BBQ chicken skewer salad
BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and fun dish that brings together smoky grilled chicken, crisp greens, and colorful veggies all in one bowl. The juicy chicken skewers have…
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BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and fun dish that brings together smoky grilled chicken, crisp greens, and colorful veggies all in one bowl. The juicy chicken skewers have that perfect charred flavor that pairs so well with the cool crunch of the salad underneath. It’s a great way to enjoy the best of both worlds—barbecue and salad, all in a light, satisfying meal.
I love making this salad when I want something easy but still impressive. Grilling the chicken on skewers is simple and quick, and the smell of BBQ always makes me excited to eat. One little trick I like is to marinate the chicken a bit beforehand with my favorite BBQ sauce to get that deep flavor locked in. It’s always a crowd-pleaser whether I’m eating alone or sharing with friends.
The best part is how versatile this salad can be. I usually serve it with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a tangy dressing on the side, and sometimes add some avocado or corn for even more texture. It’s super refreshing on warm days but filling enough to satisfy anytime. I find myself coming back to this recipe whenever I want a meal that feels like a treat without a lot of fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless work best for even cooking. If you want a juicier option, use thighs—they stay tender and flavorful on the grill.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought is easy, but homemade gives a personal touch. If you prefer less sugar, look for low-sugar or make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Greens: Romaine lettuce adds crunch and freshness. You can swap in mixed greens or spinach for a different texture.
Greek Yogurt Dressing: This keeps it creamy without heavy mayo. For a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or a vinaigrette with lemon and olive oil.
Avocado: Adds creaminess and healthy fats. If you don’t like avocado, maybe add sliced almonds or walnuts for a bit of richness and crunch.
Skewers: Wooden skewers need soaking to avoid burning. Metal skewers are reusable and heat up quickly, speeding cooking but be careful when handling.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Cooked Evenly?
Getting juicy chicken on skewers needs attention:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes; it adds flavor and moisture.
- Cut chicken chunks evenly so they cook at the same rate.
- Leave a little space between pieces on the skewer for even heat circulation.
- Grill on medium-high heat, about 4-5 minutes per side, to get char without drying out.
- Brush extra BBQ sauce near the end to avoid burning the sugars.
- Check doneness by cutting a piece or using a meat thermometer (165°F/75°C).
Patience and keeping an eye on the grill make for tender, flavorful chicken every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for cooking chicken skewers evenly with a nice char.
- Mixing bowls – to marinate the chicken and toss the salad ingredients easily.
- Wooden or metal skewers – essential for grilling the chicken; soak wooden ones to prevent burning.
- Sharp knife – helps you cut chicken and veggies cleanly and safely.
- Whisk or fork – for mixing the creamy yogurt dressing smoothly.
- Large salad bowl or plate – to assemble and serve the salad in style.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu skewers—both grill quickly and add a different texture.
- Add shredded cheddar or crumbled feta cheese to the salad for extra tang and creaminess.
- Include diced bell peppers or grilled zucchini for more color and crunch.
- Mix smoked paprika or chili powder into the marinade to give the chicken a smoky or spicy kick.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes or diced regular tomatoes
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup grilled corn kernels (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon or lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: a splash of water or milk to thin dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep the chicken and veggies, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate. Cooking the skewers and assembling the salad will take another 15 minutes. Altogether, plan for about 50 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken chunks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the BBQ sauce. Stir well to coat all pieces. Cover and place in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you have time. This helps the chicken soak up the flavors.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If using wooden skewers, be sure they have soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving some space between each chunk for even cooking.
3. Cook the Chicken Skewers:
Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place the skewers on the hot surface and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred. In the last few minutes, use a brush to glaze the chicken with the remaining BBQ sauce for a juicy, glossy finish.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon or lime juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. If you want a thinner dressing, add a small splash of water or milk and mix until smooth.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl or plate, combine chopped romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and grilled corn kernels if you’re using them. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the veggies and toss gently so everything is nicely coated.
6. Serve:
Arrange the hot BBQ chicken skewers on top of the salad. Sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve right away, enjoy the mix of smoky chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy dressing!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to avoid extra moisture that can cause steaming instead of grilling.
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep and chop all the salad ingredients in advance, but keep the dressing and grilled chicken separate until ready to serve to prevent sogginess. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Dressing?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt or want a dairy-free option, try using coconut yogurt or a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil, lemon juice, and a touch of honey instead.
How Should I Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Keep leftover chicken skewers and salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the grill or stove, then toss with fresh greens and dressing before enjoying again.
