Watermelon Wedges – A cooling balance to the spice
- Mini Cornbread Muffins – Southern-style comfort in every bite
- Lime Sparkling Water or Margarita – Keep it refreshing!
Final Thoughts
Spicy BBQ chicken ranch salad is a flavorful, delicious meal that’s as simple to prepare as it is to enjoy. With its smoky chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh, crunchy garnishes, this dish is destined to become a kitchen staple.
I hope you enjoy the recipe and try it at home; do let us know in the comments area.
FAQS
1. How to make barbecue ranch salad?
Toss lettuce, grilled BBQ chicken, corn, black beans, tomatoes, and cheese with a BBQ-ranch dressing.
2. What goes in BBQ chicken salad?
Common ingredients include BBQ chicken, romaine, black beans, corn, red onion, avocado, and tortilla strips.
3. What to eat with spicy barbecue chicken?
Serve it with cooling sides like coleslaw, cornbread, mac and cheese, or a creamy potato salad.
4. Does barbecue sauce go with ranch?
Yes! BBQ and ranch make a deliciously tangy-sweet combo often used in wraps, salads, and dips.
