Description
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad combines juicy grilled chicken skewers with crisp romaine lettuce, colorful vegetables, creamy avocado, and a smoky BBQ dressing. This fresh and satisfying salad is perfect for summer lunches and dinners, featuring smoky grilled chicken paired with a vibrant mix of fresh produce and a tangy creamy dressing.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1/3 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Salad
- 6 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro
For the Dressing
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Prepare Chicken Marinade: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow flavors to infuse.
- Thread Chicken on Skewers: After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked or prepared skewers evenly.
- Preheat Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high temperature, ensuring it’s ready for cooking.
- Grill Chicken Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4–5 minutes per side. During the last few minutes, brush with additional BBQ sauce to enhance flavor and moisture. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.
- Make BBQ Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt, fresh lime juice, water, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, corn, diced red bell pepper, thinly sliced red onion, diced avocado, rinsed black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve: Place the grilled chicken skewers over the salad, drizzle with the prepared BBQ dressing, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can be used instead of fresh skewers for convenience.
- Add tortilla strips to the salad for a delightful extra crunch.
- Use grilled corn instead of boiled for an intensified smoky flavor.
- Replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or feta for a different cheese profile.
- If making the salad ahead, keep the dressing separate and add just before serving to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
