BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is one of those joyful dishes that make your summer barbecues unforgettable. Imagine tender chunks of marinated chicken, infused with smoky BBQ goodness, served over a bed of vibrant, fresh veggies. It’s not just a salad; it’s a shared experience with friends and family, combined with laughter and good times. Plus, you can fire up the grill and savor the sunshine while preparing this delightful meal. The combination of crispy romaine, juicy tomatoes, and creamy dressing balances perfectly with the grilled goodness, making it hit every taste bud. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this salad will definitely bring smiles to the table. Let’s roll up our sleeves and get started on this delicious journey!

Why This Recipe Works

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad combines the smoky, tangy flavors of grilled chicken with the freshness of crisp vegetables. The marination process ensures the chicken is flavorful and tender. As you bite into the salad, the balance of textures—from crunchy veggies to creamy dressing—creates a delightful eating experience. This salad excites your palate and leaves you feeling satisfied yet light. It’s a fantastic way to make the most of summer’s bounty while enjoying a healthful, delicious meal.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This salad is a celebration of summer flavors that caters to both your grilling cravings and healthy eating aspirations. With a prep time that rewards you with a feast of colors and tastes, you’ll find this dish to be a perfect choice for backyard gatherings or family dinners. The vibrant mix of ingredients not only pleases the eyes but also the heart. You’ll be tempted to make it again and again—trust me!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups BBQ sauce (suggestion: Primal Kitchen brand)
• 8 [6-inch] wooden skewers (pre-soaked)
• 1 cup light tasting oil (suggestion: avocado oil or “light” olive oil)
• 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)
• ½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 4 ears corn (omit for Whole30)
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads)
• 6 green onions (thinly sliced, green part only)
• 2 cups quartered grape tomatoes (or 16 ounces)
• 1 [15-ounce] can black beans (drained and rinsed, omit for Whole30)
• ¼ cup loosely packed freshly chopped cilantro leaves
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped basil leaves
• 1 avocado (peeled, seed removed, and diced medium)

Marinate the Chicken

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even ½ inch thickness. This step helps the chicken cook evenly. Then, cube the chicken into 2-inch pieces. In a large bowl, mix the chicken with avocado oil, kosher salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Now, set the chicken aside for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or for a deeper flavor, refrigerate it for 4-8 hours. This marination makes a big difference in taste!

Make the Herby-Ranch Dressing

For the dressing, grab a wide-mouth jar. Pour in the light-tasting oil and add the egg, if you’re using one. With an immersion blender, rest the blade on the egg yolk without moving it. This technique will help create a creamy mayo base. Gradually move the blender up to emulsify the entire mixture. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, and garlic. Blend until everything is well-combined. Finally, stir in dill, parsley, and black pepper. Chill this dressing until you’re ready to assemble your salad.

Grill the Chicken and Prepare the Salad

Time to grill! Drizzle the corn with avocado oil and rub it in. Preheat your grill to medium-high, around 350-400°F. Lightly oil the grates, then add the corn. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Now, grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes on one side until you see beautiful grill marks. Flip them over and baste with the reserved BBQ sauce. Cook until the chicken is fully done, around 3-4 minutes more. Let the grilled corn cool a bit, then cut off the kernels.

In a large bowl, mix romaine lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans (if using), cilantro, and basil. Toss everything with your desired amount of herby-ranch dressing until the lettuce is nicely coated. Finally, gently fold in the corn and diced avocado.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, place the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad on a large platter. Garnish with extra herbs for an inviting presentation. It looks stunning and makes a fantastic centerpiece for summer gatherings. Your guests will be impressed and eager to dig in!

Tips for Success

• Marinate the Chicken: Allow the chicken to marinate thoroughly for the best flavor.
• Consistent Grill Temperature: Keep the grill at a steady temperature to avoid overcooking your chicken.
• Customize the Dressing: Feel free to experiment with your favorite herbs or spices to make the dressing your own!

Variations

If you want variety, you can substitute the chicken with shrimp or firm tofu as a protein option. For an extra crunch, throw in some roasted red peppers or cucumbers. If you’re following Whole30, just skip the corn and black beans for a compliant version.

Pairing Ideas

Pair this salad with a chilled white wine for a refreshing summer meal. A fruity iced tea works wonders, too! If you’re looking to make it heartier, consider serving it alongside some warm garlic bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
   Yes, shrimp or firm tofu are excellent substitutes for chicken.

2. How long can the dressing be stored?
   The herby-ranch dressing can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 week.

3. Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
   Absolutely! Keep the salad and chicken packed separately to maintain freshness.

4. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
   Yes, with coconut milk for creaminess, and you can skip the egg in the dressing if desired.

5. What can I serve with this salad?
   Garlic bread, grilled veggies, or a refreshing drink go well with this salad.

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is delightful, perfect for warm, sunny days. Each bite bursts with flavor, and the blend of textures makes it a satisfying meal. Enjoy this recipe at your next gathering, and watch it become a favorite among friends and family!

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