BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad – The Defined Dish – Recipes

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad – A Flavor-Packed Summer Feast

There’s something magical about the sizzle of BBQ chicken skewers on the grill—the smoky aroma, the caramelized edges, and that irresistible char. Now, imagine pairing those juicy skewers with a crisp, vibrant salad that balances sweet, tangy, and crunchy in every bite. That’s exactly what this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delivers! Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just craving a hearty yet healthy meal, this recipe is a winner.

Inspired by The Defined Dish, this salad is a celebration of textures and flavors. Tender chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies come together in a dish that’s as satisfying as it is colorful. Plus, it’s versatile—swap in your favorite seasonal produce or adjust the heat level to suit your taste. (P.S. If you love easy grilling recipes, you’ll adore my Grilled Lemon Herb Salmon too!)

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This isn’t just another salad—it’s a meal. Here’s why it’ll become a regular in your rotation:

Perfect for grilling season: No grill? No problem! A grill pan works too.
Meal-prep friendly: Prep the skewers and chop veggies ahead for quick assembly.

Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the sweet-and-smoky BBQ flavor.
Nutritious and filling: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Ready to dive in? Here’s your step-by-step guide to salad success:

Marinate the chicken: Coat bite-sized pieces in BBQ sauce, olive oil, and spices. Let them soak up the flavor for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for maximum taste).
Skewer and grill: Thread the chicken onto skewers (soak wooden ones first!) and grill over medium heat until charred and cooked through.
Build your salad: Toss greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, avocado, and corn (grilled for extra smokiness!) in a large bowl.

Drizzle and serve: Top with warm skewers, extra BBQ sauce, and a squeeze of lime. Optional: Add crumbled feta or cilantro for a flavor boost!

Pro Tips for the Best Salad

Want to take it up a notch? Try these tricks:

Use a homemade BBQ sauce for deeper flavor.

Grill extra chicken for next-day wraps or grain bowls.
Spritz the salad with lime juice to keep the avocado bright green.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad FAQs

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce? Absolutely! Choose a high-quality sauce with clean ingredients.

How long does the chicken need to marinate? At least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours is ideal.

What’s the best lettuce for this salad? Romaine or butter lettuce adds crunch, but kale works too (massage it first!).

Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Use a GF BBQ sauce and check all labels.

How do I prevent dry chicken? Don’t overcook—use a meat thermometer (165°F internally).

Can I add other proteins? Shrimp or tofu skewers would be delicious. For more ideas, try my Grilled Shrimp Tacos.

There you have it—a salad that’s anything but boring. With smoky grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and that finger-licking BBQ goodness, this dish is summer on a plate. Serve it with a cold glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine, and savor every bite. Happy grilling!