This Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fun and colorful dish! Juicy grilled chicken pieces are skewered and tossed with fresh veggies and a tasty dressing. It’s perfect for sunny days!
For me, the best part is mixing all those vibrant veggies with the sweet BBQ flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal that feels like a treat. Plus, who doesn’t love skewers? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for skewers. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey breast works too! You could also use tofu or tempeh for a plant-based version.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for a personal touch. If you’re avoiding sugar, try a sugar-free variety or homemade BBQ sauce using tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
Vegetables: Romaine lettuce is crisp and perfect, but feel free to substitute with spinach or mixed salad greens if you prefer. For added crunch, try bell peppers or cucumbers!
Greek Yogurt: For the dressing, Greek yogurt is creamy and tasty. If you need a dairy-free option, use coconut yogurt or a vegan mayo.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but with the right approach, you’ll nail it! Start by cutting your chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Marinating in BBQ sauce before grilling adds flavor.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 mins to prevent burning.
- Preheat your grill for medium-high heat, which helps achieve perfect grill marks.
- Grill chicken skewers for 4-6 minutes per side. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F for safety.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after grilling. This keeps the juices inside!
Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup grilled corn kernels (about 1 ear, grilled and cut off the cob)
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
For the Dressing:
- 1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Time Needed:
This Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and grilling the chicken, plus another 10-15 minutes to assemble the salad and make the dressing. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Skewers:
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well-coated. Thread the chicken evenly onto the skewers. Once ready, brush the skewers generously with BBQ sauce on all sides.
2. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked with nice grill marks. Be sure to brush on more BBQ sauce while grilling if you want. Once done, remove from heat and let the skewers rest for a few minutes.
3. Grill the Corn (if not prepared):
If you haven’t already grilled the corn, brush it with a bit of olive oil and grill, turning occasionally, until it is slightly charred, about 8-10 minutes. Let it cool for a moment, then cut the corn off the cob.
4. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, dill (if using), salt, and pepper until it’s smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste!
5. Assemble the Salad:
In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, grilled corn, and black beans. Drizzle the yogurt dressing over the salad and toss gently to ensure everything is well-coated.
6. Serve:
Now, divide the salad among your plates and place two BBQ chicken skewers on top of each serving. Finish off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious meal!
Enjoy this flavorful and fresh BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that balances smoky grilled chicken with crisp veggies and a creamy tangy dressing!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I Use Different Proteins for the Skewers?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of chicken, you can use shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp cooks quickly, while beef may need a bit more time!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the chicken skewers separate from the salad to maintain freshness. Reheat the chicken on a grill or in a microwave before serving!
Can I Make This Salad in Advance?
You can prep the chicken skewers and salad ingredients ahead of time! Assemble the salad without the dressing and store in the fridge. Grill the chicken earlier and reheat when ready to serve, then just add the dressing before enjoying!
What Can I Substitute for Greek Yogurt in the Dressing?
If you’re looking for a substitute for Greek yogurt, you can use sour cream, avocado, or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to match your taste preferences!
