BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a delicious, fresh, and satisfying salad that blends smoky BBQ flavors with a crunchy, vibrant salad base, look no further than this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. This recipe features juicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a homemade herby ranch dressing that elevates the dish with creamy, tangy goodness. Whether you’re preparing it for a summer BBQ or a weeknight dinner, this salad is easy to make, family-friendly, and packed with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only tasty but also quick and easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that satisfies both your cravings for something fresh and your love for BBQ. The addition of grilled chicken skewers adds a smoky depth to the salad, while the homemade herby ranch dressing ties everything together perfectly. Plus, it’s adaptable for various dietary needs, such as Whole30 or gluten-free diets.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides lean protein and a neutral base for the BBQ sauce
• Avocado oil: Helps in grilling and adds a subtle flavor
• Kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the chicken and BBQ sauce
• BBQ sauce: Adds the sweet and smoky BBQ flavor to the chicken
• Wooden skewers (6-inch): Essential for grilling the chicken pieces evenly

For the Herby Ranch Dressing:

• Light tasting oil (avocado oil or light olive oil): Forms the base of the creamy dressing
• Egg: Helps emulsify the dressing for a smooth consistency
• Unsweetened full-fat coconut milk: Adds creaminess without dairy
• Lemon juice: Balances the richness with a refreshing tang
• Red wine vinegar: Adds acidity and depth to the ranch dressing
• Kosher salt, onion powder, garlic: Essential seasonings that bring the ranch dressing to life
• Fresh dill and parsley: Provide fresh herbal notes to the dressing
• Freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and flavor

For the Salad:

• Corn (optional for Whole30): Adds sweetness and texture to the salad
• Romaine lettuce: Serves as the crunchy base of the salad
• Green onions: Brings a mild onion flavor and crunch
• Grape tomatoes: Provides juiciness and a burst of sweetness
• Black beans (optional for Whole30): Adds extra protein and fiber
• Fresh cilantro and basil: Add a fresh herbal flavor that complements the BBQ chicken
• Avocado: Offers creaminess and a rich flavor

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or ingredients on hand, here are some alternatives:

• Chicken: Swap for turkey breast or a plant-based protein like tempeh for a vegetarian version.
• BBQ Sauce: For a sugar-free or Whole30 version, choose a clean, natural BBQ sauce without added sugars.
• Avocado oil: If you prefer a more neutral oil, you can use olive oil.
• Coconut Milk: For a less coconutty flavor, use almond milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
• Black Beans: Skip the beans for a Whole30-compliant version or use chickpeas for added protein.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: Pound the chicken to a uniform thickness and cube it into 2-inch pieces. Toss the chicken pieces in avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate it for 4-8 hours for deeper flavor.
Make the Herby Ranch Dressing: In a jar, combine light oil, an egg, coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Using an immersion blender, blend until a creamy mayo forms. Add in the fresh herbs and black pepper, then refrigerate until ready to use.
Grill the Chicken and Prepare the Salad: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes. While the corn is grilling, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers and cook them for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting with BBQ sauce. Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill.
Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, and basil. Drizzle with the herby ranch dressing and toss until well coated. Add the grilled corn, diced avocado, and toss gently.
Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken skewers on top of the salad and enjoy!

Tips & Tricks

• Grill Marks: For beautiful grill marks on the chicken, avoid moving the skewers around too much while cooking. Let the chicken sear properly before flipping.
• Dressing Tip: Make the herby ranch dressing in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. It’s great for other salads or as a dip!
• Adjusting BBQ Sauce: If you prefer a spicier kick, try adding a bit of hot sauce or chili powder to your BBQ sauce.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Sides: Serve it alongside crispy sweet potato fries, grilled vegetables, or a chilled cucumber salad.
• Sauces: Consider adding a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce or a tangy balsamic glaze.
• Make-Ahead: Prep the chicken and dressing ahead of time for a quick, hassle-free dinner. Just assemble the salad and grill the chicken when you’re ready to eat.

Why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Is Perfect for Summer

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is ideal for summer meals. The grilled chicken skewers bring a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the freshness of the vegetables and the creamy dressing. Plus, it’s light enough to enjoy on a hot day while still providing enough substance to be a fulfilling meal.

Enjoy making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad for your next family meal or gathering—it’s a surefire hit that everyone will love!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is an absolute crowd-pleaser that combines smoky grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, herby ranch dressing to create the ultimate salad experience. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to summer BBQs. With its balance of flavors and textures, it’s not just a meal but a celebration of vibrant, wholesome ingredients. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, adaptable for different diets, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy this delicious and satisfying salad that brings together the best of BBQ and fresh salad goodness.

FAQ

1. Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce for this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought BBQ sauce for convenience. However, making your own BBQ sauce or using a high-quality sauce will elevate the flavor even more. Look for options with minimal sugar for a healthier alternative.

2. How can I make this recipe Whole30 compliant?

To make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Whole30-compliant, omit the black beans and corn. Additionally, make sure to use a Whole30-approved BBQ sauce and skip the dairy in the ranch dressing by using a coconut milk-based version.

3. Can I make the herby ranch dressing ahead of time?

Absolutely! The herby ranch dressing can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to a week. This makes the recipe even easier to prepare when you’re ready to assemble the salad.

More Relevant Recipes