BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect dish for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or a light meal after a workout. This salad combines tender grilled chicken skewers with vibrant veggies and creamy avocado, creating a delightful mix of flavors and textures. It’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this salad can be ready in under an hour.
- Flavorful Combination: The juicy BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables and zesty dressing.
- Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or side dish; it fits any meal occasion.
- Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this salad is both filling and healthy.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for sharing at parties or gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, gather the essential tools needed to create this delicious dish. Having the right equipment streamlines your cooking process and ensures great results.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Wooden skewers
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Basting brush
- Knife and cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Wooden skewers: Essential for grilling the chicken; they help hold everything together while cooking.
- Grill or grill pan: Provides that perfect charred flavor that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients without mess; make mixing easy and efficient.
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 (grilled)
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (for corn)
- 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
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- In a bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of avocado oil with kosher salt.
- Toss the chicken pieces in the mixture until well coated.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto pre-soaked wooden skewers.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Brush each skewer with a little BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Grill for about 10–15 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through.
Step 3: Make the Dressing
- In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of avocado oil, egg, coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, minced garlic, dill fronds, parsley, and black pepper.
- Whisk until smooth and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare Vegetables
- Grill corn until lightly charred; let cool before cutting kernels off.
- In a large bowl, add romaine lettuce, green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans, cilantro leaves, basil leaves, and diced avocado.
Step 5: Assemble Your Salad
- Drizzle dressing over the salad base and toss gently to combine.
- Top with grilled chicken skewers before serving.
Enjoy your flavorful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Serving BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful way to enjoy a fresh, healthy meal. This vibrant salad can be customized in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
Family Style
- Serve the salad on a large platter, allowing everyone to help themselves to their favorite ingredients.
Individual Bowls
- Create individual servings in bowls for a more personalized touch. Layer the ingredients for a beautiful presentation.
Add Extra Toppings
- Provide extra toppings like crumbled feta cheese or sliced jalapeños for guests who want to add more flavor and texture.
Pair with Dressing Options
- Offer different dressings on the side, such as ranch or balsamic vinaigrette, so everyone can customize their salad further.
Refreshing Beverages
- Complement the salad with refreshing beverages like iced tea or lemonade for a complete summer meal experience.
Outdoor Picnic Style
- Pack the salad into portable containers for an outdoor picnic. It’s easy to transport and perfect for enjoying in nature.

How to Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
To make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad even better, consider these simple tips for perfection.
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Marinate the Chicken: Let the chicken marinate in BBQ sauce for at least an hour before grilling. This will infuse more flavor into each bite.
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Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil and cilantro just before serving. They add brightness and enhance the overall taste of the salad.
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Grill Corn on the Cob: Grilling corn enhances its sweetness. Cut it off the cob and mix it into the salad for added texture.
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Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality BBQ sauce and organic vegetables whenever possible. They make a noticeable difference in flavor.
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Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can elevate your dish significantly.
Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Pairing side dishes with your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options you can consider:
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Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the salad perfectly.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made from seasonal fruits offers a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and creaminess, making it an excellent side choice.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa pilaf with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy accompaniment that pairs well with grilled flavors.
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Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables bring out smoky flavors that harmonize beautifully with the BBQ chicken skewers.
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Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer a satisfying crunch alongside your fresh salad.
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Deviled Eggs: Creamy deviled eggs add richness and are always a crowd-pleaser during summer gatherings.
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Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil on skewers make for an easy-to-eat side that meshes well with your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding these mistakes will help you master your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.
- Skipping the marination step: Not allowing the chicken to marinate in BBQ sauce can lead to bland flavors. Always let the chicken soak up the marinade for at least 30 minutes.
- Overcrowding skewers: Placing too much chicken on each skewer may prevent even cooking. Stick to 3-4 pieces per skewer for better results.
- Ignoring vegetable freshness: Using wilted or old vegetables can ruin your salad’s appeal. Always opt for fresh, vibrant ingredients.
- Choosing low-quality BBQ sauce: A poor-quality sauce can diminish the overall flavor of your dish. Invest in a good brand like Primal Kitchen for the best taste.
- Not pre-soaking wooden skewers: If you skip soaking skewers, they may catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use.

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 a freezer-safe container or bag.
- Best consumed within 1-2 months for quality retention.
Reheating BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat skewers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about preparing and enjoying BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.
What is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delicious and healthy meal that combines grilled chicken skewers with fresh vegetables and a flavorful dressing, perfect for summer dining.
Can I customize my BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies, nuts, or toppings to make it your own. You can also substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu.
How do I make the dressing for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
The dressing combines avocado oil, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, herbs, and spices. Whisk together until well blended and drizzle over your salad.
Is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad kid-friendly?
Yes! The tasty flavors of BBQ chicken make this salad appealing to kids. You can adjust spice levels as needed to suit their tastes.
Final Thoughts
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. Perfect as a light dinner or lunch option, you can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients. Try it out and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that brings joy to any table!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful blend of tender grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and creamy avocado, making it the perfect dish for summer gatherings or healthy weeknight dinners. This salad is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and healthy fats, satisfying your hunger while keeping your meal light. With its colorful presentation and zesty flavors, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Whether served family-style or in individual bowls, this salad can be customized with your favorite toppings and dressings for a refreshing dining experience.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil (plus extra for corn)
- 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided)
- 4 ears grilled corn
- 8 cups romaine lettuce
- Grape tomatoes, black beans, avocado, green onions
- Fresh herbs: cilantro and basil
Instructions
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with avocado oil and kosher salt.
- Thread marinated chicken onto pre-soaked skewers.
- Grill skewers over medium-high heat for 10-15 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce.
- Grill corn until charred; cool and cut kernels off.
- In a large bowl, mix lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, basil, and diced avocado.
- Drizzle dressing over the salad base and toss gently before topping with grilled chicken.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 90mg







