BBQ chicken skewer salad is a fresh and colorful dish that brings together juicy grilled chicken with a smoky barbecue flavor, crisp greens, and crunchy veggies. The chicken skewers add a fun and tasty twist, making this salad feel a little special and perfect for any meal. It’s a great mix of smoky, tangy, and refreshing all in one bowl.
I love making this salad when I want something light but still filling. The BBQ chicken always turns out tender and full of flavor, especially if you let it marinate a bit before grilling. Tossing it all with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers gives the salad a nice crunch and brightness that balances the grilled meat perfectly.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this is with a drizzle of ranch or a simple vinaigrette on top—it just brings everything together. This salad is perfect for a quick lunch or a backyard dinner with friends. Plus, it’s easy to customize with whatever veggies you have on hand or your favorite BBQ sauce. It’s a meal I keep coming back to!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken breasts
- They work well because they stay juicy when grilled. You can also use chicken thighs for more flavor and tenderness.
- BBQ sauce
- It adds a sweet and tangy taste. If you don’t have BBQ sauce, try teriyaki or a mix of ketchup and honey for a quick swap.
- Romaine lettuce
- Crisp and refreshing, it holds up well under the dressing. You can substitute with mixed greens or iceberg lettuce.
- Avocado
- Adds creaminess and balances the tang of BBQ. If you’re avoiding avocado, cucumber chunks can add a nice fresh crunch.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt dressing
- Greek yogurt is a healthy choice with a bit of tang. Sour cream adds richness. For dairy-free, use a plant-based yogurt.
How Can I Grill Chicken Skewers Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky to keep juicy and cooked through without burning the BBQ sauce. Here’s how to get it right:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to get a good sear without burning.
- Thread chicken pieces evenly on the skewers to cook uniformly.
- Cook about 5-7 minutes per side. Don’t rush; turning frequently can cause drying out.
- Baste extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes to prevent burning sugars in the sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure—165°F (74°C) is safe and juicy.
- Let the skewers rest a few minutes before serving to keep juices locked in.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – perfect for cooking chicken evenly with nice char marks.
- Wooden or metal skewers – make turning chicken easy and keep pieces together.
- Mixing bowls – for marinating chicken and tossing the salad ingredients.
- Sharp knife – for cutting chicken and chopping veggies cleanly.
- Whisk or fork – to blend the dressing until smooth and creamy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or firm tofu for a seafood or vegetarian option that grills well.
- Add diced bell peppers or grilled zucchini to the salad for extra color and crunch.
- Use chipotle BBQ sauce for a smoky and spicy kick if you like heat.
- Sprinkle toasted pepitas or chopped nuts on top to add a nutty crunch.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Salad:
- 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or grilled)
- 1 avocado, diced
- Fresh cilantro leaves (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
- Crumbled cotija or feta cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook the chicken skewers, so roughly 30 minutes total. It’s a quick and fresh meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Skewers:
In a bowl, mix the chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce until every piece is nicely coated. Thread the coated chicken onto skewers. Preheat your grill or grill pan on medium-high heat and cook the skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Feel free to baste with extra BBQ sauce during grilling for more flavor. Set the cooked skewers aside.
2. Prepare the Salad:
In a large bowl, toss together the chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, corn, diced avocado, and fresh cilantro if you like.
3. Make the Dressing:
Whisk together sour cream (or Greek yogurt), lime juice, honey, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle it over your salad and mix gently to coat everything evenly.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Put the dressed salad on a serving plate or bowl. Lay the warm BBQ chicken skewers on top or alongside the salad. For an extra touch, sprinkle some crumbled cotija or feta cheese over the salad.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve immediately while the chicken is warm. This fresh and tasty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad makes for a perfect light meal or lunch. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight before cutting and marinating. Pat dry to remove excess moisture for better grilling.
Can I Make the Salad Ahead of Time?
You can prep the veggies and dressing a few hours in advance, but wait to add avocado and toss the salad until just before serving to keep it fresh and vibrant.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep leftover grilled chicken and salad components separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat chicken gently and add avocado fresh before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of BBQ Sauce?
Try teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a mix of ketchup and honey for a different but equally delicious flavor on the chicken skewers.