BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fresh, vibrant dish featuring juicy, grilled BBQ chicken skewers served over a crisp salad with a tangy dressing. This recipe combines smoky, charred flavors with cool, crunchy vegetables, making it a perfect balance of hearty and refreshing. It’s great for summer gatherings, meal prep, or a light yet satisfying dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy & Flavorful – A protein-packed meal loaded with fresh vegetables.
• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick cooking time.
• Customizable – Adjust the toppings and dressing to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make ahead and assemble when ready to eat.
• Great for Grilling Season – Ideal for summer BBQs or outdoor dining.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Skewers:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Olive oil
• BBQ sauce
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Paprika
• Salt and pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Salad:

• Romaine lettuce (or mixed greens)
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Cucumber, sliced
• Red onion, thinly sliced
• Avocado, diced
• Corn (grilled or canned)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, feta, or cotija)

For the Dressing:

• Ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or a homemade BBQ ranch dressing
• Lime juice (optional, for extra freshness)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Skewers

1. Soak skewers (if using wooden ones) – Soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Marinate the chicken – Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and toss with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for extra flavor.
3. Assemble the skewers – Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers.

Step 2: Cook the Skewers

• Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush with extra BBQ sauce in the last few minutes.
• Oven: Preheat to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Stovetop: Cook in a grill pan over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

1. Prepare the greens – Chop romaine or use mixed greens as a base.
2. Add toppings – Layer on cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, corn, avocado, and shredded cheese.
3. Add chicken skewers – Place the cooked BBQ chicken skewers on top.
4. Drizzle with dressing – Use ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or BBQ ranch dressing.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Remove chicken from the skewers if desired and toss with the salad before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional)
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes (grill) | 20-25 minutes (oven)

Variations

• Low Carb Version – Skip the corn and use a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
• Spicy Kick – Add cayenne or a spicy BBQ sauce to the chicken marinade.
• Tropical Twist – Include grilled pineapple chunks on the skewers.
• Extra Crunch – Add crushed tortilla chips or roasted nuts.
• Vegan Option – Swap chicken for grilled tofu or chickpeas.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store chicken separately from the salad in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken skewers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm chicken in a skillet or microwave before adding to the salad.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Yes! Choose your favorite brand or a sugar-free option for a lower-carb version.

What’s the best way to grill chicken skewers?

Cook over medium-high heat and turn every few minutes for even charring.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs stay juicier and work great for skewers.

How do I keep wooden skewers from burning?

Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

What dressing goes best with this salad?

Ranch, BBQ ranch, balsamic vinaigrette, or a tangy lime dressing all work well.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Keep the chicken separate and assemble the salad just before serving.

What sides go well with this dish?

Garlic bread, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled veggies pair nicely.

Can I cook the chicken without skewers?

Yes! Simply grill or bake the chicken in bite-sized pieces.

How do I make this salad dairy-free?

Skip the cheese and use a dairy-free dressing.

Can I add other proteins?

Absolutely! Shrimp, steak, or even grilled tofu would be great alternatives.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy grilled chicken with fresh, crisp vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, meal prep, or a light dinner, this salad is packed with flavor and easy to customize. Try it today for a satisfying and wholesome meal!

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