This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fresh and tasty way to enjoy grilled chicken! With juicy pieces of chicken, crisp veggies, and a tangy dressing, it’s a fun meal.
Who doesn’t love skewers? It makes eating salad feel like a party! I like to pair mine with some crunchy pita chips for that extra bite. Enjoy it outdoors for a lovely summer vibe! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breast: This recipe calls for chicken breast, but you can also use thighs for a juicier result. Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut if you’re short on time.
BBQ sauce: Store-bought BBQ sauce is convenient, but homemade is always a treat. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for a low-sugar BBQ sauce or make a homemade version with tomatoes and spices.
Romaine lettuce: While Romaine gives a nice crunch, feel free to use other greens like spinach or arugula. They add different flavors to your salad!
Corn: Use fresh corn for the best taste, but canned or frozen corn work just fine. If you have grilled corn leftover, that would add a lovely smoky flavor!
Beans: Black beans add protein and texture. If you prefer, you can swap them for kidney beans or chickpeas for a different taste.
How Do You Grill Chicken Skewers to Perfection?
Grilling chicken skewers might seem tricky, but it’s all about the details! Here are the key points to get that perfect char and juicy chicken:
- Start by marinating the chicken in BBQ sauce and olive oil for at least 30 minutes. This helps lock in flavor.
- If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Keep your grill at medium-high heat. This is the sweet spot for cooking the chicken evenly without drying it out.
- Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally for an even char. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This ensures that juices redistribute and keeps the meat moist.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Salad:
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or grilled)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing or cilantro lime dressing
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to grill the chicken. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick and delightful meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill and Chicken:
First, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, grab a bowl and add the chicken pieces, olive oil, BBQ sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the chicken is well coated in that delicious BBQ goodness.
2. Skewering the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before doing this to prevent them from burning on the grill!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally so the chicken gets nice and charred on all sides. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Make the Salad:
While the chicken is grilling, it’s time for the fun part! In a large bowl, combine your chopped Romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, black beans, red onion, and chopped cilantro. It’s a colorful mix that adds fresh flavors to your salad.
5. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle your ranch or cilantro lime dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine all those tasty ingredients. Add salt and pepper according to your taste for that perfect seasoning!
6. Assemble the Dish:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully take it off the skewers and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, serve the salad in bowls, topped with the BBQ chicken skewers. If you like, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top for extra yum!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you want, add a little extra cilantro as a garnish, and your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is ready to eat! Enjoy your delightful, fresh meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option. Just ensure they’re cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, you can also use turkey breast, though adjust the cooking time as needed!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! You can use metal skewers if you have them, which are reusable and great for grilling. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken pieces directly in a grill pan or on a grill mat if you prefer to skip the skewers altogether.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the salad ingredients in advance! Just assemble everything except for the dressing and keep it covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the dressing just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. You can also grill the chicken a day ahead and reheat it gently before adding it to the salad.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and salad separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to enjoy, you can reheat the chicken in the microwave or enjoy it cold on the salad!
