Looking for a fresh, flavorful meal that combines the smoky goodness of grilled chicken with crisp, vibrant salad greens? This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a perfect blend of hearty protein and refreshing veggies, all tossed together in a tangy dressing that ties every bite into a delicious harmony. Whether you want a light lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad brings the bold flavors of barbecue into a healthy, colorful dish. Easy to prepare and wonderfully versatile, it’s a meal that’s as tasty as it is nourishing.
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
Fresh, Crisp Veggies: A vibrant mix of greens and veggies brings freshness and crunch.
Tangy Dressing: A zesty, balanced dressing enhances every ingredient without overpowering.
Light Yet Filling: Combines protein and veggies for a meal that satisfies without heaviness.
Quick & Easy to Assemble: Perfect for busy days when you want something wholesome and fast.
Customizable: Swap veggies or add your favorite toppings to suit your taste.
Perfect for Any Season: Great served warm or chilled, making it versatile year-round.
Enjoy a deliciously balanced meal that’s packed with flavor and freshness — your new go-to BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Juicy grilled chicken skewers, smoky and perfectly charred. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that smoky flavor.
Olive oil: A splash helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness.
Garlic powder: For a hint of savory goodness that complements the chicken.
Onion powder: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
Smoked paprika: This gives a lovely smoky kick, perfect for grilling.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust to your taste.
Mixed salad greens: A colorful mix of romaine, spinach, and arugula adds freshness.
Cherry tomatoes: Their sweetness balances the savory elements of the dish.
Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch that brightens up the salad.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of zing and color.
Shredded cheddar cheese: A creamy touch that pairs beautifully with the BBQ flavors.
Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle on top adds a burst of freshness.
Additional barbecue sauce: Drizzle it on top for extra flavor before serving.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick or swapping the chicken for shrimp or tofu. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Creating this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken cubes in a bowl. Add the barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes. This step is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken. If you have more time, let it sit longer for an even tastier result!
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Make sure it’s hot enough to give those beautiful grill marks. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. This little trick helps keep your skewers intact while grilling!
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Once the grill is ready, thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to be cooked through and have those lovely grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before taking them off the skewers. This resting time helps keep the chicken juicy!
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix everything together. The colors will pop, making it visually appealing. This is where the freshness of the veggies shines through, balancing the smoky flavors of the chicken!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Top the salad with the grilled chicken skewers. Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for that extra burst of flavor. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over everything before serving. This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not just a meal; it’s a feast for the senses. Enjoy every bite!
Tips for Success
Let the chicken marinate longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours is ideal.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for perfect doneness.
Experiment with different barbecue sauces for unique flavor profiles.
Don’t overcrowd the grill; give each skewer space for even cooking.
For a smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for that smoky flavor. A stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers are both great. If using wooden, soak them first.
Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken.
Salad Bowl: To combine all the fresh ingredients.
Meat Thermometer: Optional, but helpful for checking chicken doneness.
Variations
Spicy BBQ Chicken Skewers: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or grilled portobello mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free version.
Seafood Twist: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a light and zesty alternative that cooks quickly on the grill.
Grilled Veggie Skewers: Add bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious addition.
Herb-Infused Salad: Mix in fresh herbs like basil or parsley to the salad for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair the salad with cornbread or baked sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.
Drinks: A chilled iced tea or a light beer complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
Presentation: Serve in a large bowl with skewers standing upright for a stunning display.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve. The salad can also be prepped ahead; just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for chicken in this salad?
If you’re looking for alternatives, shrimp or firm tofu work wonderfully. Both options grill nicely and absorb the flavors of the marinade, making them great substitutes for this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.
How can I make this salad spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños to the salad or mix some hot sauce into the barbecue sauce. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce to amp up the heat!
Is this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad gluten-free?
Yes! This salad is naturally gluten-free, especially if you choose a gluten-free barbecue sauce. Always check the labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary needs.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The salad is best enjoyed within a day or two, but the chicken can be reheated and added to other dishes like wraps or grain bowls!
Final Thoughts
Creating this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than just a cooking experience; it’s a celebration of flavors and fresh ingredients. Each bite brings together the smoky goodness of grilled chicken and the crispness of vibrant veggies, making it a joy to eat. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny day or sharing it with friends at a gathering, this salad is sure to bring smiles all around. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. Dive in, savor the flavors, and relish the moments spent around the table!
A delicious and healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that combines grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and a tangy barbecue sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
8 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Additional barbecue sauce for drizzling
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the chicken cubes, barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before removing from skewers.
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and cheddar cheese. Toss gently to mix.
Top the salad with the grilled chicken skewers and sprinkle with fresh cilantro. Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top before serving.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the salad.
You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
For a heartier meal, serve the salad with a side of cornbread or baked sweet potatoes.
