This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fun and tasty dish! Juicy chicken pieces are grilled to perfection and served over fresh greens. It’s colorful, crunchy, and packed with flavor!
I love how the smoky BBQ mixes with the veggies for a delightful crunch. Perfect for lunch or dinner, and it’s great for those sunny days when you want something light and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: These are the star of the show! You can swap them for chicken thighs for a juicier option. Tofu or tempeh makes a great plant-based substitute if you’re looking for a vegetarian option.
BBQ sauce: Feel free to use your favorite brand or homemade version. If you want a healthier option, look for sugar-free or lower-sugar BBQ sauce. You can also use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
Romaine lettuce: Romaine provides a nice crunch, but you could also use mixed greens, spinach, or kale. If you want a heartier base, try using shredded cabbage.
Corn: Fresh corn is lovely, especially in summer, but canned or frozen corn works just as well. If you’re feeling adventurous, try roasted corn for a smoky flavor!
Avocado: Ripe avocados add creaminess. If you’re allergic or don’t enjoy them, try using diced cucumber or a scoop of hummus for a creamy component.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Perfectly?
Grilling chicken skewers may seem tricky, but with a few simple steps, it can be quite easy! Start by marinating the chicken well to ensure flavor and tenderness.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat for even cooking.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning.
- Grill for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—chicken should reach 165°F.
Remember, don’t overcrowd the grill; this allows for better air circulation and even cooking. Enjoy those beautiful grill marks!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or canned)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad takes about 40 minutes in total. You’ll need around 30 minutes for marinating the chicken, 10-12 minutes for grilling, and just a few minutes to prepare and assemble the salad. It’s a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by mixing the chicken cubes in a bowl with the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure all the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
2. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes first to prevent burning.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get a nice char. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside.
4. Make the Salad:
While the chicken cooks, prepare your salad. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, drained black beans, finely chopped red onion, and diced avocado. Give it a gentle toss to mix everything together nicely.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the salad with some extra BBQ sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the dressing coats all the ingredients evenly. This will give the salad a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken.
6. Assemble and Serve:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the skewers. Place the grilled chicken on top of your colorful salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a nice touch, and don’t forget to serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the salad just before eating for a burst of freshness. Enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Can I Use a Different Protein for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking times may vary—shrimp typically cooks faster, while beef may need longer to reach your desired doneness.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace it with grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms. You can still use the BBQ sauce for flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Salad?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh, it’s best to separate the salad from the dressing and BBQ sauce until ready to eat. Just toss them together when you’re ready for a meal!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can pre-marinate the chicken and prepare the salad ingredients in advance. Just keep everything stored separately in the fridge. Grill the chicken just before serving for the best taste and texture!
