BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

If you’re looking for a delightful dish that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for any occasion, then you’ve found it in this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! This recipe is one of my all-time favorites because it combines juicy grilled chicken with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce that’ll make your taste buds dance. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering, this salad brings everyone together around the table.

What I love most about this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is how easy it is to prepare. You can whip it up in no time, making it a fantastic option for those hectic days when you still want to enjoy a delicious meal. Plus, the vibrant colors and fresh ingredients make it not just tasty but also visually appealing!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you’ll have this beautiful salad on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love skewers, and the mix of flavors keeps even picky eaters happy!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare the chicken and veggies ahead of time for an easy dinner solution.
• Flavor-packed goodness: The combination of BBQ sauce and fresh herbs makes every bite a burst of deliciousness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather for this delightful dish!

For the Chicken Skewers

• 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)

For the Dressing

• 1 cup light tasting oil
• 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)
• ½ cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp apple cider 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

For the Salad Base

• 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 freshly chopped cilantro leaves
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped basil leaves
• 1 avocado (peeled, seed removed, and diced medium)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or whatever your heart desires to amp up the nutrition.
• Change the greens: If romaine isn’t your favorite, kale or spinach can also work beautifully.
• Make it spicy: Add some diced jalapeños or chili powder to give your salad an extra kick!

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken breasts into cubes. In a bowl, combine the avocado oil and kosher salt with cubed chicken. Toss until evenly coated. This step is crucial because marinating helps infuse flavor right into the meat!

Step 2: Thread onto Skewers

Pre-soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Once ready, thread the marinated chicken onto each skewer. It’s important to leave some space between pieces for even cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and brush them with BBQ sauce as they cook. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through and slightly charred. This grilling process adds depth and smokiness to your dish.

Step 4: Prepare the Dressing

In a mixing bowl, whisk together light tasting oil, egg (if using), coconut milk, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, minced garlic, dill fronds, parsley, and black pepper until well combined. The dressing brings everything together with its creamy texture and zesty flavor.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large serving bowl, add romaine lettuce as your base followed by corn (if using), green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans (if using), cilantro leaves, basil leaves, and diced avocado. Gently toss everything together before placing your grilled chicken skewers on top.

And there you have it! A vibrant BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s not only easy to make but also sure to impress everyone at your table! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in the BBQ sauce for at least an hour (or overnight) before grilling. This step infuses the chicken with incredible flavor, ensuring every bite is delicious.
• Use Soaked Skewers: By soaking your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling, you prevent them from burning on the grill. This small step makes a big difference in presentation and safety.
• Grill Over Medium Heat: Cooking the skewers over medium heat allows the chicken to cook evenly without drying out. The result is juicy, tender pieces that are bursting with flavor.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute veggies according to your taste! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms are great options that not only enhance flavor but also add color to your salad.
• Serve Immediately After Grilling: For the best experience, serve your skewers right after grilling. This ensures they retain their warmth and juiciness when mixed into your salad.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Presenting your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad beautifully can turn an everyday meal into a special occasion. Here are some creative serving ideas:

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or basil on top adds a pop of color and enhances the flavors.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side gives guests the option to squeeze fresh juice over their salad for an extra zing.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon dressing complements the main dish while adding a nutritious boost.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a satisfying crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory chicken skewers.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus not only add vibrant colors but also bring more depth to your meal’s flavor profile.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and herbs offers a crisp contrast to the warm skewers, making it an ideal side option.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’re sure to create an unforgettable dining experience with your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only delicious, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip it up ahead of time, making weeknight dinners a breeze or providing you with healthy lunches throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal freshness.
• Keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

• While it’s best to enjoy this salad fresh, you can freeze cooked chicken skewers separately.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat chicken skewers, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat at medium power until warm, checking frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that might help you out!

Can I use different proteins for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu for a tasty variation. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad gluten-free?

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is gluten-free, choose a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Always check labels to confirm no hidden gluten ingredients!

Can I prepare the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in advance?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep. Just store components separately until you’re ready to eat.

What toppings can I add to my BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

You can customize your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, or even crunchy tortilla strips for extra texture!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad as much as I do! It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures that turns any dinner into a celebration. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your toppings and dressings. Happy cooking!