If you love the smoky, tangy flavor of BBQ and the creamy goodness of chicken salad, this Chicken Salad Chick BBQ Recipe is a must-try! It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, bold barbecue sauce, and just the right amount of crunch. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or a party favorite, this copycat recipe delivers. Keep reading to discover the simple steps, expert tips, and delicious variations to make this dish just like the restaurant—maybe even better!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Salad Chick BBQ Recipe
This copycat Chicken Salad Chick BBQ recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves a creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet chicken salad. Here’s why you’ll love making and eating this dish:
Easy to Make
With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful chicken salad in no time. No complicated techniques—just mix, chill, and enjoy!
Packed with Bold BBQ Flavor
Unlike traditional chicken salad, this version is infused with the rich, smoky sweetness of barbecue sauce, making it stand out from the rest. Every bite is packed with a delicious balance of tangy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve it as a sandwich, on a bed of lettuce, or with crackers for a quick and satisfying meal. It’s great for lunches, picnics, parties, or meal prep for the week.
Customizable to Your Taste
Love extra crunch? Add more celery or pecans. Prefer a spicier kick? Use a smoky chipotle BBQ sauce. This recipe is easy to tweak to match your flavor preferences.
A Healthier Alternative
This BBQ chicken salad can be made lighter by using Greek yogurt or a light mayo instead of regular mayonnaise. It’s also naturally high in protein, making it a nutritious choice.
Just Like the Restaurant – or Even Better!
If you’re a fan of Chicken Salad Chick’s Barbie-Q Chicken Salad, you’ll love this homemade version. It captures the same creamy texture and smoky flavor but allows you to control the ingredients for a fresher, more personalized taste.
Ingredients Needed for Chicken Salad Chick BBQ Recipe
To recreate the Chicken Salad Chick Barbie-Q Chicken Salad, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in achieving the perfect balance of smokiness, creaminess, and crunch.
Cooked Chicken (2 Cups, Shredded or Chopped)
The base of this salad is tender, juicy chicken. You can use:
- Rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor
- Grilled chicken for a smoky touch
- Boiled or baked chicken breast for a leaner option
Barbecue Sauce (¼ Cup)
This ingredient gives the salad its signature smoky-sweet taste. Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your preference:
- Sweet BBQ Sauce for a mild, classic flavor
- Smoky or Spicy BBQ Sauce for a bolder kick
- Honey BBQ for extra sweetness
Mayonnaise (½ Cup)
Mayonnaise creates the creamy texture that makes this salad rich and satisfying. If you want a lighter version, substitute with:
- Greek yogurt for a tangy, protein-packed option
- Half mayo, half sour cream for a balanced taste
Celery (¼ Cup, Finely Diced)
Celery adds a fresh crunch, balancing out the creamy texture. Dice it finely to blend well with the other ingredients.
Onion (¼ Cup, Finely Minced – Optional)
For extra flavor, finely minced red or yellow onion adds a slight bite. If you prefer a milder taste, soak the chopped onions in cold water for 10 minutes before adding.
Smoked Paprika (½ Teaspoon – Optional)
Enhance the smoky BBQ flavor with a dash of smoked paprika. This adds depth without overpowering the salad.
Salt & Black Pepper (To Taste)
Seasoning is key! Add salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance all the flavors.
Chopped Pecans (¼ Cup – Optional, for Crunch)
If you love a nutty crunch, pecans are a fantastic addition. They add texture and a hint of sweetness that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Shredded Cheese (¼ Cup – Optional, for Extra Flavor)
Some versions of this salad include shredded cheddar or Colby Jack cheese for a richer taste. Feel free to add if you love cheesy goodness!
Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
- Make It Healthier: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo and opt for grilled chicken breast.
- Make It Sweeter: Use a honey-based BBQ sauce or add a teaspoon of honey.
- Make It Crunchier: Add extra celery or even some chopped apples for sweetness.
Essential Equipment for Making BBQ Chicken Salad
Making this Chicken Salad Chick BBQ recipe is easy, and you don’t need any fancy kitchen gadgets. However, having the right tools will make the process smoother and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need:
Mixing Bowl
A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients. Choose a deep bowl to prevent spills while stirring.
Cutting Board & Sharp Knife
You’ll need a sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife to chop the cooked chicken, dice celery, and mince onions. A sharp knife ensures clean cuts and faster prep.
Forks or Hand Mixer (for Shredding Chicken)
If you’re using cooked chicken breast, you can shred it easily with:
- Two forks: Pull the chicken apart for a classic shredded texture.
- Hand mixer: A quick and effortless way to shred large amounts of chicken.
Measuring Cups & Spoons
Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors. You’ll need measuring cups for the chicken, mayonnaise, and BBQ sauce, along with teaspoons for seasonings.
Spatula or Wooden Spoon
A rubber spatula or wooden spoon helps mix the ingredients thoroughly without breaking up the chicken too much.
Airtight Container (for Storage)
If you’re making this salad ahead of time or saving leftovers, store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Glass or BPA-free plastic containers work best.
Optional Tools for Faster Prep
- Food Processor: If you prefer a finer texture, a food processor can quickly chop the chicken and mix everything together.
- Grater: If you’re adding cheese, a cheese grater will help you get fine, even shreds.
Why Having the Right Equipment Matters
Using the right tools will save you time, keep your kitchen organized, and help achieve the perfect consistency for your BBQ chicken salad. With everything ready, it’s time to move on to the fun part—assembling the salad step by step!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make BBQ Chicken Salad
Now that you have all your ingredients and equipment ready, it’s time to put everything together! Follow this simple step-by-step guide to make a creamy, flavorful BBQ Chicken Salad Chick-style dish.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
If using rotisserie or pre-cooked chicken, remove the skin and bones, then chop or shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. If cooking fresh chicken, boil, bake, or grill it until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let it cool before shredding or chopping.
- Pro Tip: For extra smoky flavor, grill the chicken and brush it with BBQ sauce while cooking.
Step 2: Chop the Vegetables
Dice the celery into small pieces for a fresh crunch. If adding onion, finely mince it for a milder taste.
- Pro Tip: If raw onions are too strong, soak them in cold water for 10 minutes before adding them to the salad.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- BBQ sauce (adjust amount based on your taste)
- Smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper (to enhance flavor)
Whisk until smooth and fully blended.
- Pro Tip: Start with less BBQ sauce and mayo, then add more as needed to reach your preferred consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the shredded or chopped chicken to the bowl. Toss in the diced celery and minced onions (if using). Pour the dressing over the mixture and stir until everything is well-coated.
- Pro Tip: Gently fold the ingredients together to keep the chicken from getting mushy.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
Stir in chopped pecans for extra crunch. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese for a richer flavor. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Pro Tip: Let the flavors meld by chilling the salad for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your BBQ Chicken Salad is now ready to serve! Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- As a sandwich: Use toasted bread, croissants, or wraps.
- On a bed of lettuce: A great low-carb option.
- With crackers or pita chips: Perfect for snacking.
- In a stuffed avocado or tomato: A creative, healthy twist!
Tips & Tricks for the Best BBQ Chicken Salad
Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Salad Chick-style dish is easy, but a few expert tips can take it to the next level. From ingredient swaps to flavor-boosting tricks, these tips will ensure your chicken salad is creamy, flavorful, and perfectly balanced every time.
Use the Right Type of Chicken
- Rotisserie Chicken: Offers a juicy, well-seasoned base with minimal prep.
- Grilled Chicken: Adds a smoky depth that complements the BBQ flavor.
- Boiled or Baked Chicken Breast: A leaner option that absorbs the dressing well.
Tip: If using boiled chicken, add a little salt and garlic to the water for extra flavor.
Shred vs. Chop – Choose Your Texture
- Shredded Chicken: Creates a soft, blended texture, just like the Chicken Salad Chick version.
- Chopped Chicken: Gives a chunkier bite for those who prefer more texture.
Tip: Use a hand mixer or food processor to shred chicken quickly.
Balance the BBQ Sauce and Mayo
Too much BBQ sauce can overpower the salad, making it overly sweet. Start with ¼ cup and add more if needed. Use a 50/50 mayo-to-BBQ sauce ratio for a well-balanced, creamy consistency. Want it lighter? Swap half the mayo for Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Tip: Choose a BBQ sauce that matches your taste preference—honey BBQ for sweetness, smoky BBQ for depth, or spicy BBQ for heat.
Enhance the Flavor with Seasonings
- Smoked Paprika: Enhances the BBQ smokiness.
- Garlic Powder: Adds subtle depth.
- Cayenne Pepper: A pinch gives it a spicy kick.
- Salt & Pepper: Always adjust to taste after mixing.
Tip: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Add Extra Crunch & Texture
- Celery: Provides freshness and crunch.
- Pecans or Walnuts: A nutty contrast to the creamy dressing.
- Crispy Bacon Bits: For a smoky, salty bite.
- Red Onion: Adds a slight sharpness—soak in water first for a milder taste.
Tip: Mix in the crunchy ingredients just before serving to keep them from getting soggy.
Make It Healthier Without Losing Flavor
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a protein boost.
- Opt for low-sugar BBQ sauce to cut back on added sugars.
- Serve it over lettuce or in a lettuce wrap instead of bread for a low-carb option.
Tip: If using Greek yogurt, add a teaspoon of lemon juice for extra tanginess.
How to Fix Common Issues
- Too Dry?: Add a little more mayo or BBQ sauce, one tablespoon at a time.
- Too Wet?: Mix in more chicken or refrigerate longer to thicken.
- Lacking Flavor?: Add a pinch of salt, a dash of smoked paprika, or a little more BBQ sauce.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Salad
Once your BBQ Chicken Salad Chick copycat is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! This versatile dish can be served in many ways, making it perfect for any meal, snack, or gathering. Here are some of the best ways to serve and enjoy this delicious, smoky, and creamy chicken salad.
Classic Sandwich
A BBQ chicken salad sandwich is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to enjoy this dish.
Best Bread Choices:
- Buttery croissants for a soft and flaky bite
- Toasted brioche buns for a hint of sweetness
- Whole wheat bread for a healthier option
- Texas toast for a thick, hearty bite
Pro Tip: Toasting the bread slightly will add a nice crunch and prevent sogginess.
BBQ Chicken Salad Wrap
For a portable, mess-free option, wrap the salad in a soft tortilla.
Wrap Ideas:
- Use flour tortillas for a classic wrap.
- Try spinach or tomato wraps for added color and flavor.
- Go low-carb by using a lettuce wrap instead!
Pro Tip: Add extra toppings like shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or avocado for more flavor.
On a Bed of Lettuce (Low-Carb Option)
For a healthier, gluten-free meal, serve BBQ chicken salad on a fresh bed of greens.
Best Greens to Use:
- Crisp romaine lettuce
- Peppery arugula
- Mild and soft butter lettuce
- Classic iceberg lettuce for crunch
Pro Tip: Drizzle a little extra BBQ sauce or a light vinaigrette over the salad for extra moisture and flavor.
With Crackers or Pita Chips
BBQ chicken salad makes a fantastic dip! Scoop it up with:
- Buttery Ritz crackers
- Crunchy pita chips
- Thinly sliced baguette pieces
- Keto-friendly crackers for a low-carb snack
Pro Tip: Serve it chilled for a refreshing, creamy snack at parties or gatherings.
Stuffed Avocado or Tomato
For a fresh and unique twist, hollow out an avocado or tomato and fill it with BBQ chicken salad.
Why it Works:
- Avocados add creaminess and healthy fats.
- Tomatoes provide a juicy, tangy contrast to the smoky BBQ flavor.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra pop of freshness.
BBQ Chicken Salad Sliders
Perfect for parties, serve the chicken salad on mini Hawaiian rolls for an irresistible bite-sized treat.
Why Hawaiian Rolls?
Their slight sweetness complements the smoky BBQ flavor perfectly.
Pro Tip: Toast the buns lightly and add a slice of cheddar cheese for extra indulgence.
As a Protein-Packed Bowl
For a filling meal, build a BBQ chicken salad bowl with:
- Base: Quinoa, rice, or cauliflower rice
- Toppings: Black beans, shredded cheese, corn, avocado, and fresh cilantro
Pro Tip: Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce or a squeeze of lime for extra zest!
Breakfast Twist: BBQ Chicken Salad on Toast
Spread the salad on toasted sourdough or whole grain bread for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
Pro Tip: Add a fried or poached egg on top for extra protein and richness.
Possible Recipe Variations
One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Salad Chick copycat recipe is how versatile it is! You can easily tweak the ingredients to match your dietary needs, personal taste, or just to try something new. Here are some delicious variations to keep your BBQ chicken salad exciting every time you make it.
Spicy BBQ Chicken Salad
If you love a little heat, add some spicy elements to kick things up a notch.
Ways to Add Heat:
- Use spicy BBQ sauce instead of regular.
- Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- Mix in diced jalapeños for extra spice and crunch.
- Add a splash of hot sauce (like Tabasco or Sriracha) to the dressing.
Pro Tip: Balance out the heat by adding a little extra mayo or a drizzle of honey.
Healthier, Low-Calorie Version
Want a lighter, protein-packed version without sacrificing flavor?
Healthy Swaps:
- Replace mayo with Greek yogurt or a mix of half mayo, half yogurt.
- Use grilled or baked chicken breast instead of rotisserie for fewer calories.
- Opt for low-sugar BBQ sauce to cut down on unnecessary sugar.
- Serve it over lettuce wraps or cucumber slices instead of bread.
Pro Tip: Add chopped apples or grapes for a naturally sweet contrast.
Extra Crunchy BBQ Chicken Salad
If you love added texture, mix in some crunchy ingredients for an extra bite.
Best Crunchy Additions:
- Chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds
- Crispy bacon bits
- Diced bell peppers
- Crushed tortilla chips on top for a Tex-Mex twist
Pro Tip: Add these right before serving to keep them crispy!
Dairy-Free or Egg-Free Option
Need a dairy-free or egg-free version? No problem!
Substitutes:
- Use dairy-free mayonnaise (such as Vegenaise)
- Swap out mayo for mashed avocado for a creamy texture.
- Make sure your BBQ sauce is dairy-free (some brands contain hidden dairy).
Pro Tip: Mashed avocado not only replaces mayo but also adds healthy fats!
Sweet & Savory BBQ Chicken Salad
For a sweet-and-savory balance, add naturally sweet ingredients.
Great Sweet Additions:
- Chopped apples (Honeycrisp or Fuji work best)
- Red or green grapes, halved
- Dried cranberries or golden raisins
- A drizzle of honey in the dressing
Pro Tip: Sweet ingredients pair especially well with smoky BBQ sauce!
Smokier BBQ Chicken Salad
For an extra deep, smoky flavor, try these tricks:
How to Add More Smokiness:
- Use smoked paprika in the dressing.
- Add liquid smoke (½ teaspoon) to the mix.
- Opt for mesquite or hickory-smoked BBQ sauce.
- Grill the chicken with a light char before shredding.
Pro Tip: Let the salad chill for at least an hour to let the smoky flavors develop.
High-Protein Version
If you want to boost the protein in your BBQ chicken salad, add these extras:
Protein-Packed Additions:
- Chopped hard-boiled eggs
- Extra shredded chicken (up to 3 cups total)
- A scoop of cottage cheese blended into the dressing
- Pumpkin seeds or hemp seeds for plant-based protein
Pro Tip: Serve it over quinoa or black beans for a protein-packed meal!
Vegetarian or Vegan BBQ “Chicken” Salad
Want to make this recipe plant-based? Here’s how!
Vegan-Friendly Swaps:
Replace chicken with shredded jackfruit (it mimics the texture of pulled chicken). Use chickpeas or tofu as a protein base. Swap mayo for vegan mayonnaise or mashed avocado. Make sure your BBQ sauce is vegan-friendly (some contain honey or Worcestershire sauce).
Pro Tip: Sauté jackfruit or tofu with a little smoked paprika for extra flavor.
Tex-Mex BBQ Chicken Salad
For a Southwestern twist, add bold Tex-Mex flavors.
Tex-Mex Additions:
- Mix in black beans and corn for a hearty bite.
- Add diced avocado for creaminess.
- Toss in chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend.
Pro Tip: Serve it inside taco shells or mini tortillas for BBQ chicken salad tacos!
Meal-Prep Friendly BBQ Chicken Salad
Want to make this ahead for the week? Here’s how to meal prep like a pro.
Make-Ahead Tips:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Keep crunchy ingredients separate (add them just before eating).
- Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Portion into small containers for grab-and-go meals.
Pro Tip: If the salad thickens in the fridge, stir in a spoonful of mayo or BBQ sauce before serving to refresh it.
How to Store Homemade BBQ Chicken Salad
Proper storage is key to keeping your BBQ Chicken Salad Chick copycat recipe fresh, flavorful, and safe to eat. Whether you’re making it ahead for meal prep or storing leftovers, follow these tips to maintain its best quality.
How Long Does BBQ Chicken Salad Last?
- In the Refrigerator: Up to 3 to 4 days when stored properly.
- At Room Temperature: No more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.
- In the Freezer: Not recommended due to the mayonnaise-based dressing, which can separate and become watery when thawed.
Pro Tip: If you plan to store it for a few days, keep any crunchy add-ins (nuts, bacon, celery) separate and mix them in right before serving.
Best Way to Store BBQ Chicken Salad
To keep your salad fresh and prevent it from drying out or absorbing fridge odors, store it in an airtight container.
Best Containers to Use:
- Glass containers with airtight lids (helps retain freshness).
- Plastic containers with a tight seal (BPA-free options are best).
- Mason jars (great for portioning out single servings).
Pro Tip: Press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the salad before sealing the container. This minimizes air exposure and prevents drying out.
Can You Freeze BBQ Chicken Salad?
Technically, you can freeze it, but it’s not recommended because:
Mayo-based dressings tend to separate, making the texture watery and grainy when thawed. Celery and other crunchy ingredients lose their crispness.
Alternative Freezing Method:
If you want to prep ahead, freeze only the shredded BBQ chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight and mix it with fresh mayo, BBQ sauce, and other ingredients.
- Pro Tip: If you must freeze the entire salad, add an extra spoonful of mayo after thawing to refresh the texture.
How to Keep BBQ Chicken Salad from Getting Watery
After sitting in the fridge, chicken salad can sometimes release excess moisture, making it watery.
Ways to Prevent This:
- Use full-fat mayo instead of light mayo, which contains more water.
- Drain any excess liquid before serving and stir well.
- Add a little extra mayo or Greek yogurt to thicken it up if needed.
Pro Tip: If your salad is still watery, stir in a small amount of cornstarch (¼ teaspoon) to absorb excess moisture.
Can You Make BBQ Chicken Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes! In fact, making it ahead allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Best Make-Ahead Tips:
- Prepare the salad 1 day in advance for the best taste.
- Store in an airtight container and stir before serving.
- Keep crunchy toppings separate until ready to eat to maintain texture.
Pro Tip: If serving at a party, place the salad in a serving bowl over a bed of ice to keep it chilled longer.
Signs Your BBQ Chicken Salad Has Gone Bad
Always check for freshness before eating stored chicken salad.
Signs It’s Spoiled:
- Off smell: If it smells sour or unpleasant, it’s no longer safe to eat.
- Change in texture: If the dressing is separating excessively or the salad looks slimy, discard it.
- Unusual taste: If it tastes off, don’t risk eating it.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, throw it out! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Salad Chick copycat recipe is the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors, making it a delicious and versatile dish for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or dip, this homemade version lets you customize it to your taste while keeping it fresh and wholesome. With simple ingredients, easy prep, and helpful storage tips, you can make this flavorful chicken salad ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week. Try it today, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen!
FAQS
Chicken Salad Chick BBQ Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
- hand mixer or food processor to shred the chicken
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins Use 2 cups of shredded chicken if you are using rotisserie or chicken breast
- ¾ cup Duke's mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce I recommend Sweet Baby Ray's brand or a hickory barbecue sauce
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 pinch salt or to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper or to taste
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water then add the chicken tenderloins and then bring to a boil.
- Once the water is boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Cook the tenderloins for 8 to 10 minutes. Do not overcook or the chicken can become rubbery. The chicken should register at 165 degrees with a meat thermometer or you will also able to tell it is done when you shred it.
- Once the chicken tenderloins are cooked, remove it from the water and let it cool. Use a mixer or food processor to shred the chicken. I find that using a hand mixer is best because it is quicker and it helps get the chicken very fine.
- Add the mayonnaise, barbecue sauce, and seasonings to the shredded chicken. Stir well and then serve on a sandwich, crackers, or over a green salad.