Fire up the grill and get ready to savor the perfect balance of smoky, juicy BBQ chicken paired with crisp, vibrant greens! Our BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a wholesome, protein-packed dish that brings the best of backyard barbecues straight to your plate. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or craving something hearty yet refreshing, this salad is your go-to recipe. Bursting with flavor and easy to customize, it’s ideal for meal prep, lunch gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy & Satisfying: A nutrient-rich meal loaded with lean protein and veggies.
- Customizable: Effortlessly adjust ingredients to match your preferences or dietary requirements.
- Easy & Quick: Simple steps and minimal cleanup make this a stress-free dish.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, picnics, or potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional Additions:
- Grilled corn kernels
- Croutons or tortilla strips
- Pickled jalapeños
- Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley)
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Salad: Toss romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Assemble the Dish: Place grilled chicken skewers on top of the salad. Add avocado, cheese, and any optional ingredients.
- Serve with Dressing: Drizzle extra BBQ sauce or a tangy ranch dressing over the salad. Serve immediately!
Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Perfectly Juicy Chicken: Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F.
- Charred Flavor: Let the chicken develop a slight char on the grill for added smokiness.
- Fresh & Crisp Veggies: Use the freshest produce for the best texture and flavor contrast.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Garlic Bread or crusty baguettes
- Grilled Vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
- Chilled Lemonade or a light white wine
FAQs
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? Absolutely! Thighs add extra juiciness.
- Can I make this recipe without a grill? Yes! Use a grill pan or broil in the oven for delicious results.
- What dressing pairs best? BBQ sauce, ranch, or a smoky chipotle vinaigrette work wonderfully.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6 people
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (including marination)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken separately from the salad in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm chicken in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- Vegan Option: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Low-Carb: Skip the croutons and cheese, and add more avocado or nuts.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this salad delivers a satisfying mix of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors in every bite. Try it out, and let me know how you make it your own! Happy cooking
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Juicy BBQ chicken skewers on a bed of fresh veggies make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a deliciously smoky, satisfying meal in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts cut into cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce homemade or store-bought
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 head romaine lettuce chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 avocado diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving small gaps between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
- Prepare the Salad: Toss romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion in a large bowl.
- Assemble the Dish: Place grilled chicken skewers on top of the salad. Add avocado, cheese, and any optional ingredients.
- Serve with Dressing: Drizzle extra BBQ sauce or a tangy ranch dressing over the salad. Serve immediately
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with grilled tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
- Grill or Oven: If you don’t have a grill, cook the chicken skewers in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, or until fully cooked.
- Customization: Add crispy bacon, jalapeños, or roasted bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.