Grilled BBQ blue cheese chicken salad is a bold and savory summer dish that combines smoky grilled chicken glazed with tangy barbecue sauce, the rich creaminess of blue cheese and freshness of crisp greens. This hearty salad offers a satisfying balance of flavor and texture - from the crunch of fresh vegetables to the slight char of grilled meat. Perfect for a light dinner or show-stopping lunch, it¡¯s a vibrant way to enjoy BBQ without the heaviness of traditional barbecue meals.
INGREDIENTS
For the Chicken
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
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For the Salad
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6 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, arugula, and baby spinach)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives
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For Dressing
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3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
Salt and pepper, to taste
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INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Marinate the Chicken
Rub the chicken breast with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Brush generously with barbecue sauce, and let sit for at least 15 minutes or up to two hours in the fridge.
2. Grill the Chicken
Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes a side, brushing with additional BBQ sauce as it cooks. Remove from grill once the internal temperature reaches 165¡ãF (74¡ãC). Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt and pepper until well-combined.
4. Assemble the salad
On a large platter or in a salad bowl, layer the mixed greens, cherry tomato, cucumber, red onion and avocado. Top with sliced, grilled chicken and crumbled blue cheese.
5. Drizzle, & Serve
Drizzle dressing over the salad and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chive. Serve immediately, while the chicken is still warm.
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Tips
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For added crunch, toss in some candied pecans or crispy bacon bits.
If you prefer a milder cheese, swap blue cheese for feta or gorgonzola.
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