When it comes to redefining classic comfort food with a daring twist, California Pizza Kitchen never fails to impress. Among their standout creations, the BBQ Chicken Salad emerges as a vibrant celebration of bold flavors and fresh ingredients, offering a refreshing escape from the ordinary. This dish artfully blends smoky barbecue chicken, crisp greens, and tangy dressings into a harmonious bite that excites the palate and satisfies the soul. Join us as we delve into the irresistible components that make California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad a must-try masterpiece for anyone seeking a flavorful adventure in every forkful.
Discover the bold flavors of California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad, where smoky BBQ sauce meets crisp greens and tender grilled chicken for a perfect balance of taste and texture, to the crunchy tortilla strips and garden-fresh salad bed, this recipe invites you to recreate a restaurant favorite in your own kitchen with ease and flair.
Prep and Cook Time
Readiness: 15 minutes
Cooking: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4 generous portions
Difficulty Level
Easy to Medium – perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup California Pizza Kitchen-style BBQ sauce (see note below for homemade version)
- 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, baby spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (grilled or steamed)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup crispy tortilla strips or baked tortilla chips
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: 2 tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt for drizzle
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with half of the BBQ sauce. Let rest for 10 minutes to absorb those deep smoky flavors.
- Grill the chicken: Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Brush with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Rest and slice: Transfer chicken to a cutting board; allow to rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. This ensures juicy tenderness and easier bites.
- Prepare salad base: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, corn kernels, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix.
- Dress the salad: Add the remaining BBQ sauce along with a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a drizzle of olive oil. Toss lightly to coat evenly but avoid wilting the greens.
- Assemble the salad: Arrange the sliced BBQ chicken atop the dressed greens. Sprinkle with crispy tortilla strips, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro for vibrancy and crunch.
- optional finishing touch: Add dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt to introduce a cooling contrast to the bold sauce.
- Serve immediately: Plate with extra lime wedges on the side for a zesty lift.
Chef’s Notes & Tips for Success for BBQ Chicken Salad
- Signature BBQ sauce: For that authentic California Pizza Kitchen experience, a sauce blend of sweet molasses, smoky chipotle peppers, garlic, and tangy apple cider vinegar works wonders. Feel free to try this trusted homemade BBQ sauce recipe to replicate that balance.
- Customize your crunch: Swap tortilla strips for spiced pepitas or toasted nuts for a different texture that still offers satisfying crunch.
- Greens variety: Use a combination of peppery arugula, hearty kale, and creamy butter lettuce for added complexity.
- Make-ahead: grill chicken and prep salad components separately up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble just before serving to keep textures fresh.
- Vegetarian twist: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh tossed in BBQ sauce for a tasty plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this vibrant BBQ Chicken Salad in large, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful layers. Garnish with extra cilantro and smoked paprika for appeal. Pair with warm cornbread or grilled flatbread for a wholesome meal. A chilled glass of sparkling lemonade or a light, fruity rosé perfectly balances the smoky barbecue notes and enlivens the palate.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
For more inspiration on bold, flavor-packed salads, check out our Southwest grilled Steak Salad recipe-a delicious complement to this BBQ classic.
Q&A
Q&A: Discover the Bold Flavors of California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad
Q1: What makes California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad stand out from typical salads?
A1: Unlike your average leafy green dish, CPK’s BBQ Chicken Salad is a vibrant fusion of smoky, tangy, and sweet flavors. Grilled BBQ chicken serves as the star, perfectly complemented by crisp greens, crunchy tortilla strips, zesty red onions, and a drizzle of creamy, smoky dressing-creating a bold flavor profile that excites every bite.
Q2: What ingredients contribute to the salad’s signature taste?
A2: The salad marries tender BBQ-glazed chicken with fresh mixed greens, roasted corn, black beans, diced tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese. The addition of crispy tortilla strips provides texture, while a smoky chipotle ranch dressing ties all the components together with a delightful kick.
Q3: is this dish suitable for those watching their calorie intake?
A3: While the BBQ Chicken Salad balances nutrient-rich veggies and lean protein, the flavorful barbecue sauce and dressing add richness and calories. Though, CPK offers options to customize your salad-such as requesting dressing on the side or opting for grilled chicken without sauce-to make it lighter while still savoring the bold taste.
Q4: How does the BBQ chicken Salad reflect California Pizza Kitchen’s culinary philosophy?
A4: CPK is known for inventive, globally inspired flavors paired with fresh, approachable ingredients. This salad exemplifies that by combining Southwestern BBQ influences with fresh produce, vibrant textures, and a health-conscious approach, delivering a playful yet balanced dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Q5: Can the BBQ Chicken Salad be enjoyed year-round, or is it seasonal?
A5: Thanks to its fresh yet hearty ingredients, the BBQ Chicken Salad is a versatile option on CPK’s menu any time of the year. its blend of smoky BBQ and crisp vegetables makes it a perfect summertime treat, yet hearty enough to enjoy as a comforting meal during cooler months.
Q6: How should one savor this salad to fully appreciate its flavors?
A6: To experience the salad’s full flavor spectrum, it’s best to mix each component thoroughly-combining the saucy chicken, crunchy tortilla strips, and fresh veggies-so every mouthful bursts with smoky, tangy, creamy, and crisp notes. Pair it with a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water to cleanse the palate between bites.
Q7: Are there any suggested pairings or drinks that complement the BBQ Chicken Salad?
A7: the salad’s bold, smoky flavors pair wonderfully with light, crisp beverages. Try a citrusy white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a craft lager with subtle malt sweetness. For non-alcoholic options, a lime Agua Fresca or iced green tea brightens the experience without overpowering the salad’s complex taste.
Whether you’re craving a salad with serious flavor or simply want to try something fresh and exciting, California Pizza Kitchen’s BBQ Chicken Salad invites you to indulge in a delicious blend of bold tastes and satisfying textures-a perfect bite of California’s culinary creativity.
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