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
Scale
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.
