The sizzle of marinated chicken on the grill always signals the arrival of summer in my kitchen. As the smoke wafts through the open window, I can’t help but anticipate the vibrant flavors that await. In an effort to break free from the monotony of takeout, I stumbled upon the perfect summer creation: the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. This dish artfully combines juicy, grilled chicken glazed in bold BBQ sauce with a fresh medley of colorful vegetables. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of everything I adore about summer dining.
Dressed with a homemade herbed ranch that adds a creamy touch, each bite is a delightful medley of smoky and tangy, crunchy and creamy. Whether you’re searching for a quick weeknight dinner or the perfect dish to impress at your next gathering, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad offers an effortless elegance that’s sure to please every palate. Let’s fire up that grill and bring some sunshine to your plate!
Why is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: Juicy grilled chicken meets bold BBQ sauce for a smoky flavor.
Fresh Veggie Medley: Crisp romaine, sweet tomatoes, and crunchy corn make every bite exciting.
Homemade Creaminess: The herbed ranch dressing is a delightful twist on traditional salad dressings.
Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu summer gatherings, this dish is ready in no time.
Health-Conscious Option: Whole30 and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Elevate your summer meals with this vibrant dish that’s guaranteed to impress—explore more about making a delicious herbed ranch to complement it perfectly!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – High in protein, serves as the main protein source in the dish.
• Avocado Oil – Adds moisture and helps adhere seasonings. Substitution: Light olive oil may also work.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
• BBQ Sauce – Provides a sweet, smoky flavor. Substitution: Primal Kitchen brand is preferred for a Whole30 compliant sauce.
• Wooden Skewers – Used for grilling pieces of chicken. Note: Ensure skewers are soaked to prevent burning.
For the Herbed Ranch Dressing
• Light Tasting Oil – Used to create a creamy texture. Note: Avocado oil or light olive oil is recommended.
• Egg – Helps emulsify the ranch dressing for creaminess. Substitution: Omit if using store-bought mayo.
• Coconut Milk – Adds a hint of sweetness and creaminess to the ranch.
• Lemon Juice & Red Wine Vinegar – Provides tanginess to the ranch.
• Onion Powder & Minced Garlic – Adds depth of flavor to the ranch dressing.
• Fresh Herbs (Dill & Parsley) – Complements the ranch with freshness.
For the Salad
• Corn – Fresh veggie to add crunch and sweetness.
• Romaine Lettuce – Provides a crisp base for the salad.
• Green Onions – Contributes a mild onion flavor and texture.
• Grape Tomatoes – Adds juiciness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Black Beans (optional) – Adds protein and fiber, but optional for Whole30.
• Cilantro & Basil – Enhance flavor with fresh herb notes.
• Avocado – Creamy texture and healthy fats, adds richness to the salad.
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a must-try for your next summer meal!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
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Marinate Chicken: Pound the chicken to an even thickness, then cube it. Combine with avocado oil, kosher salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce in a bowl. Marinate for a minimum of 20 minutes or up to overnight for deeper flavor.
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Make Herby Ranch: In a blender, blend avocado oil with the egg (if using). Gradually add coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and minced garlic. Finish by mixing in the fresh herbs until well combined.
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Grill Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates. Grill the marinated chicken skewers and corn, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks, about 10-12 minutes.
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Prepare Salad: In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, sliced green onions, halved grape tomatoes, and black beans (if using). Drizzle with the herbed ranch dressing and toss everything together until well coated.
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Finalize: Cut the grilled corn off the cob and toss it into the salad mixture along with diced avocado. Top with the grilled chicken skewers and serve immediately for a feast of summer flavors.
Optional: Garnish with additional fresh herbs for an extra pop of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this delightful recipe to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
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Vegetarian: Substitute grilled tofu in place of chicken for a satisfying plant-based option.
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Leafy Greens: Swap romaine lettuce for nutrient-rich spinach or peppery arugula to change up the flavor profile and texture.
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Extra Crunch: Instead of corn, add diced bell peppers or crisp cucumbers for an additional layer of crunch and freshness.
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Creamy Alternative: Replace the herbed ranch dressing with a tahini-based sauce for a nutty flavor twist that’s also dairy-free.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes for an extra burst of heat that will wake up your taste buds.
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Protein Boost: Add cooked quinoa or chickpeas to the salad for an extra protein punch that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.
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Nutty Flavor: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
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Fruit Addition: Mix in some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet touch that balances the smoky BBQ flavors perfectly.
Let these variations inspire you to make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad your very own dazzling creation!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Skewer Salads are a time-saving champion for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance in the BBQ sauce mixture, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. The herbed ranch dressing can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just remember to give it a good stir before serving. For the salad components, wash and chop the romaine, green onions, and tomatoes, storing them separately to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, grill the chicken (which only takes about 10-12 minutes) and combine everything for a refreshing meal that tastes just as delicious as if you’d made it all in one go!
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
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Even Thickness: Make sure the chicken is pounded to a uniform thickness for even cooking; this prevents some pieces from drying out while others are undercooked.
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Baste for Flavor: Reserve a bit of BBQ sauce for basting while grilling to enhance the smoky flavor of your chicken skewers.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep a close eye on the chicken while grilling to avoid overcooking, which can lead to dry meat and ruin your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.
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Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning on the grill.
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Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other summer vegetables to the salad, like diced bell peppers or cucumbers, for added crunch and flavor.
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Prep Ahead: Marinate your chicken the night before for a more flavorful experience, and prep the ranch dressing to save time on busy days.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Brighten your dining experience with these delicious companions that complement the flavors of juicy grilled chicken and fresh veggies.
- Garlic Toast: Crispy, buttery slices of garlic bread make for a perfect addition, soaking up any extra herbed ranch dressing.
- Coleslaw: The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw add a refreshing contrast, balancing the smoky flavors of the BBQ chicken. Consider a vinegar-based slaw to keep things light and zesty.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summer favorite, sweet and smoky grilled corn mirrors the flavors in your salad while adding extra texture. Slather it with a touch of butter or herb spread for an indulgent touch.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful selection of seasonal fruits offers a sweet, juicy finish, providing a light and refreshing palate cleanser between bites.
- Iced Tea or Lemonade: These cool, refreshing beverages are perfect for warm evenings and pair beautifully with the bold BBQ flavors without overpowering them.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, these warm, gooey cookies offer the perfect contrast to the savory salad, leaving everyone with a smile.
- Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad tossed with fresh herbs and veggies offers a wonderful side, making the meal feel festive and filling.
These sides not only enhance the flavor profile of your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad but also create a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the salad fresh, add the dressing just before serving.
Freezer: For best quality, freeze the grilled chicken separately. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months, thawing in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat the chicken skewers gently in the oven or a microwave until warmed through, ensuring they remain juicy.
Freshness Tip: To maintain texture and flavor, avoid freezing the salad with dressing or fresh veggies; they don’t freeze well.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Absolutely! For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they are lean, high in protein, and grill beautifully. Make sure to pound the chicken to an even thickness for even cooking, ensuring every bite is juicy and tender.
How long can I store leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in the fridge?
You can store any leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to add the herbed ranch dressing just before serving. This way, your veggies stay crisp and vibrant!
Can I freeze the grilled chicken for the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Absolutely! To freeze your grilled chicken, place it in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before freezing. Thaw it in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to enjoy it again, and gently reheat it to keep it nice and juicy.
What should I do if my BBQ Chicken is dry?
If your BBQ chicken turns out dry, don’t despair! Make a simple medium sauce using BBQ sauce, a splash of chicken broth, and a bit of apple cider vinegar. Heat this mixture in a pan, adding sliced chicken to soak up the flavors. This should help restore some moisture and add flavor back into your meal!
Is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, it definitely is! Just ensure that the BBQ sauce you use is labeled gluten-free. Many popular brands offer gluten-free BBQ sauces that maintain the delicious flavor without compromising on dietary needs. Enjoy this fresh and vibrant salad worry-free!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: A Savory Summer Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Chicken: Pound the chicken to an even thickness, then cube it. Combine with avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce. Marinate for a minimum of 20 minutes or up to overnight.
- Make Herby Ranch: Blend avocado oil with the egg (if using). Gradually add coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Mix in fresh herbs.
- Grill Chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken skewers and corn, turning occasionally, until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
- Prepare Salad: Combine chopped romaine, sliced green onions, halved tomatoes, and black beans. Drizzle with ranch dressing and toss until coated.
- Finalize: Cut grilled corn off the cob and toss into the salad with diced avocado. Top with grilled chicken skewers.