BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with vibrant vegetables and a tangy dressing. This salad is perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or meal prep for the week ahead. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for any occasion, while the healthy ingredients keep your meals light and satisfying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and cook time, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The smoky BBQ chicken paired with fresh veggies creates a delicious balance that will please everyone at the table.
- Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or a side, this salad fits seamlessly into any meal plan or gathering.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, fresh greens, and wholesome toppings, this salad supports your health goals without compromising on taste.
- Grill-Friendly: Ideal for outdoor cooking, these skewers can be grilled for an added smoky flavor that’s perfect for summer barbecues.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden skewers
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Wooden skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and vegetables together; they provide structure to the skewers while grilling.
- Grill or grill pan: These are crucial for achieving that smoky flavor in the chicken; grilling also allows you to cook multiple skewers at once.
- Mixing bowl: You’ll need this to combine your sauces and dressings efficiently before adding them to your salad.
- Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping vegetables and preparing your ingredients quickly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided, such as Primal Kitchen)
- 8 (6-inch) wooden skewers (pre-soaked)
For the Dressing
- 1 cup avocado oil
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
For the Salad Base
- 4 ears corn
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce (from about 2 small heads)
- 6 green onions (thinly sliced green parts only)
- 16 ounces (about 2 cups) quartered grape tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup loosely packed freshly chopped cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
- 1 avocado (peeled, seeded, and diced into medium cubes)
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Skewers
- Begin by cutting the boneless chicken breasts into cubes.
- In a bowl, mix together avocado oil, kosher salt, and half of the BBQ sauce.
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until fully coated.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto pre-soaked wooden skewers.
Step 2: Grill the Skewers
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked through.
- Brush with remaining BBQ sauce during grilling for extra flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together avocado oil, egg, coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, minced garlic, dill fronds, parsley, and black pepper until well combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
- While skewers are cooking, prepare your salad base by combining corn kernels (grilled if desired), romaine lettuce, green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans, cilantro leaves, basil, and diced avocado in a large bowl.
- Once chicken skewers are done cooking, remove from grill and let cool slightly before serving atop the salad.
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing—a perfect centerpiece for any meal! Enjoy every bite of this hearty yet healthy dish!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Serving BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can be both fun and creative. This salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple family dinner.
Individual Bowls
- Create individual servings in bowls for a personalized touch.
- Top each bowl with freshly diced avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro for extra flavor.
Family Style
- Serve the salad in a large bowl at the center of the table.
- Let guests help themselves, encouraging a casual dining experience.
With Tortilla Chips
- Offer crunchy tortilla chips on the side.
- Guests can scoop up salad with chips for a delightful texture contrast.
As a Wrap
- Provide large lettuce leaves for wrapping.
- Guests can fill their wraps with salad and enjoy a low-carb option.
Paired with Grilled Veggies
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
- This adds more variety and enhances the meal’s presentation.
How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
To make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad even better, consider these helpful tips.
- Marinate the chicken: Allow the chicken to soak in BBQ sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This enhances the flavor significantly.
- Use fresh herbs: Incorporate fresh dill and parsley right before serving for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
- Grill on high heat: Ensure your grill is hot before adding skewers. This will give you nice char marks and juicy chicken.
- Customize toppings: Feel free to add other toppings like sliced jalapeños or crumbled feta cheese for added flavor variations.
- Serve chilled: For a refreshing twist, chill the salad slightly after assembling it. This works especially well on hot summer days.
- Experiment with dressings: Besides BBQ sauce, try using vinaigrette or ranch dressing as alternatives to complement the flavors further.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Pairing sides with your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and pairs well with BBQ flavors.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and balances the richness of the salad.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a delightful contrast in texture and taste.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings lightness and natural sweetness to your meal.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa pilaf adds protein and makes for a filling side dish without overpowering the main salad.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread offers a satisfying crunch and complements the smoky flavors of the chicken skewers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and presentation.
- Using unseasoned chicken – Always marinate your chicken in BBQ sauce ahead of time. This ensures maximum flavor infusion.
- Neglecting skewer soaking – Skewers should be soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. This simple step enhances your grilling experience.
- Overcrowding skewers – Avoid packing too much chicken on each skewer. Leave space between pieces for even cooking and better caramelization.
- Ignoring fresh herbs – Fresh herbs add a burst of flavor. Don’t skip them; they elevate the salad from good to great.
- Not prepping ingredients ahead – Taking time to prepare all ingredients before grilling saves hassle during cooking. It makes everything run smoother.
- Skipping the quality BBQ sauce – The right BBQ sauce makes a world of difference. Opt for high-quality brands for the best results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3–4 days for optimal freshness.
Freezing BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Best used within 2–3 months for peak quality.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave – Use medium power and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop – Heat on medium-low, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.
What can I substitute for chicken in BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
You can use tofu, shrimp, or even tempeh as a protein alternative. Each will absorb the flavors beautifully.
Can I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and prep veggies a day prior. Just assemble before serving for freshness.
How do I ensure my BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is healthy?
Opt for lean chicken breasts and plenty of fresh vegetables. Use low-sugar BBQ sauce for a healthier version.
What sides pair well with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Consider serving with grilled corn on the cob, baked sweet potatoes, or a light pasta salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize it with different proteins and veggies according to your taste preferences. Whether it’s a summer cookout or a cozy dinner at home, this salad will surely delight your palate!
Print
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a vibrant, refreshing dish that brings together tender grilled chicken, colorful vegetables, and a zesty dressing. Perfect for summer meals, family gatherings, or meal prep, this salad offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 cups romaine lettuce
- 4 ears corn
- 16 ounces grape tomatoes
- 1 avocado
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided)
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 6 green onions (thinly sliced green parts only)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1/4 cup loosely packed freshly chopped cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into cubes and marinate in avocado oil, salt, and half of the BBQ sauce.
- Thread marinated chicken onto pre-soaked skewers.
- Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 10–15 minutes, brushing with remaining BBQ sauce.
- In a large bowl, combine corn (grilled if desired), lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, basil, and diced avocado.
- Once skewers are cooked, let cool slightly before placing them atop the salad.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (250g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
