The idea for this Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad hit me on a sweltering July evening when the grill was hot and friends were minutes away. I’d planned on simple chicken skewers, but the market-fresh greens and sweet corn in my fridge begged for something brighter. Twenty minutes later, smoky barbecue chicken was resting atop a rainbow of lettuce, tomatoes, and crunchy veggies, finished with a cool drizzle of herby ranch that reminded me of my favorite California Pizza Kitchen salad.
This dish's ease makes it shine: marinate, grill, toss, done. It’s Whole 30-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and hearty enough to steal the spotlight at any backyard gathering—yet light enough to energize you on long summer nights. The leftovers pack beautifully, too, so tomorrow’s lunch is already sorted.
Fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and turn classic barbecue into a salad everyone craves.
Why is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a Must-Try?
Flavor Explosion: This salad marries the smoky richness of BBQ chicken with fresh veggies for a sensational taste.
Simple Prep: With just a few easy steps, even busy cooks can whip this up without hassle.
Customizable Options: Adjust the ingredients to fit your taste, making it perfect for every occasion.
Healthy Choice: Whole30-compliant and gluten-free, you don’t have to compromise on health to enjoy a satisfying meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for summer gatherings, this dish ensures satisfied guests every time.
Don’t miss out on this delicious way to elevate your salad game!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
• Chicken Breasts – Choose boneless, skinless for easy preparation.
• Avocado Oil – Great for marinating and grilling, ensures flavors and prevents sticking.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the overall taste.
• BBQ Sauce – The main flavor driver; Primal Kitchen is a fantastic choice.
• Wooden Skewers – Soak them beforehand to avoid burning while grilling.
For the W30 Herby Ranch
• Light Tasting Oil – Use avocado oil to create a creamy emulsion as a base.
• Egg – Adds richness; omit if using store-bought mayo.
• Unsweetened Full Fat Coconut Milk – Provides creaminess while keeping it dairy-free.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a fresh acidity that brightens the dressing.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Balances the rich elements in the ranch.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances all the flavors harmoniously.
• Onion Powder – Elevates the flavor profile with minimum effort.
• Minced Garlic – A fundamental flavor base that brings depth.
• Fresh Dill Fronds – Pursues that classic herby ranch taste.
• Fresh Parsley – Adds an additional layer of flavor.
• Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – Provides a subtle heat and seasoning.
For the Salad (Omit corn and black beans for Whole30)
• Corn – Grilled for an added touch of sweetness.
• Thinly Sliced Romaine Lettuce – Serves as a crisp base for the salad.
• Green Onions – Enhances the flavor and adds visual appeal—only use the green parts.
• Grape Tomatoes – Contributes freshness, acidity, and sweetness.
• Canned Black Beans – Adds texture and protein; can be omitted for Whole30.
• Freshly Chopped Cilantro Leaves – Infuses a burst of freshness.
• Freshly Chopped Basil Leaves – Offers a delightful herbaceous flavor.
• Avocado – Creaminess and healthy fats make the salad satisfying.
Discover how these simple yet delightful ingredients come together in my BBQ chicken skewer salad to create an unforgettable dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Step 1
Begin by preparing the chicken for your BBQ chicken skewer salad. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness, which ensures even cooking. Once flattened, cube the chicken and place it in a bowl. Drizzle with avocado oil and sprinkle with kosher salt before adding 1 cup of your chosen BBQ sauce. Toss everything until the chicken is well coated and marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for 4-8 hours for maximum flavor.
Step 2
While the chicken marinates, it’s time to make the herby ranch dressing. If you're creating it from scratch, grab your immersion blender. Start by emulsifying the light-tasting oil with the egg (if using) until combined. Next, add the unsweetened full-fat coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, and minced garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy before stirring in the fresh dill, parsley, and pepper. Cover and refrigerate the dressing until ready to use.
Step 3
Once the chicken has marinated, fire up the grill. Preheat it to medium-high heat. While the grill heats, drizzle the corn with a little avocado oil to enhance its sweetness. Grill the corn until it becomes tender and has nice grill marks, turning occasionally for even cooking, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Remove the corn from the grill and set aside while keeping the temperature steady for the skewers.
Step 4
Next, it's time to grill the chicken skewers. If you haven't already, soak the wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the soaked skewers. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, then add the skewers. Grill them for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until they develop a beautiful char and are no longer pink in the center. Don’t forget to baste them with remaining BBQ sauce during the last few minutes to enhance the flavor.
Step 5
Now it’s time to bring all the elements together and assemble your BBQ chicken skewer salad. In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced romaine lettuce, chopped green onions, grape tomatoes, fresh cilantro, and basil. If using, add the canned black beans and grilled corn cut off the cob. Layer in the grilled chicken skewers and drizzle with your homemade herby ranch dressing. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each ingredient is coated in the dressing, and serve immediately for a vibrant and delicious meal!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Fridge: Keep the BBQ chicken skewer salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This ensures the freshness of the ingredients and prevents sogginess.
Freezer: For optimal taste, freeze the grilled chicken skewers separately from the salad. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. Wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw chicken skewers in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Grill them again or microwave until warm.
Dressing Storage: Store leftover herby ranch dressing in the fridge for up to a week. Shake or stir before use to maintain texture.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Picture a sunlit patio brimming with laughter as you share vibrant flavors that delight the senses. This lively salad can be the star of any meal, and we have some perfect pairings to enhance your dining experience.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their natural sweetness and crispy texture provide a wonderful contrast to the zesty flavors of the salad, making every bite a treat.
- Grilled Vegetable Medley: A colorful assortment of seasonal veggies adds a smoky flavor that beautifully complements the BBQ chicken skewers and enhances the overall freshness.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty and slightly chewy, this wholesome side offers a satisfying texture while soaking up any remaining herby ranch dressing. It’s a nutrient-packed addition that elevates the meal.
- Lemon Garlic Roasted Asparagus: With its bright acidity and crisp flavor, asparagus balances the richness of the dressing, making it a refreshing side dish that pairs beautifully.
- Watermelon Feta Salad: This light, sweet, and salty combination bursts with refreshing flavors that contrast deliciously with the grilled elements of the main dish.
- Chilled White Wine Spritzer: A crisp, fruity spritzer serves as a delightful beverage option, cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavor profile of your BBQ chicken skewer salad.
With these pairings, you’ll create a harmonious and satisfying meal that everyone will love!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Variations
Customize this delightful salad to suit your palate with these exciting twists and substitutes!
- Dairy-Free Dressing: Substitute coconut milk or almond milk to keep it creamy without any dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a zesty flavor explosion.
- Swap Proteins: Try shrimp or tofu in place of chicken for a different protein profile.
- Grilled Veggies: Incorporate zucchini and bell peppers for more color and texture in the salad.
- Herb Switch: Experiment with fresh basil or cilantro instead of dill for a unique herby note.
- Crunchy Toppings: Sprinkle sunflower seeds or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
- Pasta Addition: Toss in some cooked whole grain pasta to turn it into a heartier meal that's still fresh.
- Fruity Twist: Add diced mango or pineapple for a sweet and juicy contrast to the BBQ flavors.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create your perfect BBQ chicken skewer salad!
Helpful Tricks for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
• Marinating Time: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, but for optimal flavor, aim for 4-8 hours in the fridge.
• Soaking Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from charring on the grill.
• Consistent Size: Cube the chicken into uniform pieces for even cooking, ensuring that every bite of your BBQ chicken skewer salad is perfectly tender.
• Ranch Emulsion Tips: When making your herby ranch, start blending at the top of the ingredients and gradually move down to create a smooth emulsion without lumps.
• Basting Technique: Baste your chicken skewers with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling for maximum flavor without burning the sauce.
Enjoy creating your delicious BBQ chicken skewer salad, ensuring every step shines with flavor!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Skewer Salads are perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply and ensuring maximum juiciness during grilling. Additionally, the herby ranch dressing can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 3 days, maintaining its creamy texture by storing it in an airtight container. When it’s time to eat, simply grill the marinated chicken skewers and assemble the salad with fresh ingredients, tossing everything together with the chilled dressing before serving. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s just as satisfying as if made fresh!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my BBQ chicken skewer salad?
You want to look for fresh, vibrant produce to elevate your salad. For avocados, choose ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure but aren’t overly soft. When selecting tomatoes, opt for ones that are deep in color with a shiny skin. Fresh herbs should look bright and fragrant. For the chicken, ensure it’s fresh, and always keep the packaging intact until ready to use.
What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ chicken skewer salad?
Absolutely! Store any leftover BBQ chicken skewer salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the freshness and prevent the salad from becoming soggy, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat. This way, your salad will stay crisp and delicious!
Can I freeze the grilled chicken skewers for later use?
Yes, you can! For the best results, freeze the grilled chicken skewers separately from the salad components. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can stay good in the freezer for up to 2 months. When reheating, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling briefly or microwaving until warm.
What should I do if my herby ranch dressing doesn't emulsify properly?
If your dressing isn’t emulsifying, don’t worry! Start by ensuring that your immersion blender is firmly pressed into the liquid at the bottom of your container. Slowly lift it up while blending—this helps pull in the oil and create that creamy texture. If it still doesn’t come together, try adding a bit more egg yolk or oil while blending and be patient. The key is slow, steady blending!
Is there a way to make this salad pet-friendly?
While the BBQ chicken skewer salad is delicious for humans, it’s best to limit pets from certain ingredients, particularly the dressing due to onions and garlic content, which can be harmful to them. If you want to share, cook plain chicken without seasoning or shared ingredients, and provide them with simple cuts of grilled chicken or vegetables like carrots or green beans as a treat instead.
Are there any allergy considerations for the BBQ chicken skewer salad?
Yes, great question! This salad is Gluten-Free and Whole30 compliant, but always check the labels for any sauces or ingredients you use, as they may contain allergens. If allergies are a concern, you can substitute with alternative ingredients, such as mayonnaise for the ranch if someone has an egg allergy or opting for a different oil. Always prioritize what works for you and your family’s dietary needs.
These FAQs will help ensure your BBQ chicken skewer salad experience is enjoyable and successful!
Irresistibly Delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad You’ll Love
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 wooden skewers
- 2 tablespoons light tasting oil
- 1 egg optional
- ½ cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill fronds
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 cup corn omit for Whole30
- 4 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce
- ½ cup green onions green parts only
- 1 cup grape tomatoes
- 1 cup canned black beans omit for Whole30
- ¼ cup freshly chopped cilantro leaves
- ¼ cup freshly chopped basil leaves
- 1 avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by pounding it to an even thickness, cubing it, and mixing it with avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce. Marinate for at least 20 minutes.
- Make the herby ranch dressing by emulsifying light-tasting oil with egg (if using), then add coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic. Blend until smooth and mix in dill, parsley, and pepper.
- Grill the corn for 8-10 minutes after drizzling with avocado oil. Set aside.
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes, then thread marinated chicken on them. Grill for 10-15 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce.
- Combine romaine, green onions, tomatoes, cilantro, basil, corn, and black beans (if using) in a bowl. Add grilled chicken skewers and drizzle with ranch dressing before serving.
Notes
- Marinate chicken for 20 minutes to 8 hours for optimal flavor.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Cube chicken evenly for uniform cooking.
- Blend ranch starting from the top of the ingredients to avoid lumps.
- Baste skewers with BBQ sauce during the final minutes of grilling.
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