Dinner

BBQ Chicken, Pear & Gorgonzola Salad Recipe

Bymia larkspur December 3, 2025December 3, 2025

Introduction

This BBQ Chicken, Pear & Gorgonzola Salad is a delightful mix of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The combination of tender BBQ chicken, crisp pears, and creamy Gorgonzola makes every bite exciting and satisfying.

A fresh salad presented on a white plate with a scalloped edge, layered with crisp green lettuce as the base. On top of the lettuce are slices of pale yellow pear arranged in a circular pattern, with thin strips of purple-red onion scattered evenly. Small chunks of white cheese and light brown chopped walnuts are sprinkled generously over the entire salad, adding texture and color contrast. The whole dish rests on a white marbled surface, enhancing the fresh and natural look of the salad. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 romaine lettuce heart
1/2 cup shredded BBQ chicken
1/2 pear, sliced
1/4 cup crumbled Gorgonzola cheese
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
1/3 cup olive oil
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons honey
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon rubbed sage

Instructions

Step 1: Add the romaine lettuce to a shallow bowl or large plate. Top evenly with shredded BBQ chicken, sliced pear, chopped walnuts, and crumbled Gorgonzola cheese.
Step 2: Prepare the dressing by combining olive oil, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, onion powder, and rubbed sage in a small jar or container with a lid. Shake well to mix.
Step 3: Drizzle the dressing over the salad as desired and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to the salad.
Swap Gorgonzola for blue cheese or goat cheese if preferred.
Add thinly sliced red onion or dried cranberries for added texture and sweetness.
If you don’t have BBQ chicken, grilled or roasted chicken with BBQ sauce works well too.

Storage

Store any leftover salad components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the dressing refrigerated and shake well before using. Assemble the salad just before serving to keep it fresh and crisp.

How to Serve

A white plate holds a fresh salad with several layers, starting with a bed of dark green leafy lettuce at the bottom, topped with shredded orange chicken pieces. On top of this are slices of light green pear arranged in a scattered pattern. Crumbled white cheese is spread over the pears, mixed with small pieces of chopped walnuts that add a rough texture. Thin slices of purple onion are sprinkled across the salad, providing a pop of color. The salad appears lightly seasoned with black pepper. In the background, a small glass jar filled with golden honey sits on a white marbled surface next to a green pear. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of lettuce?

Yes, you can substitute romaine with baby spinach, arugula, or mixed greens based on your preference.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

This salad is best assembled fresh to maintain the crunch of the lettuce and pears. You can prepare the dressing and chicken ahead of time, then combine everything just before eating.