This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is fun and colorful! Tender chicken grilled to perfection is mixed with fresh veggies and a tasty dressing that brings everything together.
I love how easy it is to make these skewers! Just grill, toss in a bowl with greens, and enjoy a great meal. Perfect for summer picnics or a quick dinner! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I use chicken breasts for their tenderness, but thighs would work nicely too! They’re juicy and stay moist when grilled. If you’re looking for a faster option, you can buy pre-cooked grilled chicken or use tofu for a vegetarian version.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite BBQ sauce will do the trick! If you’re feeling adventurous, make your own with ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. For a healthier option, use a sugar-free or low-sugar BBQ sauce.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine gives a nice crunch, but feel free to swap for spinach, arugula, or any salad greens you enjoy. Even kale can work if massaged a little to soften it.
Avocado: Fresh avocado adds creaminess, but if you’re out, try Greek yogurt for a tangy alternative or a sprinkle of feta cheese for a different flavor punch.
Corn: Grilled corn rounds enhance the flavor, but canned or frozen corn is a quick substitute. Just drain or heat it before adding to the salad!
How Do You Grill Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but here are some simple tips to keep them juicy:
- Marinate: Marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes helps infuse flavor and keep it moist.
- Don’t Overcook: Grill over medium-high heat and aim for 10-12 minutes total. Check internal temp with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F.
- Baste Often: Brush more BBQ sauce on the chicken while grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
- Let Rest: After grilling, let the chicken skewers rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy!
Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 ear corn, husked and cut into small rounds
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For the Creamy Dressing:
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will take about 30 minutes to prepare and grill the chicken and corn, plus a few more minutes to assemble everything. Perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Chicken Skewers:
Take your soaked wooden skewers and thread the cubed chicken evenly onto each skewer. Make sure the chicken pieces are snug but not packed too tightly. Brush the chicken liberally with your favorite BBQ sauce to add flavor.
2. Grill Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, lay the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Continue to baste with BBQ sauce while grilling. The chicken is ready once it’s cooked through and has beautiful grill marks.
3. Grill Corn:
While the chicken is grilling, toss the corn rounds directly on the grill. Grill them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly charred. Remove from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Make Dressing:
In a small mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk all together until you achieve a smooth and creamy dressing.
5. Assemble Salad:
In a large salad bowl, toss together the chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, grilled corn, and black beans. Drizzle the creamy dressing over the salad and gently toss to combine all the flavors nicely.
6. Serve:
To serve, divide the salad into bowls or plates. Place two BBQ chicken skewers on top of each portion, and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. You can add an extra sprinkle of black pepper for more flavor if you like.
7. Enjoy!
Relish your fresh and flavorful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. It’s a delightful mix of smoky chicken, crisp veggies, and a creamy dressing that satisfies!
This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or a simple weeknight dinner. Enjoy the flavors!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Skewers?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with other proteins like shrimp, beef, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad and chicken skewers in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad can be kept for up to 2 days, but it’s best to store the dressing separately to keep the greens crisp. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat the chicken skewers in the microwave or on the grill.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and skewers a few hours ahead and grill it right before serving. The salad ingredients (except for the avocado) can also be prepped in advance. Just toss everything together when you’re ready to enjoy!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Dressing?
If you don’t have Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream or a plant-based yogurt for a dairy-free option! For a lighter dressing, try using low-fat mayonnaise or even just a simple vinaigrette made with olive oil and vinegar.
