If you are ready to dive into a flavor-packed and colorful dish that brings together smoky grilled chicken and fresh garden produce, you have to try this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe. This recipe is the perfect balance of juicy, tender BBQ chicken skewers resting atop a vibrant salad that bursts with textures and taste. Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and creamy elements that make it an unforgettable ultimate meal experience. Whether you’re grilling for a weeknight dinner or an outdoor gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe right is all about choosing simple, fresh ingredients that each play a vital role. From the protein-packed chicken to the crisp greens and creamy avocado, every component adds something special to the plate, building layers of flavor and texture without complexity.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs: These chunks of chicken become juicy and tender when grilled, serving as the hearty star of your skewers.
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing): A smoky, tangy coating that infuses the chicken with unforgettable flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the marinade coat the chicken evenly and ensures a nice grill finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle savory depth to the chicken marinade.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a lovely smoky undertone to the chicken, enhancing that classic BBQ vibe.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Wooden or metal skewers: For assembling and grilling the chicken perfectly.
- 6 cups mixed greens or chopped romaine: A crisp, refreshing bed for the chicken and vegetables.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten every forkful.
- 1 cup corn kernels (grilled or canned): Adds a subtle smoky crunch or sweetness depending on your choice.
- 1/2 cup cucumber (sliced or diced): Cool and crisp for textural contrast.
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced): A zesty punch with a bit of bite.
- 1 avocado (sliced): Creamy richness that balances the tangy BBQ flavors.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts slightly from the warm skewers, making each bite comfortingly delicious.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or creamy cilantro dressing: Creates a luscious dressing that ties the salad together beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce: Boosts the dressing’s smoky flavor.
- Juice of 1/2 lime: Adds a refreshing citrus zing to the dressing, brightening the entire dish.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by combining the chicken chunks in a bowl with 1/2 cup of BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Toss everything together until every piece is wonderfully coated. Letting it marinate for at least 20 minutes allows the flavors to marry, and if you have time, an 8-hour marination in the fridge will elevate the taste even further. This step is key to ensuring juicy, flavorful chicken skewers that shine on your salad.
Step 2: Prepare Your Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, arranging them comfortably but without overlapping to promote even cooking. This simple prep ensures your chicken cooks evenly, giving you those irresistible grill marks that make BBQ meals so special.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning frequently to get an even char. During the last few minutes, brush on extra BBQ sauce to create a sticky, delicious glaze. The result is charred, smoky chicken bursting with flavor that will elevate the entire salad experience.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
While the chicken grills, prepare the salad by combining mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced avocado, and shredded cheese in a large bowl or on individual plates. This vibrant medley adds freshness, crunch, and creamy bites that beautifully complement the smoky chicken.
Step 5: Make the Dressing and Serve
Whisk together ranch or creamy cilantro dressing, BBQ sauce, and lime juice until smooth and flavorful. Drizzle this dressing over your assembled salad just before serving. Top with hot BBQ chicken skewers and enjoy this sensational combination of textures and tastes that truly embodies the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe
Garnishes
For a final touch, consider sprinkling some chopped fresh cilantro or parsley over the top to add a pop of fresh herbaceousness. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika for those who love a little heat. These garnishes enhance both the look and flavor without overpowering the dish’s balance.
Side Dishes
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad shines on its own but pairs beautifully with some grilled cornbread, garlic naan, or a crisp side of black bean salsa. If you’re after something light, offer a simple fruit salad or chilled cucumber lemonade to complement the smoky, savory flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow guests? Serve the skewers laid across a large platter of salad for a beautiful centerpiece. Alternatively, use individual mason jars or clear bowls layered with greens, veggies, cheese, and dressing, then top with skewers for a picnic-friendly presentation. The colors and layers will entice anyone before they even take a bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken skewers separately from the salad in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Keeping them apart prevents the greens from wilting and preserves the integrity of each component.
Freezing
While the salad itself doesn’t freeze well due to fresh veggies, the chicken skewers freeze beautifully. After grilling, allow them to cool, wrap individually or in small portions, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken skewers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to avoid drying out. Always add the hot chicken back onto fresh salad and drizzle with dressing right before serving for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Shrimp, tofu, or even beef chunks make excellent substitutes on skewers. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, and use your favorite BBQ sauce to keep the smoky flavor consistent.
What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan?
No worries! You can cook the chicken skewers in a hot oven under the broiler for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through. Alternatively, a regular skillet works fine if you want pan-seared chicken chunks instead of skewers.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free BBQ sauce and dressing, this recipe is a great gluten-free option packed with protein and fresh vegetables.
Can I prepare this salad for meal prep?
Definitely! Store the salad and chicken skewers separately in airtight containers and assemble them just before eating. This keeps the greens fresh and prevents sogginess while letting you enjoy a quick, flavorful meal anytime.
How spicy is the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe?
The base recipe is mild and balanced, but you can easily add heat with jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a spicy BBQ sauce to suit your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe truly transforms a simple salad into a memorable feast, bringing an exciting mix of smoky, savory, fresh, and creamy notes all in one dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight and elegant enough to serve at your next barbecue or summer gathering. Dive in, and I promise this will become one of your go-to recipes that everyone will ask you to make again and again!
Print
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Meal Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 37 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the ultimate meal combining juicy, grilled BBQ chicken skewers with a fresh, vibrant salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, corn, and avocado. Topped with a zesty creamy BBQ ranch dressing, it’s a perfect dish for a satisfying lunch or dinner with a burst of smoky, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, plus more for brushing
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Salad:
- 6 cups mixed greens or chopped romaine
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels, grilled or canned
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced or diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing or creamy cilantro dressing
- 2 tablespoons BBQ sauce
- Juice of 1/2 lime
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken chunks with BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and let marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate for up to 8 hours to deepen the flavors.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers evenly.
- Grill the Chicken Skewers: Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Brush with extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes to build a flavorful glaze. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large salad bowl or on individual serving plates, layer the mixed greens or romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, sliced avocado, and shredded cheese.
- Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and lime juice until smooth and well combined.
- Serve: Place the hot BBQ chicken skewers on top of the salad, drizzle generously with the prepared dressing, and serve immediately for the best tasting experience.
Notes
- Add black beans or crushed tortilla chips for extra crunch and protein.
- Great for meal prep: store salad and chicken separately and assemble just before serving to keep freshness.
- Swap chicken with tofu or shrimp for a delicious variation.
