A Fresh, Flavor-Packed Salad Topped with Juicy Grilled Chicken Skewers
Looking for the perfect summer lunch or dinner that strikes the balance between fresh and hearty? This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delivers big on flavor with smoky, charred chicken skewers laid atop a bed of vibrant greens and crisp vegetables. It’s a wholesome, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.
Fire up the grill and get ready to fall in love with this salad that eats like a full meal—perfect for summer barbecues, weekday lunches, or light dinners!
Introduction
When salad feels more like an afterthought than a main course, it’s time to take things up a notch. This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not your typical side dish—it’s a bold, satisfying meal on its own. Packed with juicy BBQ-marinated chicken, fresh veggies, creamy avocado, and a tangy homemade dressing, this recipe blends the smoky flavors of outdoor grilling with the crispness of a garden-fresh salad.
Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner, add more vegetables to your meals, or impress guests at your next cookout, this salad has you covered. It’s balanced, customizable, and undeniably crave-worthy.
Tools Needed, Servings & Cooking Time
Tools You’ll Need:
- Grill or grill pan
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Mixing bowls (small and large)
- Cutting board and knife
- Tongs or spatula
- Small jar or whisk (for dressing)
Serves:
4 people
Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite variety)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
For the Salad:
- 5 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Skewers
If using wooden skewers, begin by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Meanwhile, in a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to coat the chicken evenly. Let it marinate for 15–30 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate if prepping ahead of time.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat.
Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, distributing them evenly.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure even cooking and light char marks. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a slightly crispy exterior. Remove from grill and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Salad
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad base. In a large bowl, toss together:
- Mixed salad greens
- Halved cherry tomatoes
- Cucumber slices
- Thinly sliced red onion
- Diced avocado
- Crumbled feta cheese (optional, but adds a great salty contrast)
Set the salad aside or portion it onto individual plates or bowls.
Step 4: Make the Dressing
In a small bowl or jar, whisk together:
- Olive oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Dijon mustard
- Honey
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Whisk until fully combined and emulsified. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Top each salad plate with one or two grilled chicken skewers. Drizzle the homemade dressing generously over the salad. Serve immediately for the best combination of hot, juicy skewers and cool, crisp veggies.
Recommendations for Recipe Success
Want to make sure your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a smashing success? Follow these expert tips:
- Marinate for flavor: Even 15 minutes of marinating helps infuse the chicken with BBQ flavor. Let it marinate longer for even more depth.
- Soak wooden skewers: This simple step prevents burning and keeps your skewers intact on the grill.
- Use fresh, ripe produce: The better your salad ingredients, the more vibrant your final dish will taste.
- Char it just right: Don’t be afraid of a little char on the chicken—it adds smoky flavor and texture.
- Serve immediately: This salad is best served right after grilling when the chicken is warm and the greens are still crisp.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Make it a meal: Add a slice of grilled bread or a small baked potato for a more filling dish.
- Pair with a drink: Iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp rosé complement this meal beautifully.
- Family-style: Serve all components on a platter so guests can build their own perfect salad.
Storage:
- Chicken: Leftover skewers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven.
- Salad veggies: Store separately from the chicken to avoid wilting.
- Dressing: Keep in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. Shake well before using.
Avoid assembling the salad ahead of time, as the greens can become soggy and avocado may brown. Keep ingredients separated until ready to serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs work just as well and tend to be more juicy and flavorful. Adjust grill time slightly to ensure full cooking.
2. What BBQ sauce is best for this recipe?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce—whether smoky, sweet, spicy, or tangy. For more complexity, try mixing two styles (like sweet and spicy).
3. Can I cook the chicken skewers in the oven?
Absolutely. Preheat the oven to 400°F, place skewers on a baking sheet, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes—if your BBQ sauce and Dijon mustard are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to be sure.
5. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the components in advance (cook chicken, slice veggies, make dressing), but assemble the salad just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the ultimate combination of smoky, savory, and fresh. With juicy marinated chicken grilled to perfection and laid over crisp greens and vibrant vegetables, it’s more than a salad—it’s a full, flavorful meal that’s as healthy as it is satisfying.
Perfect for warm-weather meals, quick lunches, or casual get-togethers, this dish is endlessly versatile and always a hit. Plus, with a tangy homemade dressing and the option to customize the ingredients to your taste, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
