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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
