This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the ultimate combination of smoky, grilled goodness and fresh, crisp greens. Juicy, marinated chicken skewers are grilled to perfection, then served over a bed of vibrant veggies with a drizzle of your favorite dressing. It’s a hearty yet refreshing meal that’s perfect for warm days, meal prep, or even weeknight dinners. Trust me, this one’s going to be a staple in your rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Packed with Flavor – The BBQ-marinated chicken brings a smoky, slightly sweet kick to every bite.
- Light Yet Satisfying – A great balance of protein, veggies, and fresh ingredients.
- Perfect for Meal Prep – Make the chicken ahead of time and assemble salads throughout the week.
- Easily Customizable – Switch up the veggies, dressing, or even the protein for endless variations.
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Here’s what you’ll need to bring this fresh and flavorful salad together:
- Chicken Breasts – Boneless, skinless, and perfect for juicy grilled skewers.
- BBQ Sauce – Adds that smoky, slightly tangy sweetness to the chicken.
- Olive Oil – Helps coat the chicken for a perfect grill sear.
- Garlic Powder – Infuses extra depth and flavor.
- Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky note to the marinade.
- Red Onion – Adds a nice crunch and a slightly sweet bite.
- Cherry Tomatoes – Bursting with juicy freshness.
- Cucumber – Keeps things crisp and hydrating.
- Romaine Lettuce – A fresh, crunchy base for the salad.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
- Feta Cheese – For a salty, tangy contrast.
- Cilantro – Brings a fresh, herby brightness.
- Ranch or Lime Dressing – A delicious final drizzle to tie everything together.
Note: Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. Cut the chicken into bite-sized cubes and toss them in the marinade. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for more flavor).
Step 2: Assemble and Grill the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
Step 3: Prepare the Salad Base
While the chicken cooks, chop the romaine lettuce, halve the cherry tomatoes, slice the cucumber, and dice the avocado. Thinly slice the red onion for a mild, crunchy bite.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
Arrange the chopped veggies on a large platter or in individual bowls. Once the chicken skewers are ready, place them on top of the salad.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
Sprinkle with feta cheese, chopped cilantro, and drizzle with your choice of dressing. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- Let the Chicken Marinate – The longer it sits, the more flavorful it will be.
- Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers – This prevents burning on the grill.
- Grill Veggies Too! – Try grilling some bell peppers or corn alongside the skewers for extra flavor.
- Swap Out the Dressing – Try honey mustard, balsamic vinaigrette, or even a creamy avocado dressing.
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This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is delicious on its own, but here are a few ideas to take it up a notch:
- Wrap It Up – Turn this salad into a wrap using a large tortilla.
- Serve with Crusty Bread – A slice of warm, toasted bread pairs perfectly.
- Make It a Bowl – Add cooked quinoa or brown rice for an even heartier meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store the salad ingredients and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While the salad ingredients aren’t freezer-friendly, the grilled chicken skewers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Reheating
Warm the chicken skewers in a pan over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
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Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce? Absolutely! Choose your favorite brand, or make a homemade version if you prefer.
What other proteins can I use? Grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu would all work beautifully in this salad.
Can I make this salad dairy-free? Yes! Simply omit the feta cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What’s the best way to meal prep this salad? Keep the ingredients stored separately and assemble fresh when ready to eat.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fresh, flavorful, and protein-packed meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh off the grill or meal-prepping for the week, this salad is bound to be a hit. Give it a try and let me know what you think!
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BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Equipment
- Grill or Grill Pan
- Skewers
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce plus extra for basting
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
For the Salad
- 8 cups romaine lettuce chopped
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes halved
- 1 cucumber sliced
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 avocado diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1/4 cup ranch or lime dressing
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and paprika. Add chicken, coat well, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them for 30 minutes. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slight char.
- Prepare the Salad: While the chicken is cooking, chop the romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and avocado.
- Assemble the Salad: Arrange the chopped veggies in a bowl or on a serving platter. Place the grilled chicken skewers on top.
- Add the Final Touch: Sprinkle feta cheese, fresh cilantro, and drizzle with ranch or lime dressing before serving.