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BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

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This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad combines smoky grilled chicken with fresh, crunchy veggies and creamy dressing for a light yet flavorful meal. It’s a colorful, customizable dish that brings summer barbecue vibes to your salad bowl.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Salad
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

  • For the chicken skewers:
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • For the salad base:
  • 6 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, arugula, or blend)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, sliced
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (grilled, fresh, or canned)
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • Optional: 1/2 cup black beans, tortilla strips, or sliced jalapeños
  • For the dressing:
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing, BBQ ranch, or mix BBQ sauce with olive oil and lime juice

Instructions

  1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
  2. In a bowl, toss chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
  3. Thread chicken onto skewers. Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until nearly cooked through.
  4. Brush with barbecue sauce and grill for 1–2 more minutes to caramelize. Remove and rest.
  5. Assemble the salad base in a large bowl or platter with greens, tomatoes, cucumber, onion, corn, avocado, cheese, and any extras.
  6. Place chicken skewers on top or remove chicken from skewers and toss into the salad.
  7. Drizzle with dressing just before serving and lightly toss.

Notes

  • Substitute grilled shrimp, steak, tofu, or mushrooms for the chicken.
  • Add toasted pepitas or crispy onions for extra crunch.
  • Include cooked quinoa or grilled sweet potatoes for a heartier version.
  • Store chicken and salad separately to maintain freshness.
  • Serve cold or warm — it tastes great either way.

Nutrition