This Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a fun and tasty dish! Juicy grilled chicken is paired with fresh veggies on a stick, all drizzled with a yummy barbecue sauce.
You can throw this together in no time, making it perfect for a sunny day. I love enjoying it outside while pretending I’m a grill master! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breast is the star here. For a quicker option, you might opt for pre-cooked grilled chicken. You could also use chicken thighs for added flavor and juiciness.
Barbecue Sauce: A classic BBQ sauce adds sweetness and tang. If you prefer a healthier version, consider using a sugar-free BBQ or a homemade sauce with honey and vinegar.
Corn: Grilled corn kernels bring a sweet crunch to the salad. If corn isn’t in season, canned or frozen corn can easily substitute in.
Lettuce: Romaine is crisp and refreshing, but feel free to switch it out for mixed greens or spinach if you like a different texture or flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions make great alternatives.
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken on skewers can be easy, but getting it just right is crucial. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Even Cubes: Cut chicken into similar-sized cubes (about 1 inch) to ensure they cook at the same time.
- Don’t Rush: Grill over medium-high heat for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally for even cooking.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This keeps it juicy as it cools slightly.
Enjoy making your Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad! It’s all about simple ingredients and grilling techniques to create something delicious.
Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You Will Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 ears corn, grilled and kernels cut off the cob
- 4 cups Romaine lettuce, chopped
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt or ranch dressing
- Olive oil (for grilling)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 wooden or metal skewers
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare in about 30 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to a medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 10 minutes. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the chicken cubes and thread them evenly onto the skewers. Make sure there’s a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Season the Chicken:
Brush the chicken skewers with olive oil, and then sprinkle them lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be thoroughly cooked and to have nice grill marks.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the chicken skewers generously with barbecue sauce. Let it caramelize slightly for added flavor.
6. Prepare the Salad:
While the chicken is grilling, grab a large bowl and mix together the chopped Romaine lettuce, grilled corn kernels, halved tomatoes, black beans, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro. This is where your salad starts to come alive!
7. Dress the Salad:
Drizzle the Greek yogurt or ranch dressing over the salad. Gently toss all the ingredients together until evenly coated.
8. Final Seasoning:
Don’t forget to season your salad with salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste for that extra pop of flavor!
9. Serve It Up:
Place the grilled BBQ chicken skewers on top of the salad or serve them alongside it. Either way works beautifully!
10. Garnish and Enjoy:
Garnish with extra cilantro leaves for a fresh touch. Serve immediately and enjoy your colorful, flavorful, and healthy Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Happy cooking! Enjoy this delightful recipe with family and friends! 😊
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I Use Other Proteins for This Salad?
Absolutely! You can switch the chicken out for shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure whatever protein you choose is thoroughly cooked.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, the salad ingredients can wilt over time, so it’s best to keep the chicken separately and add it when you’re ready to eat!
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you want to try something different, consider using teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or a chimichurri for a unique flavor. Just keep in mind that each will alter the taste of the final dish!
How Do I Grill Corn if I Don’t Have Fresh Ears?
No worries! You can use canned or frozen corn instead. If using frozen corn, just thaw and sauté it briefly in a pan with a little olive oil for added flavor before adding it to your salad.
Feel free to ask if you have any more questions or need further tips! Happy cooking! 😊
