Get ready to enjoy a burst of smoky, savory goodness with this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! Perfectly grilled chicken skewers rest on a bed of fresh, crisp greens and vibrant veggies, all brought together with a tangy dressing that elevates every bite. This recipe is not only simple to prepare but also a flavorful way to satisfy your cravings while keeping things light and refreshing. Ideal for quick dinners or casual gatherings, it’s a dish that promises both ease and deliciousness!
Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a game-changer for busy days. It’s quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. The combination of smoky, grilled chicken and fresh veggies creates a burst of flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or hosting friends, this salad is sure to impress!
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a hit. Here’s what you’ll need:
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Cut into cubes for easy grilling.
BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand for that smoky flavor. It’s what makes the chicken sing!
Olive oil: A splash of this adds moisture and helps the spices stick to the chicken.
Garlic powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick. It elevates the flavor profile.
Onion powder: Adds depth and sweetness without the hassle of chopping onions.
Smoked paprika: This spice brings a warm, smoky essence that complements the BBQ sauce beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste for the perfect balance.
Red and yellow bell peppers: These colorful veggies add crunch and sweetness, making the salad visually appealing.
Red onion: For a bit of zing! Cut into wedges for a lovely bite.
Mixed salad greens: A blend of romaine, spinach, and arugula provides a fresh base.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved for a burst of juiciness that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
Feta cheese (optional): Crumbled on top for a creamy, tangy finish. It’s a delightful addition!
Ranch dressing or additional BBQ sauce: Drizzle over the salad for extra flavor. Choose what suits your palate!
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything available for printing. Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences!
Advertisement
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing the chicken cubes in a large bowl. Pour in the 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 deepen the flavors.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken is soaking up all that flavor, it’s time to preheat your grill or grill pan. Set it to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for getting those beautiful grill marks and ensuring the chicken cooks evenly.
Step 3: Assemble the Skewers
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to thread it onto skewers. Alternate between the chicken and the colorful bell peppers and red onion. This not only adds flavor but also makes your skewers look stunning. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Place the assembled skewers on the grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. The veggies should be tender and slightly charred, adding a lovely smoky flavor.
Step 5: Prepare the Salad
While the skewers are grilling, grab a large bowl and toss in the mixed salad greens and halved cherry tomatoes. This fresh base will complement the smoky chicken beautifully. You can also add any other veggies you love!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve the skewers over the salad, sprinkle with feta cheese if you like, and drizzle with ranch dressing or more BBQ sauce. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Tips for Success
Marinate the chicken longer for deeper flavor—up to 2 hours is ideal.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety.
Soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning on the grill.
Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Equipment Needed
Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for cooking the skewers. A stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have an outdoor grill.
Skewers: Use metal or soaked wooden skewers for threading the chicken and veggies.
Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the salad.
Meat Thermometer: Handy for checking the chicken’s doneness.
Variations
Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. Both will absorb the marinade beautifully!
Veggie Delight: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Incorporate jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the marinade for a fiery kick.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Grain Boost: Serve the salad over quinoa or brown rice for added texture and heartiness.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes: Pair with garlic bread or a light pasta salad for a complete meal.
Drinks: A chilled lemonade or iced tea complements the smoky flavors perfectly.
Presentation: Serve on a large platter for a stunning centerpiece, garnished with fresh herbs.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I make the 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 avoid sogginess.
What can I substitute for BBQ sauce?
If you’re looking for alternatives, try teriyaki sauce or a homemade marinade with soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Both options will give your chicken a delicious twist while keeping it flavorful!
Is this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose a gluten-free BBQ sauce. Always check the labels to ensure your ingredients meet your dietary needs.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is best for marinating, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before marinating to ensure even flavor absorption.
How can I make this salad more filling?
To add more substance, consider serving the salad over a bed of quinoa or brown rice. You can also toss in some black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber!
Final Thoughts
Creating this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than just a cooking task; it’s a delightful experience that brings joy to your table. The vibrant colors and smoky flavors create a feast for the senses, making every bite a celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it at a gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies while satisfying everyone’s taste buds. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up the grill, and let this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad become a cherished favorite in your home!
4 cups mixed salad greens (such as romaine, spinach, and arugula)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
1/4 cup ranch dressing or additional BBQ sauce for drizzling
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. 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, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion onto skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables.
Grill the 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 skewers are grilling, prepare the salad by placing the mixed greens and cherry tomatoes in a large bowl.
Once the skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
Serve the skewers over the salad, sprinkle with feta cheese if desired, and drizzle with ranch dressing or additional BBQ sauce.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the marinade.
Substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
