Description
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad features juicy grilled chicken skewers paired with crisp romaine lettuce, colorful vegetables, creamy avocado, and a smoky BBQ dressing. This refreshing and satisfying salad is perfect for summer lunches and dinners, combining smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors in every bite.
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
- Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- Make Marinade: In a bowl, combine BBQ sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Toss the chicken cubes in the marinade until evenly coated, then cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Thread Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers evenly.
- Preheat Grill: Set the grill to medium-high heat to prepare for grilling the chicken skewers.
- Grill Chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, brushing with additional BBQ sauce during the final few minutes for extra flavor. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, Greek yogurt, lime juice, water, and smoked paprika until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble Salad: In a large salad bowl, combine chopped romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, corn, diced red bell pepper, sliced red onion, diced avocado, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve: Place the grilled chicken skewers on top of the salad, drizzle with the BBQ dressing, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately for best freshness.
Notes
- Rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken can replace skewers for convenience.
- Add tortilla strips for an added crunchy texture.
- Grilled corn can be used instead of canned for a smoky flavor.
- Cheddar cheese can be substituted with Monterey Jack or feta cheese.
- If preparing salad in advance, keep the dressing separate to prevent sogginess.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
