If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with smoky, tangy flavors and fresh, crisp textures, you absolutely have to try this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of juicy grilled chicken coated in rich barbecue sauce paired with a colorful medley of fresh veggies and vibrant greens. Whether you’re after a hearty lunch or a satisfying dinner, this salad checks all the boxes for flavor, nutrition, and easy preparation, making it a quick go-to favorite especially when grilling season is in full swing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Everything about this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe is simple, yet each ingredient plays a vital role in creating a well-balanced plate. From perfectly seasoned chicken to crunchy vegetables and a hint of fresh cilantro, these components bring harmony in taste, texture, and color.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for tender, juicy pieces that grill quickly.
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce: Adds that signature smoky-sweet kick.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Keeps chicken moist and helps the sauce cling.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors magically.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a subtle spice that balances richness.
- 6 wooden skewers, soaked: Prevents burning and makes grilling easier.
- 6 cups mixed salad greens: A fresh, crispy foundation for the dish.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Offers juicy bursts of sweetness.
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced: Adds a refreshing crunch and lovely color contrast.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced: Contributes a sharp, zesty bite.
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional): A creamy, melty element that’s delightful but not necessary.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the dish with herbal freshness.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Skewers
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to get that perfect char without overcooking. Thread your cubed chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers—this keeps everything together and makes flipping a breeze. In a small bowl, mix barbecue sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper, then toss the skewers in this marinade ensuring every piece is evenly coated. This mix is the flavor-packed layer that will caramelize beautifully on the grill, so don’t skimp on it!
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want to see those nice grill marks and a slightly charred edge which adds smoky depth. The chicken should be cooked through but remain juicy and tender. This step really brings the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe to life by infusing that unmistakable grilled aroma.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
While the chicken is grilling, toss together your salad greens, halved cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion in a large bowl. If you’re going with cheddar cheese, sprinkle it over now to let it mingle with the other ingredients. This mix ensures every bite is a crunchy, fresh contrast to the grilled chicken’s robust flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Garnish
Once your chicken is off the grill, either slide the pieces off the skewers or serve them on as a fun presentation. Arrange the chicken over the salad, drizzle with a bit more barbecue sauce if you love extra tang, and finish with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro. This final touch makes the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe visually inviting and incredibly flavorful.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro is a wonderful bright garnish, but you can also try a squeeze of lime or a handful of toasted nuts for extra texture. These simple additions offer variety and can elevate the salad’s personality with minimal effort.
Side Dishes
This salad shines as a main dish, but pairing it with warm cornbread, garlic bread, or even a light soup can round out your meal beautifully. The barbecue flavors are versatile enough to complement various classic sides, making your dining experience well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the chicken skewers right on the platters for easy grabbing. For a more elegant touch, build individual salad plates and slice the chicken pieces atop each. You could even serve the salad in lettuce cups for a fun, handheld twist—that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, place the salad components separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Store the grilled chicken skewers wrapped tightly in foil or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the cooked chicken skewers without the salad for up to 2 months. Store them in a freezer-safe bag, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid freezing the salad greens as they will wilt and lose texture.
Reheating
Reheat the chicken skewers gently on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that smoky flavor without drying out the meat. Microwave works too but watch closely for overcooking. Add chicken back to fresh salad just before serving to keep everything crisp and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use other types of chicken cuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless skinless chicken breasts are perfect for skewering and grilling, you can use thighs for a juicier option. Just be sure to cut them into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe?
Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms marinated with the same barbecue sauce for a delicious plant-based version that keeps the smoky flavor intact.
Can I prepare the chicken skewers ahead of time?
Definitely! Marinate the chicken skewers up to 30 minutes or even a few hours before grilling for deeper flavor, but it’s best to grill them fresh for the juiciest results.
What type of barbecue sauce works best for this salad?
Choose a barbecue sauce you love, whether it’s sweet, spicy, or tangy. Each will give the salad its own character. Making your own homemade sauce also allows you to customize flavors perfectly.
Can this salad be served warm or cold?
This salad is versatile and can be enjoyed warm right off the grill or at room temperature. If you prefer it chilled, allow the chicken to cool completely before combining with the salad ingredients.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe is a shining example of how simplicity and flavor come together effortlessly. It’s a dish that feels like a celebration of fresh ingredients and smoky grilled goodness, perfect for sharing with family and friends any time of year. Go ahead, give it a try—you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again!
Print
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course/Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
A vibrant and healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad featuring tender grilled chicken cubes coated in tangy barbecue sauce, served over a fresh mix of greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onions, with an optional sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. This salad combines smoky flavors with crisp vegetables and is perfect for a quick and satisfying main course.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 wooden skewers, soaked in water
For the Salad
- 6 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure it’s hot enough for perfectly grilled chicken with char marks.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the chicken cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers evenly, making sure the pieces are not too tightly packed.
- Coat the Chicken: In a small bowl, toss the chicken skewers with barbecue sauce, olive oil, salt, and black pepper to coat all sides evenly and enhance flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred on the edges for that smoky BBQ flavor.
- Assemble the Salad: While the chicken is grilling, combine the mixed greens, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, thinly sliced red onions, and optional shredded cheddar cheese in a large salad bowl.
- Slice and Serve: Remove the chicken from the skewers and slice into bite-sized pieces or leave them on the skewers for presentation. Arrange the chicken over the salad.
- Garnish and Finish: Drizzle additional barbecue sauce over the top if desired, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken in barbecue sauce for 30 minutes prior to grilling.
- You can substitute with cooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Use a grill pan if an outdoor grill is not available.
