BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a lively dish that brings together tender, smoky chicken grilled on skewers with fresh, crisp greens and vibrant veggies. The smoky flavor from the BBQ chicken pairs perfectly with the cool crunch of the salad, making every bite exciting and satisfying.
I love making these because they’re so simple yet full of flavor. Grilling the chicken right on skewers makes it easy to cook evenly and gives it a fun, casual feel. I usually marinate the chicken beforehand to get that perfect BBQ taste, and it’s always a hit with everyone at the table.
My favorite way to serve this salad is to drizzle a little tangy dressing over the top and add some extra veggies like cherry tomatoes and cucumber for a fresh pop. It’s great for a light lunch or a weekend barbecue when you want something tasty but not too heavy. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ready in no time!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using chicken breast keeps the skewers lean and tender. You can swap for chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat with a bit more fat.
BBQ Sauce: This adds flavor and moisture. If you want a different taste, try honey mustard or teriyaki sauce. For a lower sugar option, choose a sugar-free BBQ sauce.
Smoked Paprika & Garlic Powder: These spices give a smoky, slightly spicy note. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder works well.
Lettuce Mix: A mix of romaine and leaf lettuces is fresh and crisp. You can use spinach or kale too, just consider massaging kale so it softens.
Avocado: Adds creaminess. If you prefer, you can use sliced cucumber or even diced mango for a fresh twist.
Dressing Ingredients: Mayonnaise forms a creamy base balanced with lime’s acidity and honey’s sweetness. You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise to lighten it up.
How Do You Get Perfectly Grilled Chicken Skewers Every Time?
Grilling chicken on skewers can be tricky. Here’s how to keep the meat juicy and well-cooked without drying it out:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes; longer if possible. This helps flavor and tenderness.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to stop them from burning.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high so the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice char marks.
- Turn the skewers every few minutes to cook all sides evenly without burning.
- Check doneness by cutting into a piece or use a meat thermometer (165°F / 75°C is safe).
Following these steps makes sure your chicken stays juicy and delicious with a slight char on the outside.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for cooking chicken evenly with nice char marks.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating the chicken and tossing the salad ingredients easily.
- Wooden or metal skewers – to hold the chicken cubes; wooden ones need soaking to avoid burning.
- Whisk – great for mixing the dressing smoothly without lumps.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping veggies and slicing chicken into cubes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu on the skewers for a seafood or vegetarian option that grills well.
- Add black beans or cooked quinoa to the salad for extra protein and texture.
- Try swapping the cumin with chili powder or smoked chipotle for a spicier twist.
- Mix in some crumbled feta or shredded cheddar cheese to the salad for a creamy, tangy flavor boost.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed lettuce (romaine, red leaf, green leaf)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or thawed from frozen)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
- 1 small carrot, finely diced or shredded (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to cook the chicken skewers. If you want, you can marinate the chicken for 15-30 minutes before grilling, which adds extra flavor but is optional.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Grill Ready:
Turn on your grill or grill pan and heat it to medium-high. This gives a nice sear to the chicken pieces and helps them cook quickly.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the chicken cubes with olive oil, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well so every piece is coated. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes if you have time—that way the flavors soak in.
3. Thread the Chicken on Skewers:
Carefully skewer the marinated chicken cubes, spacing them slightly for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, be sure they’ve soaked in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place your skewers on the hot grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning every few minutes. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink inside and has nice grill marks on the outside.
5. Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken grills, toss together the lettuce, diced avocado, corn, sliced red onion, cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and carrot (if you’re using it) in a large bowl.
6. Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lime juice, honey, cumin, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
7. Dress the Salad:
Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the grilled BBQ chicken skewers on top of the salad or serve them on the side. Add extra cilantro leaves if you like for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before cutting and marinating. This helps the chicken cook evenly and absorb the flavors.
Can I Make the Salad and Dressing Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients and dressing separately a few hours ahead. Keep the avocado separate until serving to avoid browning. Toss everything together just before serving for the freshest taste.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
If you don’t have BBQ sauce, try teriyaki, honey mustard, or even a spicy chili sauce. Each adds a unique flavor twist while keeping the chicken moist and tasty.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover chicken skewers and salad in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken gently on the stove or microwave, and freshen up the salad by adding extra dressing before serving.
