BBQ chicken skewer salad
BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and tasty dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken with a mix of crisp greens and vibrant veggies. The smoky flavor from the…
Tip: save now, cook later.BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and tasty dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken with a mix of crisp greens and vibrant veggies. The smoky flavor from the BBQ seasoning on the chicken pairs perfectly with the light, crunchy textures of the salad, making every bite interesting and satisfying.
I love how easy it is to customize this salad depending on what’s in the fridge or your mood. Toss in some sweet corn, cherry tomatoes, or even a handful of crunchy nuts for a bit of extra texture. Grilling the chicken on skewers makes it super simple to handle, and I find that the flavors soak in beautifully while cooking over the heat.
When I serve this salad, I usually add a drizzle of a tangy dressing—something like a citrus vinaigrette or even a creamy ranch—to bring everything together. It’s great for a quick lunch or a light dinner, and I always feel like I’m treating myself to something fresh and satisfying without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I like using chicken breasts because they stay juicy on the grill. You can swap for thighs if you want more flavor and tenderness.
BBQ Sauce: The BBQ sauce adds a sweet and smoky punch. If you prefer less sugar, try a mustard-based or spicy sauce.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch. If you want a softer salad, baby spinach or mixed greens work well too.
Creamy Ranch Dressing: Ranch adds creaminess. Use a vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option.
Fresh Herbs: Basil or cilantro on top gives a fresh touch. You can try parsley or mint for a different twist.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers So They Stay Juicy and Don’t Stick?
Grilling chicken can be tricky if the meat sticks or dries out. Here’s how to get juicy, flavorful skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Brush chicken pieces with olive oil to keep them moist and help prevent sticking.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan so it’s hot before adding the skewers.
- Grill on medium-high heat, turning every 4-5 minutes to cook evenly and get nice char marks.
- In the last few minutes, brush BBQ sauce on and grill briefly. This helps the sauce caramelize without burning.
- Remove skewers once chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
Following these tips will give you delicious skewers with great texture every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for cooking chicken evenly and getting those tasty char marks.
- Wooden skewers – soaking them stops burning and makes threading easy.
- Basting brush – helps spread olive oil and BBQ sauce for extra flavor and moisture.
- Sharp knife – for cutting chicken and chopping veggies cleanly and safely.
- Large mixing bowl – ideal for tossing the salad ingredients without spills.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu skewers for a different protein that grills well.
- Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add smoked paprika to the chicken for a bolder taste.
- Mix in avocado slices or black beans to add creaminess and fiber to the salad.
- Top with shredded cheddar or feta cheese to add a salty, tangy contrast.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For The Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, sliced
- ½ cup red onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup corn kernels (cooked or grilled)
- ½ cup creamy ranch dressing (or dressing of choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 10 minutes to grill the chicken skewers. In total, you’ll spend about 20-25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and tasty meal that comes together fast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the bite-sized chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers. Brush them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through and nicely charred. In the last few minutes, brush the chicken generously with BBQ sauce so it caramelizes a little. Once done, take the skewers off the grill and set them aside.
2. Prepare the Fresh Salad:
While the chicken grills, grab a large bowl and combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, and corn kernels. Toss everything together with creamy ranch dressing (or your favorite dressing) and season with salt and pepper to your taste.
3. Serve and Garnish:
Plate the salad and place the BBQ chicken skewers on top or on the side. Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or cilantro over the dish for a nice fresh flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy the smoky, creamy, and crunchy flavors all together!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cutting and threading onto skewers. This helps it cook evenly and safely.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
You can use any creamy dressing you like, such as blue cheese or Caesar. For a lighter option, try a simple vinaigrette or a yogurt-based dressing.
How Should I Store Leftover Salad and Chicken?
Keep leftover chicken skewers and salad components in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken is best eaten within 2 days, and the salad should be consumed within 1 day to keep veggies crisp.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu, tempeh, or even grilled veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian skewer option.