For an extra layer of flavor, try grilling the chicken before cubing it for the salad. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon bits can be used, but freshly cooked bacon provides superior flavor. Adjust the amount of barbeque sauce and liquid smoke to your personal taste preference. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
Lemon BBQ Chicken Salad
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PREP TIME30 mins
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COOK TIME0 mins
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TOTAL TIME2 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING4 People
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VIEWS13
Brighten your day with this vibrant Lemon BBQ Chicken Salad, a delightful fusion of smoky barbeque and zesty lemon. Perfect as a refreshing light meal, a standout addition to any potluck, or an elegant dish for a sophisticated lunch. It's also a clever way to transform leftover chicken and rice into something truly special.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate28 g
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Cholesterol79 mg
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Fiber1 g
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Protein23 g
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Saturated Fat10 g
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Sodium1093 mg
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Sugar3 g
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Fat56 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
Step
5 mins
In a large mixing bowl, gently toss the cubed chicken with the fresh lemon juice. Ensure each piece is lightly coated to enhance the flavor. (Prep time: 5 minutes)
02
Step
10 mins
In a separate bowl, combine the cold cooked rice, thinly sliced celery, sliced pimiento-stuffed olives, and 1/4 cup of the crumbled cooked bacon. Mix well, then add this mixture to the chicken. Toss gently to combine all ingredients. (Prep time: 10 minutes)
03
Step
3 mins
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, barbeque sauce, and hickory-flavored liquid smoke until smooth and creamy. (Prep time: 3 minutes)
04
Step
2 mins
Pour the mayonnaise mixture over the chicken and rice mixture. Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Be careful not to overmix, preserving the texture. (Prep time: 2 minutes)
05
Step
1 mins
Transfer the salad to a serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining 2 tablespoons of bacon over the top. (Prep time: 1 minute)
06
Step
2 hrs
Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully. (Refrigeration time: 2+ hours)
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Yasmeen Wisoky
Jun 28, 2025This recipe is a lifesaver! I had leftover chicken and rice, and this salad transformed it into a gourmet meal. The lemon and BBQ flavors are fantastic together!
Ignatius Jacobson
Jun 21, 2025I found the liquid smoke a bit strong for my taste. Next time, I'll start with half the amount and add more if needed. Otherwise, it's a delicious and easy salad to make.
Arnaldo Murazik
Jun 3, 2025I made this for a potluck and it was a huge hit! Everyone asked for the recipe. I used smoked chicken and it added another dimension of flavor.
Giovanny Tromp
May 29, 2025Excellent recipe! I added some diced red onion and bell pepper for extra crunch and color. It was a big success!