BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe – A Summer Favorite!

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe: A Summer Must-Try!

Are you looking for a fresh, healthy, and mouthwatering dish to highlight at your next BBQ? BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect combination of smoky, tender chicken with crisp, vibrant greens. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just someone who loves mixing grilled delights with refreshing salads, this recipe will quickly become your go-to summer meal. It’s easy to make and tasty, so it’s great for casual dinners and backyard parties. 

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Why This Recipe Stands Out

This isn’t your average grilled chicken salad. The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad stands out because of its perfect balance:

• Flavor Harmony: The smoky BBQ chicken pairs beautifully with fresh greens, juicy veggies, and a zingy dressing. 
• Healthy & Nourishing: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich vegetables, it’s a wholesome option you can feel good about. 
• Ease of Preparation: You don’t need to be a grill master to nail this recipe. Simple marination and quick grilling are the keys to success. 

Trust me, this salad isn’t just a side dish. It’s a showstopper that could easily be the star of your summer menu! 

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized chunks 
• 3 tablespoons BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade!) 
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup 
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder 
• Salt and pepper, to taste 
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning) 

For the Salad:

• 4 cups mixed salad greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce, or your choice) 
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced 
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced 
• 1 avocado, diced 
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese (optional) 
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped 

For the Dressing:

• 3 tablespoons olive oil 
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or balsamic vinegar 
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 
• 1 teaspoon honey 
• Salt and pepper, to taste 

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken 

• Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl. 
• Combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix well. 
• Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor). 

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers 

• Remove the chicken from the fridge. Thread the marinated pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. 
• Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 375°F). 

Step 3: Grill the Skewers 

• Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks. (Internal temperature should reach 165°F). 
• Brush the skewers with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling for an extra burst of flavor. 

Step 4: Assemble the Salad 

• Place the mixed greens in a large salad bowl or serving platter. 
• Arrange cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, avocado, and feta (if using) on top of the greens. 
• Lay the hot, juicy chicken skewers over the salad. You can serve them on the skewers or remove the chicken pieces before adding them to the salad. 

Step 5: Make the Dressing 

• Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice (or balsamic vinegar), Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. 
• Drizzle the dressing evenly over the salad. 

Step 6: Garnish & Serve 

Sprinkle chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a fresh, aromatic finish. Serve immediately and enjoy! 

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Tips and Tricks for Success

• Marination Matters: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Short on time? Even 30 minutes will do wonders. 
• Preheat the Grill: Always preheat your grill to ensure even cooking and beautiful sear marks. 
• Ingredient Swaps:
  • Use tofu or portobello mushrooms instead of chicken for a vegetarian option. 
  • Swap feta for blue cheese or omit it completely for a dairy-free version. 
• Custom Dressings: Experiment with dressings like ranch, honey mustard, or Greek yogurt-based options for a new twist. 

Read More: 10 Best Chicken Salad Recipes for Easy, Quick Meals

Creative Serving Suggestions

• Family Meals: Serve this salad alongside crusty garlic bread or some corn on the cob for a complete meal. 
• Picnic Perfect: Pack the salad and skewers separately to assemble fresh at your outdoor gatherings. 
• Wrap it Up: Use the salad as a filling for a whole-grain wrap for an easy, portable lunch. 

Fire Up the Grill and Give It a Try!

Here’s a delicious and healthful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! Whether you’re cooking for a weekend BBQ, a quick family dinner, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. 

Do you have any questions or a unique twist on the recipe? Share your thoughts in the comments or tag us on Pinterest with your creations. Let’s celebrate delicious, wholesome food together! 

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