Healthy BBQ Chicken Chickpea Salad

Healthy BBQ chicken chickpea salad came into my life on a warm afternoon when I needed a filling lunch that didn’t require turning on the oven. I had leftover grilled chicken and a can of chickpeas in the pantry so I tossed them into a big bowl with fresh veggies and a drizzle of BBQ sauce. One bite and I was hooked—it was hearty and refreshing all at once.

Now it’s one of my go-to salads whenever I want something nutritious but crave big flavor. The smoky BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the sweetness of corn and tomatoes and the chickpeas add a creamy texture that makes every bite feel complete. It’s colorful bold and so easy to make.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Grilled chicken breast – Sliced and glazed with BBQ sauce for smoky savory flavor.
• Chickpeas – Creamy and full of plant-based protein they add heartiness to the salad.
• Romaine lettuce – Crunchy and fresh it forms the perfect leafy base.
• Cherry tomatoes – Juicy and sweet for a bright contrast.
• Corn – Adds color and a natural sweetness that balances the BBQ.
• Black beans – Boosts the protein and gives a rich earthy element.
• Red onion – A bit of sharpness to keep the salad lively.
• BBQ sauce – Ties everything together with a sweet smoky finish.
• Olive oil lemon juice salt pepper – Simple ingredients to enhance freshness.
• Tools You’ll Need
• Cutting board and knife – For slicing chicken and chopping fresh veggies.
• Mixing bowl – To toss the salad evenly and combine ingredients well.
• Tongs or salad spoon – For serving and mixing without bruising the greens.
• Can opener – To open chickpeas and black beans.
• Small bowl and whisk – Optional if making a light dressing with olive oil and lemon juice.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

I slice my grilled chicken into thin strips and drizzle it generously with BBQ sauce. If I’m using leftover chicken I warm it slightly to help the sauce stick better.

Step 2: Rinse the Chickpeas and Beans

I drain and rinse the chickpeas and black beans well then pat them dry. This keeps the salad from getting soggy and helps the other flavors shine.

Step 3: Chop the Veggies

I slice the cherry tomatoes in half dice the red onion and chop the romaine into bite-sized pieces. If I’m using fresh corn I boil it for a few minutes and cut it off the cob—but canned corn works too.

Step 4: Build the Salad

In a large mixing bowl I combine the lettuce tomatoes corn chickpeas black beans and red onion. I give it a light toss then top it with the BBQ chicken slices.

Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch

I drizzle a little more BBQ sauce over the top and if I want a lighter feel I whisk olive oil and lemon juice together and drizzle that too. Then I serve it up fresh and cold!

Tips

I sometimes add diced avocado for extra creaminess.

You can grill the chicken fresh or use store-bought rotisserie in a pinch.

If serving for a party keep the dressing on the side so the greens stay crisp.

Ways to Serve

Serve it as a main dish salad for lunch or dinner.

Wrap it in a tortilla for a hearty BBQ chicken salad wrap.

Make mini versions in cups for party appetizers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Healthy BBQ Chicken Chickpea Salad ahead of time?

Yes! I usually prep everything ahead and store it in separate containers. Combine just before serving for the freshest texture.

What BBQ sauce works best for Healthy BBQ Chicken Chickpea Salad?

I like using a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce but spicy or honey BBQ works great too depending on your taste.

Can I use canned chicken for Healthy BBQ Chicken Chickpea Salad?

Yes you can! Just shred it and toss it in BBQ sauce before adding to the salad.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this healthy BBQ chicken chickpea salad a spot in your weekly rotation! It’s bright filling and packed with bold flavor—and it’s so easy to throw together. Let me know how you customize yours or if you add your own twist!

Happy Cooking!

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