BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Summer is here, and with it comes the joy of outdoor cooking and fresh flavors. The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate. I remember those sunny afternoons when my family would gather around the grill, laughter mingling with the aroma of sizzling chicken. This salad is perfect for those busy days when you want something quick yet impressive. It’s a delightful way to enjoy grilled chicken, vibrant veggies, and a tangy BBQ twist. Trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a game-changer for summer meals. It’s quick to prepare, taking just over 40 minutes from start to finish. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and fresh veggies creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether it’s a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this salad is sure to impress.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun of cooking! For this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, you’ll need a mix of fresh and flavorful components that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken breasts: The star of the show! Tender and juicy, they soak up the BBQ sauce perfectly.
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade version for that smoky, sweet flavor.
- Olive oil: A splash of this adds richness and helps the chicken grill nicely.
- Garlic powder: For that aromatic kick that elevates the chicken’s flavor.
- Onion powder: A subtle sweetness that complements the garlic.
- Smoked paprika: This gives a lovely depth and a hint of smokiness to the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, enhancing all the flavors.
- Mixed salad greens: A vibrant base! Use romaine, spinach, and arugula for a mix of textures.
- Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a pop of color and freshness.
- Cucumber: Crisp and refreshing, it balances the richness of the chicken.
- Red onion: Thinly sliced for a bit of bite and color contrast.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Adds creaminess and a savory touch.
- Corn: Sweet kernels bring a delightful crunch; canned or frozen works well.
- Avocado: Creamy and rich, it’s the perfect finishing touch for this salad.
Feel free to get creative! You can substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. If you like a spicy kick, toss in some sliced jalapeños or opt for a spicy BBQ sauce. For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Creating this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, combine the chicken with BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinating for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more!
Step 2: Prepare the Grill
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This step is crucial for achieving those beautiful grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken Skewers
Once the grill is hot, thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want them to be cooked through and have those lovely grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe eating.
Step 4: Assemble the Salad
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time to prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the mixed salad greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and corn. Toss everything together gently to mix the flavors. This colorful medley will be the perfect base for your skewers!
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. To serve, place a generous portion of the salad on each plate. Top it with a couple of chicken skewers and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce. Don’t forget to add the diced avocado on top for that creamy finish. Enjoy your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with family and friends!
Tips for Success
- Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces for unique tastes.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; it helps with even cooking.
- Let the grilled chicken rest before serving to retain juices.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for that smoky flavor. A stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers are great. If using wooden, soak them first to prevent burning.
- Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the salad.
- Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly.
Variations
- Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even beef for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Delight: Make it entirely plant-based by using grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms instead of meat.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce to heat things up.
- Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an aromatic twist.
- Grain Boost: Incorporate cooked quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Pair with grilled corn on the cob or a light pasta salad for a complete meal.
- Drinks: Refresh with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine to complement the BBQ flavors.
- Presentation: Serve on a large platter for a family-style meal, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve. The salad can also be prepped ahead; just keep the dressing separate until serving to maintain freshness.
What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try teriyaki sauce for a sweet twist or a homemade vinaigrette for a lighter option. You can even use a spicy sauce if you want to kick up the heat!
Is this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad gluten-free?
Yes, this salad is gluten-free! Just ensure that the BBQ sauce you choose is labeled gluten-free. Most brands offer gluten-free options, so you can enjoy this dish worry-free.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. This ensures the flavors soak in properly and the chicken cooks evenly on the grill.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To amp up the heartiness, consider adding cooked grains like quinoa or farro. You can also toss in some black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber. This way, you’ll have a satisfying meal that keeps you full longer!
Final Thoughts
The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of summer flavors. Each bite brings together the smoky goodness of grilled chicken and the freshness of crisp veggies, creating a delightful harmony that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this salad is sure to impress. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. So fire up that grill, gather your loved ones, and savor the joy of good food and great company!
Print
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: A Flavorful Summer Delight!
- Total Time: 42 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and refreshing BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad perfect for summer gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup corn (canned or frozen, thawed)
- 1 avocado, diced
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad by combining the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, cheddar cheese, and corn in a large bowl.
- Once the chicken skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- To serve, place a generous portion of the salad on each plate, top with a couple of chicken skewers, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce. Add diced avocado on top.
Notes
- For added flavor, try marinating the chicken overnight.
- You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- For a spicy kick, add sliced jalapeños to the salad or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
