BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad – Healthy Refreshing Summer Dinner

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If you love bold summer flavors, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delivers everything you crave in one vibrant bowl. Juicy grilled chicken, smoky BBQ glaze, and crisp fresh veggies come together in a way that feels both indulgent and refreshing.

Inspired by restaurant favorites but made right at home, this salad is perfect for warm evenings, casual gatherings, or meal prep with serious flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Smoky grilled flavor: BBQ-marinated chicken skewers bring that irresistible char and sweetness
  • Fresh and satisfying: Crisp romaine, herbs, and creamy avocado balance every bite
  • Homemade herby ranch: Bright, creamy dressing elevates the entire dish
  • Perfect for summer meals: Light yet filling, ideal for lunches, dinners, or entertaining
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
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BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

300

kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts

  • 3 tbsp avocado oil

  • 1 tsp kosher salt

  • 2 cups BBQ sauce, divided

  • 8 wooden skewers, soaked

  • 4 ears corn

  • 8 cups chopped romaine lettuce

  • 6 green onions, sliced

  • 2 cups grape tomatoes

  • 1 can black beans, drained

  • 1 avocado, diced

  • Fresh cilantro and basil

  • 1 cup avocado oil (for dressing)

  • 1 egg

  • 1/2 cup coconut milk

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • Garlic, dill, parsley, salt, pepper

Directions

  • Prepare the chicken: Pound chicken to even thickness, cut into chunks, and marinate with oil, salt, and BBQ sauce for at least 20 minutes.
  • Make the dressing: Blend oil and egg into mayonnaise, then mix with coconut milk, lemon, vinegar, garlic, and herbs until creamy.
  • Assemble skewers: Thread marinated chicken onto skewers evenly.
  • Grill the corn and chicken: Cook corn until tender and grill chicken skewers until charred and cooked through, basting with BBQ sauce.
  • Build the salad: Toss lettuce, tomatoes, beans, herbs, and dressing together in a large bowl.
  • Finish and serve: Add corn and avocado, top with grilled skewers, and serve immediately.

Chef’s Tips for Perfect Results

  • Marinate longer if possible. This deepens the BBQ flavor and keeps the chicken juicy
  • Use high heat on the grill. This creates those beautiful charred edges
  • Cut ingredients evenly. This ensures balanced bites in every forkful
  • Dress just before serving. Keeps the lettuce crisp and fresh

Equipment

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Skewers
  • Immersion blender

Storing, Freezing & Serving

  • Storing: Keep components separate in the fridge for up to 3 days
  • Reheating: Warm chicken gently before adding to fresh salad
  • Freezing: Freeze cooked chicken only for best texture
  • Serving: Serve slightly warm chicken over chilled salad for contrast

Variations

  • Low-carb: Skip beans and corn for a lighter version
  • Spicy twist: Add chipotle or hot sauce to BBQ marinade
  • Dairy-based dressing: Swap coconut milk for Greek yogurt
  • Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with grilled tofu or mushrooms

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time?
Yes. Prep the chicken and dressing in advance, but assemble the salad just before serving for best texture.

What BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce. A clean-ingredient version works great for a healthier option.

Can I cook this without a grill?
Yes. Use a grill pan or bake the chicken in the oven at high heat until fully cooked.

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad brings together smoky, fresh, and creamy elements in one satisfying dish. It is easy enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Try it once and it will quickly become a warm-weather favorite in your kitchen.

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