Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Barbecue Chicken Ranch Salad

Ready for something new, healthy, yet filling? I think this salad fits the bill. This is my own version of similar recipes I’ve seen and tried. Of course you can add your favorite ingredients; one restaurant where I tried this salad topped the dish with onion ring bits. It was delicious, but not so healthy!


Ingredients:
One head of lettuce, cleaned and chopped
(or two bags of salad mix)
1 C. frozen corn, prepared
1 tomato, chopped
1 can black beans, drained
juice of one lime
1 1/2-2 C. cheddar cheese, shredded
4 chicken breasts, thawed
salt and pepper
1/2 C. barbecue sauce
Ranch dressing
Optional ingredients: chopped mushrooms, cilantro, green onion, cucumber, red bell pepper, croutons or tortilla strips

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Place chicken in a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and drizzle with the barbecue sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes, or until done. Shred the chicken.
Evenly distribute the ingredients on four dishes. Plate up the lettuce and layer with chicken, beans, corn and tomatoes. Add croutons or tortilla strips and top with cheese. Squeeze lime juice on top and add ranch dressing to your taste.

Angel's Tip: This can also be made in a big bowl if you prefer - I like stacking the ingredients.