This Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad brings together juicy chicken, colorful veggies, and a tasty BBQ sauce. It’s perfect for a sunny day or any gathering!
Trust me, there’s something fun about eating your salad off a stick! I love to add extra dressing and a sprinkle of cheese on top. It makes every bite so much better!
Making this salad is a breeze! Just grill the chicken and veggies on skewers, toss them on a bed of greens, and enjoy. It’s quick, fresh, and so satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for skewers since they cook evenly. If you want a variation, try using thighs for added flavor or even shrimp for a seafood twist.
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works great here. Homemade sauce can be even better if you have the time! If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Romaine Lettuce: While romaine gives a nice crunch, any salad greens can work. Spinach or mixed greens are great substitutes if you prefer them.
Corn: Fresh corn tastes fantastic when grilled, but you can easily use frozen corn (cooked and thawed) or canned corn if fresh isn’t available.
How Do I Grill Chicken Skewers Without Overcooking Them?
Grilling chicken skewers requires attention to avoid dryness. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium heat. This helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Cook the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning them to get a good char.
- Baste with BBQ sauce towards the end of cooking to avoid burning the sugars.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Don’t forget to let your chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain moisture!
Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh or canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 ear corn, cut into chunks, grilled or roasted
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and another 10-15 minutes for grilling. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Skewers:
In a bowl, toss the chicken chunks with olive oil, salt, pepper, and half of the BBQ sauce. Make sure all the pieces are nicely coated. Then, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between them for even cooking.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or an outdoor grill to medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. During the last couple of minutes, brush on the remaining BBQ sauce to add extra flavor. Once cooked through and slightly charred, remove the skewers from the grill and set them aside.
3. Grill the Corn:
If your corn is not already prepared, you can grill or roast the corn chunks until they are slightly charred and tender. This brings out a delicious sweetness!
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, black beans, diced avocado, grilled corn, and sliced green onions. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine everything evenly.
6. Plate and Serve:
Divide the salad mixture between individual bowls or plates. Place two BBQ chicken skewers on each serving. For a fresh finish, garnish the salad and chicken with a lovely sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves.
7. Enjoy:
Dig in while the chicken is warm! Relish the fresh, smoky, and tangy combination of BBQ chicken and vibrant salad. It’s not just tasty; it’s visually delightful too!
This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual entertaining, offering a healthy twist on a BBQ favorite!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I Use Other Proteins for the Skewers?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different proteins cook at different rates.
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
To make this salad vegetarian, simply omit the chicken skewers and consider adding extra protein like chickpeas or grilled portobello mushrooms. You can also increase the number of black beans for added texture and flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. For the best taste, keep the salad and the chicken skewers separate until you’re ready to eat. Reheat the chicken skewers in a microwave or on the grill to keep them warm.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
You can prep ingredients like the chicken, salad veggies, and dressing ahead of time! Just assemble the salad and grill the chicken right before serving to ensure everything tastes fresh and delicious.
