BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Is there anything more delightful than the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air on a warm summer day? Picture this: succulent pieces of chicken skewered and grilled to perfection, then served atop a vibrant salad bursting with fresh produce. The combination of smoky barbecue flavor, crunchy vegetables, and a rich, herby dressing is not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s also visually stunning. This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only a feast for your senses, but it’s also incredibly adaptable, making it a go-to dish for picnics, gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Whether you need a quick meal or a healthy option that’s still satisfying, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

When it comes to meal prep, this dish stands out thanks to its simplicity and versatility. You’ll find that it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for busy weekdays, and the flavors meld beautifully as they sit. With heart-healthy ingredients, including fresh veggies and lean protein, you’ll feel great serving this salad. Dive into the tantalizing world of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad and discover just how easy it is to whip up this crowd-pleaser.

Why Make This Recipe

Elevate your weeknight dinners with this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s bursting with flavor and color. The combination of marinated chicken, fresh veggies, and a zesty dressing makes it an enticing choice for the entire family. Plus, it’s a straightforward recipe that can be customized according to your taste.

In just under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table thanks to the simplicity of grilling the chicken and tossing together a salad. Grilling not only adds a distinct smokiness but keeps the chicken juicy and tender. This recipe is also great for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week.

With its blend of satisfying flavors and fresh ingredients, the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a beautiful way to celebrate summer on your plate.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups BBQ sauce (I use Primal Kitchen brand)
• 8 [6-inch] wooden skewers (pre-soaked)
• 1 cup light tasting oil
• 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo, see note)
• ½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 4 ears corn (*omit for Whole30)
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads)
• 6 green onions (thinly sliced, green part only)
• 2 cups quartered grape tomatoes (or 16 ounces)
• 1 [15-ounce] can black beans, drained and rinsed (*omit for Whole30)
• ¼ cup loosely packed fresh cilantro leaves
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped basil leaves
• 1 avocado (peeled, seed removed, and diced medium)

Directions

1. 
   

   Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the boneless chicken breasts, avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes; for best results, marinate for 1-2 hours in the refrigerator.

   
   
2. 
   

   Make the Herby-Ranch Dressing: In a separate bowl, whisk together the light-tasting oil, egg (if using), coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, minced garlic, dill, parsley, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy; adjust seasoning to taste.

   
   
3. 
   

   Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Thread the marinated chicken onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers. Grill chicken skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely charred.

   
   
4. 
   

   Prepare the Salad: While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad base by combining sliced romaine, green onions, grape tomatoes, corn (if using), black beans (if using), cilantro, basil, and diced avocado in a large bowl. Drizzle with the herby-ranch dressing and toss gently to combine.

   
   

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Serve the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad warm for the best taste experience, but it can also be enjoyed chilled. To plate, create a lovely bed of romaine and topped with the colorful salad mix, then lay the grilled chicken skewers on top. For an added touch, sprinkle with extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.

Pair this dish with a refreshing iced tea or a light-bodied white wine for a complete meal. This salad also shines at summer barbecues and potlucks, bringing vibrant colors and exciting flavors to the table.

How to Store BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the grilled chicken on skewers—just ensure you thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. The best method to reheat is in an oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring the chicken remains tender. If you notice any leftovers have an off smell or unusual texture, it’s best to discard them.

Make this salad a day ahead to enhance the flavors, just keep the chicken and salad components separate until serving.

Tips to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

1. Prep Ahead: Save time by marinating the chicken a night ahead to absorb all those flavors.
2. Substitution: Use Greek yogurt in place of the egg and coconut milk for a creamy dressing with fewer calories.
3. Avoid Dry Chicken: Use a meat thermometer; remove chicken from the grill just before it reaches 165°F for tender results.
4. No Grill? No Problem!: You can sauté the chicken on medium-high heat in a skillet for about 6-8 minutes on each side.
5. Batch Cooking: Grill extra chicken skewers to use in wraps or sandwiches throughout the week for hassle-free meals.
6. Adjust Texture: If the dressing is too thick, thin it out using a little water or more coconut milk until you reach the desired consistency.
7. Enhance Flavor: Stir in a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
8. Dietary Adaptation: Omit the black beans and corn for a Whole30 license while still packing flavor with herbs.
9. Transform Leftovers: Turn salad leftovers into a wrap with a whole wheat tortilla for a fresh lunch option.
10. Visual Appeal: Garnish with crumbled feta or goat cheese for an elegant touch.

Variations

1. 
   

   Garden Fresh Delight: Swap grilled chicken for grilled zucchini and bell peppers for a vegetarian option while still keeping the smoky flavor.

   
   
2. 
   

   Spicy BBQ Remix: Incorporate diced jalapeños into the BBQ sauce for a kicked-up version that adds an exciting heat to the dish.

   
   
3. 
   

   Low-Carb Twist: Use grilled chicken over a bed of spinach and avocado to create a low-carb version without sacrificing flavor.

   
   
4. 
   

   Tropical BBQ Flair: Add diced pineapple to your salad, bringing a sweet and tangy twist that complements the smoky chicken beautifully.

   
   
5. 
   

   Mediterranean Fusion: Incorporate roasted red peppers, artichokes, and a tangy feta dressing to give a Mediterranean twist to your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.

   
   

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and grill it right before serving. The herby-ranch dressing can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate any leftover salad components in separate, airtight containers. The chicken will stay fresh for up to three days, while the salad components will stay crisp for about two days.

Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze the grilled chicken skewers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat gently before serving.

What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
You can use a homemade version using ketchup and vinegar if desired, or maple syrup for a sweet and smoky alternative.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Using a meat thermometer helps; cook until just before 165°F and let it rest before serving to lock in moisture.

Is this gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free BBQ sauce, then yes! This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can easily be made gluten-free.

Can I double/halve this recipe?
Certainly! If you double the chicken, adjust the marinating time slightly to ensure flavor infusion. Halving the recipe works just as well; just keep an eye on cooking time.

What if I don’t have skewers?
You can grill the chicken breasts whole on the grates or use a grill basket for easier handling.

Try this delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, and you’ll find yourself preparing it again and again, thanks to its flexibility and delightful flavors!

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