BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful combination of tender, smoky grilled chicken served on skewers and tossed with a fresh, crunchy salad. The bold flavors of the barbecue chicken perfectly complement the crisp veggies and tangy dressing, making this dish a perfect choice for a summer meal, barbecue, or casual dinner. With its balance of protein, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful dressing, BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a complete and satisfying meal that can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences.

This recipe combines the deliciousness of grilled chicken, the freshness of salad, and the irresistible flavor of barbecue sauce. It’s not only a tasty dish but also a visually stunning one, with colorful vegetables, grilled chicken skewers, and a fresh dressing that pulls everything together. This guide will walk you through each step to make the perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad and share tips to ensure you get the best results. You’ll also find some fun variations to suit different tastes and preferences.

Why You’ll Love BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

• Smoky, Tender Grilled Chicken: The chicken skewers are marinated in a flavorful barbecue sauce, then grilled to perfection, creating juicy, smoky pieces of chicken that are the perfect addition to any salad.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of grilled chicken and fresh, crisp vegetables provides a satisfying balance of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making this salad both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: You can easily customize this salad by adding your favorite veggies or substituting different ingredients, making it versatile enough to suit a variety of tastes.
• Quick and Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to prepare, and the grilling time is quick, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight meal or an outdoor gathering. It comes together in under 45 minutes, which is perfect for when you need something both satisfying and easy.
• Visually Appealing: With its bright colors and grilled chicken skewers, this salad is not only delicious but also a beautiful dish that’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying with family.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (for grilling chicken skewers)
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 350-400 calories per serving, depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-400 kcal
• Fat: 18-20g
• Carbohydrates: 20-25g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 10-12g

Ingredients

For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, or a spring mix)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or grilled)
• 1 avocado, diced
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Skewers

Start by cutting the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Season the chicken generously with salt and pepper. Next, pour in ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce and toss the chicken pieces until they are evenly coated in the marinade.

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat. If you have more time, you can marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours for even more flavor.

While the chicken is marinating, soak wooden skewers in water for about 10 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them.

2. Prepare the Salad Ingredients

While the chicken is marinating, wash and prepare the salad ingredients. Start by chopping the mixed greens and placing them in a large salad bowl. Next, slice the cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into thin slices, then halve the cherry tomatoes. Add these to the salad bowl with the greens.

If using fresh corn, cut the kernels off the cob. Alternatively, if you’re using frozen corn, simply thaw and drain it. Add the corn to the salad mixture, along with the diced avocado. Finally, chop the cilantro or parsley and sprinkle it over the salad.

3. Grill the Chicken Skewers

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. If using a grill pan, lightly grease it with cooking spray or brush it with a little olive oil.

Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). Depending on the size of the chicken pieces, grilling time may vary slightly, so be sure to check for doneness.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes before removing the chicken pieces from the skewers. You can either serve the chicken directly on the skewers or remove the chicken and place it on top of the salad.

4. Prepare the Dressing

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the dressing. In a small bowl or jar, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the dressing is smooth and emulsified. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a little more vinegar.

5. Assemble the Salad

Once the chicken has rested and been removed from the skewers, place the chicken on top of the prepared salad. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients in the flavorful dressing. The warm chicken will slightly wilt the greens and bring out the freshness of the vegetables.

You can garnish the salad with extra cilantro or parsley for an added touch of freshness, or sprinkle some cheese such as feta or goat cheese for an added creamy texture.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad immediately for the best flavor and texture. This dish is perfect for a light summer meal, a BBQ party, or as a healthy lunch or dinner. The smoky grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and tangy dressing come together to create a well-rounded, satisfying meal.

Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

• Marinate the Chicken: Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it tender and juicy. Don’t skip this step, as it’s crucial for flavor. You can even marinate the chicken overnight for the best results.
• Grill the Chicken to Perfection: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on it. This will help achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the chicken juicy on the inside. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, ensuring the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Use Fresh, Crunchy Vegetables: The vegetables are key to making this salad light and refreshing. Make sure to use fresh vegetables and avoid overcooking the corn or other ingredients to keep them crisp and flavorful.
• Customize the Salad: Feel free to add any other ingredients you like. Some great options include grilled pineapple, roasted sweet potatoes, or even crumbled bacon for an extra smoky flavor.
• Make Extra Dressing: If you enjoy the dressing, make extra to have on hand for later. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week and used as a dressing for other salads or even as a marinade for grilled meats.

Variations of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

• Grilled Veggie BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: Add grilled vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus to the salad for an even more robust flavor. Grilled veggies add a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the BBQ chicken.
• Southwest BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: Add some black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese to make a heartier version of this salad. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top can also take the flavors up a notch.
• Crispy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: For extra crunch, bread the chicken pieces before grilling. Dip the chicken in a mixture of breadcrumbs and seasonings before cooking for a crispy texture that adds a new layer to the salad.
• Spicy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: If you love spice, add sliced jalapeños to the salad or mix a little sriracha or hot sauce into the BBQ sauce to give the chicken a fiery kick.
• BBQ Chicken Caesar Salad: For a fusion twist, swap the balsamic dressing for a creamy Caesar dressing and top with croutons and grated Parmesan for a BBQ Chicken Caesar Salad.

Storage and Shelf Life

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. If you plan to store leftovers, it’s best to keep the chicken and salad separate to prevent the greens from wilting. When storing, keep the dressing on the side as well.

If you have leftover grilled chicken that’s not already on the salad, you can store it separately in the refrigerator for 3-4 days

. Reheat it in the microwave or on the grill before serving.

Side Dishes and Pairings for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

While BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a well-rounded meal on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience:

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A classic BBQ side, grilled corn complements the smoky flavor of the chicken and adds an extra touch of sweetness to the meal.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the tangy BBQ sauce and fresh veggies.
• Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread makes for a perfect side to scoop up any extra dressing and enjoy with the salad.
• Watermelon Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with watermelon, cucumber, and mint is a light and refreshing complement to the BBQ flavors.

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Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines the smoky goodness of grilled chicken with the freshness of crisp vegetables and a tangy dressing. It’s perfect for a summer meal, a family dinner, or as a dish to impress guests at a BBQ or potluck. With its easy-to-follow recipe and endless customization options, BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.