If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant, and utterly satisfying meal that screams summer, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. Juicy grilled chicken skewers lacquered in smoky BBQ sauce are nestled atop a crisp bed of greens, studded with sweet corn, creamy avocado, and sharp cheddar. It’s the kind of dish that makes you smile with every bite, delivering a medley of textures and flavors that come together effortlessly for a crowd-pleasing lunch or dinner.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is how these simple, familiar ingredients work together to create something completely crave-worthy. Each one plays an important role, from the juicy chicken to the colorful veggies and creamy cheese. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless, and cut into cubes for quick, even grilling and plenty of flavor in every bite.
BBQ sauce: The heart of this salad, infusing the chicken with sweet, smoky, and tangy notes. Use your favorite brand or homemade!
Mixed greens: Adds freshness and a variety of textures—think crisp romaine, peppery arugula, or tender spinach.
Cherry tomatoes: Halved for juicy pops of sweetness that balance the savory chicken and tangy BBQ sauce.
Corn kernels: Grilled for smokiness or canned for convenience, they bring sweetness and a summery touch.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, sharp, and rich—cheddar ties all the flavors together with a creamy finish.
Red onion: Thinly sliced for crunch and a subtle bite that brightens up the salad.
Avocado: Sliced for creamy texture and a dose of healthy fats, making the salad extra satisfying.
Olive oil: For tossing the greens, lending a silky mouthfeel and helping the seasonings stick.
Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing out the best in every ingredient—don’t skip these!
Wooden skewers: Soak them if grilling to prevent burning; they make handling the chicken a breeze and add a fun touch.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Skewers

Start by cutting your boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you have time, marinate the chicken cubes in a bit of BBQ sauce for 30 minutes for even more flavor. While the chicken soaks up all that smoky goodness, soak your wooden skewers in water to prevent them from charring on the grill.

Step 2: Assemble and Grill the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the wooden skewers, leaving just a little space between each piece for even cooking. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the skewers with BBQ sauce, then grill for about 4–5 minutes per side. Be generous with the sauce, brushing more on as they cook. You’re looking for a glossy, caramelized finish and slightly charred edges. Check that the chicken is cooked through with no pink inside.

Step 3: Build the Salad Base

In a large bowl, toss your mixed greens with olive oil, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing keeps the flavors fresh and lets the toppings shine. Arrange the dressed greens on individual plates or a big communal platter—whatever feels more fun for your meal.

Step 4: Add the Toppings

Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes, sweet corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and creamy avocado slices over the greens. Each topping adds a burst of color and flavor, turning your salad into a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Step 5: Top with Grilled Chicken and Finish

Carefully slide the finished BBQ chicken off the skewers and arrange it right on top of your loaded salad. Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if you’re feeling saucy, then serve immediately while the chicken is still warm and those salad greens are crisp.

How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness. For a little crunch, try adding toasted pepitas or crispy tortilla strips. A squeeze of lime over the top is a zesty way to brighten up the whole BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.

Side Dishes

This salad is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Think warm garlic bread, grilled veggies, or a cool fruit salad. For a casual gathering, serve it alongside corn on the cob or a bowl of tortilla chips and guac.

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful twist, serve the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in individual mason jars or layered in small trifle bowls for a picnic. If you’re hosting, arrange the toppings buffet-style so everyone can build their own custom salad masterpiece. It’s a fun, interactive way to enjoy all the flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, store the chicken separately from the greens to keep everything fresh. Place the chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keep the salad greens and toppings in another container so they don’t get soggy.

Freezing

While it’s best to enjoy the salad fresh, you can freeze the cooked BBQ chicken pieces for up to 2 months. Just let them cool completely before transferring to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating and adding to a fresh salad base.

Reheating

To reheat the chicken, simply warm the pieces in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through. Avoid reheating the greens or toppings, as they’re best served chilled and crisp alongside your warm, saucy chicken.

FAQs

Can I use a different kind of protein for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

Absolutely! Try swapping in shrimp, tofu, or even steak cubes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time so your protein stays moist and tender. The flavors of the salad work well with a variety of grilled proteins.

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use?

Pick your favorite! Whether you love smoky, spicy, or sweet, any good-quality BBQ sauce will work. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own or even mixing a couple of store-bought sauces to create your perfect blend.

Can I prepare BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! Grill the chicken skewers a few hours in advance and keep them chilled. Set up all your toppings and greens, then assemble just before serving. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for gatherings.

Are there gluten-free options for this salad?

Yes! This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is naturally gluten-free, as long as your BBQ sauce is certified gluten-free. Double-check ingredient labels to be safe, especially if you’re serving guests with allergies.

Can I make this salad dairy-free?

You can easily make it dairy-free by skipping the cheddar or using a plant-based cheese alternative. The salad will still be full of flavor and just as satisfying without the cheese.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a table to enjoy a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s bursting with color, flavor, and good vibes. Give this recipe a try—you might just find it becomes your new favorite way to celebrate the flavors of summer!

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe

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4.6 from 27 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

A vibrant and flavorful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad featuring juicy grilled chicken cubes brushed with tangy BBQ sauce, served atop a fresh bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, corn, cheddar cheese, red onion, and creamy avocado slices. Perfect for a healthy, protein-packed meal with a delightful smoky finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Marinade

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for brushing)
Wooden skewers (soaked if grilling)

Salad

4 cups mixed greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup corn kernels (grilled or canned)
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1 avocado, sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Grill and Chicken: Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the chicken pieces onto wooden skewers and brush generously with BBQ sauce to coat all sides.
Grill the Chicken Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side. Continue brushing with additional BBQ sauce as the chicken cooks, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
Prepare the Salad Base: While the chicken is grilling, toss the mixed greens in a large bowl with olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. This light dressing enhances the freshness of the greens without overpowering the BBQ flavors.
Assemble the Salad: Arrange the dressed greens on serving plates or a large platter. Top evenly with halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, shredded cheddar cheese, thinly sliced red onion, and avocado slices.
Serve: Once the chicken skewers are cooked, remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and scatter them over the salad. Drizzle additional BBQ sauce on top, if desired, and serve the salad immediately for the best taste and texture.

Notes

For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce for 30 minutes before threading and grilling.
Add black beans to the salad for added protein and texture.
Substitute cheddar cheese with feta for a tangier flavor profile.
Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Serve with a wedge of lime for a citrusy brightness if desired.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course, Salad
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American