BBQ chicken skewer salad
BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and tasty meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with crisp greens and colorful veggies. The smoky flavor from the BBQ chicken pairs perfectly…
Tip: save now, cook later.BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and tasty meal that combines juicy grilled chicken with crisp greens and colorful veggies. The smoky flavor from the BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the crunchy salad ingredients, making every bite exciting and satisfying.
I love making this salad when I want something light but still filling. Threading the chicken onto skewers makes it easy to grill and adds a fun touch to the meal. Sometimes I like to brush extra BBQ sauce on the chicken while it cooks for that extra punch of flavor. It’s always a hit with family or friends.
Serving this salad with a simple dressing like ranch or a zesty vinaigrette brings all the flavors together nicely. I enjoy eating it outside on a sunny day or packing it for a picnic. It’s a great way to enjoy BBQ without the heaviness of traditional sides, and the mix of textures keeps things interesting every time.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts work well for quick grilling and stay juicy. For a more tender bite, try chicken thighs instead; they’re also great if you want richer flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient, but homemade lets you adjust sweetness or smokiness. If you need gluten-free options, check the label or use a simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
Grilled Corn: Fresh corn adds sweetness and texture. If out of season, frozen corn kernels work fine—just give them a quick sauté to get some char flavor.
Yogurt Dressing: Greek yogurt adds creaminess and tang. You can swap regular yogurt if you prefer a milder taste or use dairy-free yogurt to keep it vegan-friendly.
How Can I Grill Chicken Skewers So They Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Grilling chicken can be tricky because it can dry out quickly. Here’s what I do:
- Cut chicken into even-sized chunks for uniform cooking.
- Brush with olive oil and season before grilling—this helps keep moisture in.
- Preheat the grill well to get a good sear and char.
- Grill each side for 4-5 minutes, basting repeatedly with BBQ sauce to add flavor and keep them moist.
- Use metal or soaked wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Rest the skewers a few minutes off heat before serving—this lets juices redistribute for tender bites.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for getting those tasty char marks on the chicken and corn.
- Wooden or metal skewers – wooden skewers need soaking to avoid burning; metal ones are reusable and sturdy.
- Mixing bowls – handy for tossing the salad and mixing the dressing smoothly.
- Whisk – helps blend the dressing ingredients evenly for a creamy texture.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – important for chopping veggies cleanly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp skewers for a lighter, quicker-cooking option that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Add diced avocado to the salad for creaminess and extra healthy fats.
- Mix in some grilled bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers for added color and sweetness.
- Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder in the BBQ sauce for a bit of smoky heat.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed lettuce (such as romaine and iceberg), chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 ear of corn, cut into small rounds (or 1 cup corn kernels)
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, chopped
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt (Greek or regular)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A handful of fresh herbs (such as cilantro, parsley, or dill), finely chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad takes around 25-30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your chicken and veggies, 10-12 minutes grilling the chicken and corn, and a few minutes mixing and assembling everything. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Skewers:
Start by threading the chicken chunks onto your skewers. Brush them with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and pepper to season. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for about 4-5 minutes on each side. While grilling, brush the chicken frequently with BBQ sauce to keep it juicy and full of flavor. Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove from the heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Salad:
Grill your corn rounds or corn kernels until they have nice char marks and are tender — this usually takes 5 to 7 minutes. In a large bowl, combine the chopped lettuce, cherry tomatoes, grilled corn, sliced red onion, and chopped cucumber.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the plain yogurt, fresh lime or lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs, and salt and pepper. Whisk until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Assemble the Salad:
Drizzle half of the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all the flavors. Then, transfer the dressed salad onto a serving plate or bowl. Arrange the BBQ chicken skewers on top or alongside the salad for a beautiful presentation.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Drizzle the remaining dressing over both the chicken and salad. Sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh finish. Serve the salad immediately while the chicken is still warm to enjoy the best flavors.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and skewering. Pat the pieces dry to help them grill evenly and avoid steaming.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare and grill the chicken and corn a day ahead, then store them separately in the fridge. Keep the salad and dressing refrigerated separately as well. Assemble everything just before serving to keep the veggies crisp and the chicken juicy.
Can I Substitute the Yogurt Dressing?
Absolutely! For a dairy-free option, use coconut or cashew yogurt. You can also swap yogurt for a light vinaigrette or a creamy avocado dressing if you prefer different flavors.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken skewers, salad components, and dressing separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently on the grill or in the oven before serving again.
