Looking for a delicious and healthy summer salad that combines smoky BBQ flavors with fresh, vibrant ingredients? The BBQ chicken skewer salad is the perfect choice for your summer eating and dinner recipes. This dish blends tender grilled chicken with crisp vegetables and refreshing greens, offering a meal that’s both satisfying and light. Whether you’re craving a classic BBQ chicken skewer salad or want to experiment with variations like buffalo chicken salad or chopped chicken avocado salad, this post has you covered with recipes, tips, and nutritional insights to make your next meal unforgettable.
Table of Contents
The History and Popularity of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Origins of Chicken Skewers and BBQ Salads
Grilled skewers have been enjoyed worldwide for centuries, with roots tracing back to Middle Eastern kebabs and Asian satays. The concept of cooking meat and vegetables on skewers over an open flame lends itself naturally to outdoor BBQs and casual gatherings. Over time, this tradition merged with the fresh salad craze to create dishes like the BBQ chicken skewer salad, offering the smoky goodness of grilled chicken combined with the freshness of greens and veggies.
Popular Variations in America and Beyond
Across the U.S. and beyond, variations on chicken salads have become summer staples. The Buffalo chicken salad, with its spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing, offers a fiery twist. The Chicken Cobb salad adds layers of flavor with bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese. And for something herbaceous and light, the Half Baked Harvest green goddess salad is a beloved choice. These variations show the versatility of chicken salads for summer dinners and highlight why the BBQ chicken skewer salad holds a special place in summer eating.
Why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a Great Choice
This salad is an excellent option because it combines protein-rich grilled chicken with nutrient-dense vegetables and fresh herbs, creating a balanced meal. It’s perfect for outdoor grilling and healthy eating, especially during warm months when light but fulfilling meals are preferred.
Ingredients and Utensils You’ll Need
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Ingredients
- Chicken breast or thighs (preferably boneless, skinless) marinated in BBQ sauce
- Bell peppers, sliced into chunks (red, green, yellow)
- Red onions, cut into wedges
- Cherry tomatoes
- Mixed greens such as spinach, arugula, and romaine lettuce
- Fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro
- Optional toppings: Feta cheese or sliced avocado for a creamy texture
- Dressing options: Ranch, Caesar, lemon garlic vinaigrette, or a BBQ-based dressing
Additional Ingredients for Variations
- For a Buffalo chicken skewer salad, add buffalo sauce and ranch dressing
- To create a Chicken Cobb salad, include crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and blue cheese crumbles
- For a Chopped chicken avocado salad, add ripe avocado and chopped mixed vegetables
- Herbs and citrus for a fresh twist, as in the Half Baked Harvest green goddess salad
Essential Utensils and Tools
- Barbecue grill or grill pan (indoor grills work well too)
- Skewers (wooden skewers soaked for 30 minutes or reusable metal skewers)
- Mixing bowls for marinating and salad assembly
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Salad tongs for serving
- Measuring spoons and cups
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Preparing the BBQ Chicken Skewers
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine your chicken pieces with BBQ sauce, minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread marinated chicken pieces alternately with bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 6–8 minutes per side, turning carefully, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C). Avoid overcooking to keep the meat juicy.
Assembling the Salad Base
- Wash and dry mixed greens thoroughly to avoid sogginess.
- Chop fresh herbs finely and prepare any optional toppings like feta cheese or avocado slices.
- Prepare your chosen salad dressing, whether ranch, Caesar, or lemon garlic vinaigrette, to add just before serving.
Combining and Serving
- Arrange the mixed greens on a large serving plate or individual bowls.
- Place the grilled chicken skewers on top or carefully remove the chicken from the skewers and slice for easier eating.
- Drizzle the salad with your dressing of choice and sprinkle with fresh herbs and optional toppings.
Tasting Tips
- Allow the grilled chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
- Adjust seasoning with a pinch of salt, pepper, or an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.
Tasty Variations and Chef’s Tips
Delicious Variations to Try
- Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad: Toss grilled chicken in buffalo sauce and serve with ranch dressing and celery slices.
- Chicken Cobb Salad: Add crispy bacon bits, diced hard-boiled eggs, avocado, and blue cheese for a hearty meal.
- Chopped Chicken Avocado Salad: Dice grilled chicken and mix with avocado, tomatoes, corn, and a light lime dressing.
- Green Goddess Salad: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and chives with a tangy green goddess dressing for a refreshing twist.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Use fresh herbs generously; they brighten and elevate the flavor.
- Always soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Avoid overcooking chicken to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
- Prepare dressings at home using fresh ingredients for maximum freshness and flavor.
Presentation and Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a large colorful platter for family-style meals or in individual bowls for portion control.
- Use a variety of colorful vegetables to make the salad visually appealing.
- Garnish with lemon wedges and additional herbs to enhance aroma and presentation.
Storage, Nutritional Info, and FAQs
How to Store and Reheat
- Store grilled chicken skewers and salad greens separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
- Salad greens are best kept fresh and added just before serving.
- Reheat chicken gently on the grill or microwave to avoid drying out the meat.
Nutritional Score and Health Benefits
This salad is a powerhouse of nutrition:
- High in protein thanks to lean grilled chicken.
- Rich in vitamins and antioxidants from mixed greens and fresh vegetables.
- Low in carbohydrates and contains healthy fats when topped with avocado or olive oil dressings.
- Perfect for balanced summer eating and a satisfying dinner option.
| Nutrient | Approximate Amount per Serving | Benefit |
| Calories | 350-450 kcal | Energy |
| Protein | 30-35 g | Muscle repair and satiety |
| Fat | 15-20 g | Healthy fats from dressing |
| Carbohydrates | 10-15 g | Energy with fiber from veggies |
| Vitamins & Minerals | High (Vitamin A, C, K, Folate) | Immune support, antioxidant |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen chicken for skewers?
Yes, but thaw completely before marinating and grilling for even cooking.
What dressing pairs best with BBQ chicken salad?
Ranch and lemon garlic vinaigrettes complement BBQ flavors well; buffalo ranch is ideal for spicy variations.
How long can I store the salad?
Store components separately for up to 2 days; mixed salad with dressing is best consumed fresh.
Can I prepare this salad for meal prep?
Yes, keep grilled chicken and salad greens separate and assemble just before eating to keep freshness.
Conclusion
The BBQ chicken skewer salad is an unbeatable option for those seeking a flavorful, healthy, and easy-to-make summer dinner. With endless variations like buffalo chicken salad, chicken Cobb salad, and chopped chicken avocado salad, you can customize this dish to suit any palate. Give this recipe a try for your next meal and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, fresh, and vibrant flavors!
Feel free to share your favorite BBQ chicken salad variations or any questions in the comments below. Happy grilling and happy eating!
Quote:
“Grilling is not just cooking; it’s an art that brings out the best flavors of fresh ingredients, especially in light summer dishes.” Chef Jamie Oliver
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients
- 500 g boneless skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 bell peppers red, yellow, or green, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 4 cups mixed greens spinach, arugula, romaine
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 100g feta cheese or 1 avocado sliced
- Optional dressing: ranch Caesar, or lemon garlic vinaigrette
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, BBQ sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best flavor).
- Prepare skewers: Thread chicken chunks, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes alternately onto soaked wooden or metal skewers.
- Grill the skewers: Preheat grill to medium-high. Cook skewers for 6–8 minutes per side until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) and vegetables are slightly charred. Avoid overcooking to keep chicken juicy.
- Prepare salad base: While grilling, wash and dry mixed greens. Arrange on serving plates or a large platter.
- Assemble salad: Place grilled skewers on top of greens. Optionally, remove chicken from skewers and slice before adding. Sprinkle with fresh herbs and optional feta or avocado slices.
- Dress and serve: Drizzle your choice of dressing over the salad just before serving. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Dietary Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 7 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Marinate chicken overnight for more intense BBQ flavor.
- Use fresh herbs to brighten the salad and enhance taste.
- Store grilled chicken and salad separately if making ahead; combine before serving.
- Variations: try buffalo sauce instead of BBQ for a spicy buffalo chicken skewer salad.
