I worked the same office job for four summers in a row during college, working on campus to coordinate the housing and meals for all the hundreds of summer camps and conferences that stayed in the dorms. With only three of us in that office, it was really difficult to stay ahead of things as it seemed like every time we turned around we had to put out another “fire” instead of working to prepare for the incoming camps. Needless to say, summer was a very stressful time in that office! But I do have fond memories of the people I worked with. On Fridays, we often ordered delivery from a local restaurant and all three of us would always get Barbecue Chicken Salads. We’d shut the door, ignore the phones, sit around the conference table, and eat our salads for just a few minutes of relative peace and quiet.
One day, I had a “duh” moment and realized it wouldn’t be very difficult to recreate my own Barbecue Chicken Salad – just make a salad, top it with french fries and shredded mozzarella cheese, then slice up some grilled barbecue chicken over the top. SO easy!
When I’m making two salads (one for me and one for my hubby) we usually only grill one large chicken breast – with a big salad, half a chicken breast is more than enough for each of us.
No need to marinate the chicken or anything…in the last few minutes of cooking, just brush the chicken breast with your favorite barbecue sauce.
In the meantime, make some fries however you’d like. (I prefer seasoned fries and usually just make them in the oven.)
Top with shredded cheese (I use mozzarella, or sometimes monterey jack), then add your sliced chicken on top. I like my salad with ranch dressing, and my husband doesn’t use any dressing at all – just a little extra barbecue sauce.
Serve it up with a slice of garlic toast, and you’ve got an easy and delicious meal! (And a great bonus – no pots or pans to wash!)
Like this idea? Check out some other inspired recipes and reviews at the unOriginal Mom Winner’s Circle!
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This looks incredible! I think I may have found a salad that my husband will actually love!! How have I never thought of fries on a salad?! Its brilliant!
This looks absolutely delicious! I can’t wait to give it a try! I’m your newest follower from the Pin Junkie Friday Link Party. I would love it if you would stop by and share your recipe at my weekly link party too! Have a wonderful weekend!
-Amy
Looks fabulous! Thanks for sharing at my Pin Me party! Following your social media!
Awesome salad Meredith. I love a good BBQ chicken salad, haven’t see fries in it before but its worth a try. :) Just wanted to let you know I am featuring you this week at Show Stopper Saturdays. :)
[…] Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad by Meredith @ Unoriginal Mom […]
What a delightful story about your summer office job! It sounds like those Barbecue Chicken Salads were a well-deserved treat amidst all the chaos. Your homemade version of the salad sounds delicious and simple to make. I love the idea of adding french fries for a unique twist. Thanks for sharing this easy and tasty recipe!
Wow, what a delightful story about your summer job and the special Barbecue Chicken Salad tradition! It’s heartwarming how simple moments of peace and camaraderie can make challenging times more bearable. Your DIY salad recipe sounds delicious and easy to make. Thanks for sharing this wonderful memory and recipe inspiration! Looking forward to trying it out.