Why You’ll Love It
This recipe combines the classic flavors of BBQ with the patriotic colors of red, white, and blue, making it a standout at any Fourth of July celebration. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy vegetables, and tangy dressing is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.
Quick Facts
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Serving Size: 6-8 people
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 cup mixed greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup crumbled blue cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red bell peppers
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Grill the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
- Prepare the Salad:
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, and diced red bell peppers.
- Make the Dressing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
- Add the BBQ sauce to the dressing and mix well.
- Assemble the Salad:
- Add the sliced chicken to the salad bowl.
- Drizzle the BBQ dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for garnish.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this salad as a main course or as a side dish at your Fourth of July BBQ.
- Pair it with some crispy fried onion rings or grilled corn on the cob for a complete summer meal.
- For a fun twist, serve the salad in small mason jars for a patriotic picnic.
Tips for Customization
- Add Some Heat: If you like spicy food, add some diced jalapeños to the salad for an extra kick.
- Change Up the Cheese: Swap the blue cheese with feta or goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Vegan: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a vegan version.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 5g
FAQs
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and salad ingredients ahead of time. However, assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh.
Q: How can I make this recipe more patriotic?
A: Add some red, white, and blue garnishes like strawberries, white grapes, or blueberries to make it even more festive.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for a large crowd?
A: Absolutely! Simply double or triple the ingredients based on the number of guests you’re hosting. With this Red, White, and Blue BBQ Chicken Salad, you’ll be the star of your Fourth of July celebration. Enjoy the fireworks, the company of loved ones, and the delicious flavors of this patriotic dish!
