BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect balance of smoky, savory flavors and fresh, vibrant crunch. Imagine tender, grilled chicken skewers brushed with a rich, smoky BBQ sauce, served over a bed of crisp, refreshing salad greens. Drizzled with a tangy BBQ dressing, this dish offers a satisfying and healthy meal that’s full of flavor without weighing you down. Whether you’re serving it at a summer BBQ, preparing it for meal prep, or craving a light yet fulfilling dinner, this salad is sure to impress.

The first time I made this, I couldn’t get over how easy it was to prepare such a flavorful, light meal. Grilling the chicken skewers was simple, and the BBQ dressing added just the right amount of tang and smokiness. When I assembled the salad, the combination of warm chicken and cold, crunchy vegetables created the perfect contrast in every bite.

What I love most about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is its versatility. You can add in your favorite veggies, like roasted corn, avocado, or even a sprinkle of cheese, to personalize the dish. It’s an ideal option for meal prepping as it holds up well in the fridge and can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or looking for a light, satisfying meal on a busy weeknight, this salad is always a hit!

Perfect for:

  • Summer dinners
  • BBQ gatherings
  • Meal prep
  • Light and healthy meals
  • Grilled chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will become your go-to salad:

  • Smoky and Savory Chicken: Grilled BBQ chicken adds a savory, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh salad ingredients.
  • Healthy and Light: A refreshing salad that’s loaded with veggies and lean protein, making it a great healthy meal option.
  • Versatile Dressing: The smoky BBQ dressing adds a tangy sweetness, but you can easily adjust it to your taste preferences.
  • Perfect for Grilling Season: This recipe is ideal for outdoor grilling or cooking on the stovetop.
  • Quick to Make: With minimal prep time, this dish is perfect for a fast yet filling dinner.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 15 minutes
  • Servings: 4 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 35g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad:

  • 1 ½ lbs chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce, plus extra for brushing
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., lettuce, spinach, arugula)
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
  • ½ avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Chicken Breast: Lean and high in protein, chicken breast is perfect for grilling and adds a satisfying texture to the salad.
  • BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs well with grilled chicken.
  • Mixed Salad Greens: A variety of fresh greens adds color, flavor, and crunch to the salad.
  • Cucumber and Bell Pepper: These crunchy veggies provide a refreshing contrast to the smoky chicken.
  • Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and texture to the salad.
  • Avocado: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

  1. Season the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of BBQ sauce. Toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Skewers:

  1. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto wooden or metal skewers, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.

Grill the Chicken:

  1. Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan: Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.

Prepare the Salad:

  1. Chop the Veggies: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad by chopping the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Slice the avocado and halve the cherry tomatoes.
  2. Combine the Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, corn, and avocado.

Assemble the Salad:

  1. Add the Chicken Skewers: Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skewers and place it on top of the salad.
  2. Top with Cheese (Optional): Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the salad for added flavor (optional).
  3. Drizzle with BBQ Dressing: Drizzle your choice of BBQ dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

How to Serve

  • Serve as a Main Dish: This hearty salad is perfect on its own for a light dinner or lunch.
  • On a Picnic or BBQ: Serve it as a refreshing side salad alongside other grilled dishes.
  • With Garlic Bread: Pair with a slice of warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
  • In a Wrap: For a portable option, wrap the salad and chicken in a tortilla for a tasty BBQ chicken wrap.

Additional Tips

  • Grilling Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
  • Marinate Longer: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes to 1 hour before grilling.
  • BBQ Sauce Variations: Try different BBQ sauces, such as spicy or honey BBQ, to customize the flavor.
  • Add Grilled Veggies: Consider adding grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus for added flavor and texture.
  • Make It Spicy: Add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the BBQ dressing for a kick of heat.

Recipe Variations

  1. Grilled Shrimp Salad: Swap the chicken for grilled shrimp for a lighter, seafood version.
  2. Spicy BBQ Chicken Salad: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a spicy kick.
  3. Ranch BBQ Chicken Salad: Use a ranch dressing mixed with BBQ sauce for a creamy, tangy dressing.
  4. Greek BBQ Chicken Salad: Add feta cheese, Kalamata olives, and cucumber for a Mediterranean twist.
  5. Tropical BBQ Chicken Salad: Top with pineapple chunks for a sweet, tropical touch.
  6. Mexican BBQ Chicken Salad: Add black beans, corn, and a lime-cilantro dressing for a Mexican-inspired salad.
  7. Asian BBQ Chicken Salad: Toss with sesame seeds, sliced almonds, and a soy-based BBQ dressing for an Asian flavor profile.
  8. Crispy BBQ Chicken Salad: Bread the chicken pieces and fry them for a crispy version of the salad.
  9. BBQ Chicken Cobb Salad: Add boiled eggs, bacon, and blue cheese for a hearty twist on a classic Cobb salad.
  10. Keto BBQ Chicken Salad: Skip the corn and cheese, and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce to make it keto-friendly.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Grill and freeze the chicken skewers separately. Once frozen, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the grill or stovetop.
  • Storage: Store leftover salad components (without dressing) in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble the salad just before serving.

Special Equipment

  • Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for grilling the chicken skewers to achieve that smoky BBQ flavor. A grill pan can be used indoors if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
  • Skewers (Metal or Bamboo): Use either reusable metal skewers or bamboo skewers for threading the chicken and vegetables.
  • Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the right internal temperature (165°F or 74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Basting Brush: Ideal for brushing BBQ sauce onto the chicken while grilling, allowing for an even coating.
  • Tongs: A long pair of tongs helps safely flip the skewers on the grill without burning your hands.
  • Grill Basket: If you prefer grilling the vegetables separately or want to avoid smaller items falling through the grill grates, a grill basket is a great choice.
  • Marinating Containers: Large resealable plastic bags or airtight containers are perfect for marinating the chicken and vegetables.
  • Chopping Board: A sturdy chopping board is needed for cutting the chicken, vegetables, and salad ingredients.
  • Salad Spinner: After washing your salad greens, a salad spinner will help dry them quickly, keeping your salad crisp.
  • Serving Platters or Large Salad Bowls: For arranging and presenting your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, large serving platters or bowls work best for both style and functionality.

FAQ

  1. Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it? Yes, bake the chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  2. Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use leftover or rotisserie chicken, but the grilling adds flavor.
  3. What other veggies can I add to the salad? Feel free to add ingredients like carrots, cucumbers, or radishes for more crunch.
  4. Can I make the BBQ sauce at home? Yes, homemade BBQ sauce made from ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices can be used for an even more personalized touch.
  5. Can I make the salad ahead of time? Yes, prep the chicken and veggies in advance, but avoid dressing the salad until right before serving to prevent wilting.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delicious and refreshing dish that’s perfect for warm weather and grilling season. The smoky, grilled chicken paired with fresh veggies and a tangy BBQ dressing creates a flavorful, satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a BBQ gathering, or as part of your meal prep, this salad is sure to become a favorite.

With its versatility and easy preparation, it offers a healthy and flavorful option for any occasion. The combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors comes together beautifully, making each bite a satisfying experience. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this salad is a winner all around.

I can’t wait to see how you make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad your own! Be sure to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see your version. Don’t forget to share your favorite twists in the comments. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment