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BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe

If you are craving a meal that bursts with smoky, tangy flavors and vibrant freshness, the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe is exactly what you need. This delightful dish perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken grilled to perfection with a colorful mix of crisp greens and garden-fresh veggies. Each bite offers a mouthwatering combination of textures and tastes that makes it both satisfying and light. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for gatherings, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe hits the spot every time.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to complement and enhance the smoky chicken, adding layers of texture, flavor, and freshness that keep every bite exciting.

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes for easy skewering and even cooking.
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce: Choose your favorite brand for that signature smoky, tangy glaze; plus extra for brushing while grilling.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps keep the chicken juicy and adds a lovely richness to the marinade.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle punch of flavor that deepens the taste.
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds warmth and smokiness to enhance the BBQ vibe.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens: Provides a crisp, peppery base that balances the grilled chicken.
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Juicy bursts of sweetness that brighten the salad.
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced: Adds refreshing crunch and hydrates the palate.
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mild zing without overpowering the dish.
  • 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy texture that rounds out the salad beautifully.
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese (optional): Adds a tangy or sharp finish depending on your choice.
  • Ranch or creamy dressing of choice: Perfect for drizzling and tying all the flavors together.
  • Skewers (wooden or metal): Essential for grilling the chicken evenly and creating that appealing presentation.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Start by tossing the chicken cubes in a bowl with barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This marinade infuses each bite with bold flavors that define the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the marinade work its magic — or up to 2 hours if you can wait that long.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers and Grill

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning. Meanwhile, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a bit of space between pieces for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with additional barbecue sauce to achieve that perfect caramelized glaze and slightly charred edges.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

While the chicken cooks, gather your mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onion, avocado slices, and cheese, and arrange them beautifully in bowls or on a large platter. The vibrant colors alone will get your taste buds excited.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Once the chicken is grilled, let the skewers rest for about 5 minutes to lock in the juices. Then either place the skewers on top of the salad or remove the chicken pieces and scatter them across the greens. Drizzle generously with your favorite ranch or creamy dressing, and get ready to dig into the freshest BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe you’ve ever tasted!

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Adding the right garnishes can elevate this salad from delicious to unforgettable. Think fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley, a sprinkle of toasted nuts for crunch, or a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice to brighten things up just before serving.

Side Dishes

This salad shines as a main dish, but pairing it with simple sides like warm garlic bread, grilled corn on the cob, or even a light quinoa pilaf turns your meal into a hearty feast without any fuss.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the salad in individual mason jars for a picnic-style treat or build it on a large wooden board for a communal dining experience. Threading the chicken pieces in colorful patterns on the skewers also adds a playful touch that guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftovers from your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the dressing separate if possible to maintain crispness of the salad greens.

Freezing

While the grilled chicken can be frozen separately, the fresh salad ingredients do not freeze well. To maximize convenience, freeze the cooked chicken skewers or pieces in individual portions, then thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy with fresh veggies.

Reheating

Reheat chicken skewers gently on a grill or in the oven to preserve juiciness, about 5 to 7 minutes at moderate heat. Avoid microwaving to keep that charred texture intact. Then simply toss with fresh salad ingredients for a quick meal.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of protein for the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe?

Absolutely! This recipe adapts beautifully to shrimp, tofu, or even steak. Just adjust cooking times accordingly and enjoy the same fresh, vibrant salad base.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you verify that your barbecue sauce and dressing do not contain gluten ingredients.

How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?

At least 30 minutes is sufficient for an infusion of flavor, but marinating up to 2 hours intensifies the taste without compromising texture.

Can I prepare the salad in advance?

You can prep the salad greens and vegetables ahead of time, but it’s best to assemble the full salad and add the grilled chicken and dressing just before serving to keep everything fresh and crisp.

What dressing pairs best with this salad?

A creamy ranch dressing complements the smoky chicken wonderfully, but a light vinaigrette works perfectly if you prefer something lighter and tangier.

Final Thoughts

I truly encourage you to make the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe your next go-to dish, whether for a casual family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. It’s one of those recipes that feels both comforting and fresh, with flavors that celebrate simple ingredients done right. Enjoy the smoky, juicy chicken paired with vibrant salad goodness—you’ll be coming back for seconds, guaranteed!

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BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe


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4 from 26 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A flavorful and hearty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad featuring juicy grilled chicken marinated in barbecue sauce, served atop fresh mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado, finished with a sprinkle of cheese and your choice of dressing. Perfect for a light yet satisfying main course with a smoky grilled flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • ½ cup barbecue sauce (plus more for brushing)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers (wooden or metal, wooden soaked in water for 20 minutes)

Salad

  • 4 cups mixed salad greens
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup cucumber, sliced
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • ¼ cup crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • Ranch or creamy dressing of choice for serving


Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken cubes with barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Place the skewers on the hot grill, cooking for 10–12 minutes total. Turn occasionally and brush with extra barbecue sauce to enhance flavor and moisture, cooking until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred on the edges.
  4. Assemble the Salad: While the chicken grills, arrange the mixed greens on individual plates or a large platter. Top with halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumber, thinly sliced red onion, avocado slices, and sprinkle with cheese if using.
  5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain juices. Place the skewers on top of the salad or carefully remove chicken pieces from skewers and scatter over the salad. Drizzle with your favorite ranch or creamy dressing and serve immediately.

Notes

  • This salad is delicious served cold, making it ideal for meal prep and make-ahead lunches.
  • For a different protein variation, substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp.
  • Use a vinegar-based dressing if you prefer a lighter option than a creamy dressing.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 30 minutes marinating)
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

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