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zupas bbq chicken salad recipe

Zupas BBQ Chicken Salad Recipe

A fresh and flavorful copycat Zupas BBQ chicken salad made with grilled chicken, crisp greens, black beans, corn, and creamy BBQ ranch dressing.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
5 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course, Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Salad Ingredients
  • 1 large head Romaine or red-leaf lettuce chopped
  • 2 Boneless chicken breasts grilled and sliced
  • 1 cup Corn fresh or frozen, warmed
  • 1 can (15 oz) Black beans rinsed and drained
  • 2–3 Roma tomatoes diced
  • ½ cup Red onion finely chopped
  • 1 cup Shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
  • ½ cup Tortilla chip strips
  • Fresh cilantro optional
BBQ Ranch Dressing Ingredients
  • ½ cup Ranch dressing
  • ¼ cup BBQ sauce adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp Lime juice optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Grill pan or skillet
  • Mixing bowls (small + large)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups

Method
 

  1. Season chicken breasts with salt and black pepper. Grill or pan-cook over medium heat for 5–8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and toss with BBQ sauce.
  2. While the chicken rests, chop lettuce, dice tomatoes and onion, rinse and drain black beans, and warm the corn.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and lime juice until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Add lettuce to a large bowl. Top with chicken, corn, beans, tomatoes, onion, and cheese.
  5. Sprinkle tortilla strips on top. Drizzle with BBQ ranch dressing and toss gently just before serving.

Notes

  • Add dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp.
  • For a lighter version, use light ranch or Greek yogurt ranch.
  • Store salad components separately for best meal-prep results.
  • This salad keeps well for up to 3 days when stored properly.