Prepare to indulge in a BBQ chicken skewer salad that is nothing short of divine. Just imagine tender, smoky chicken infused with tangy BBQ sauce nestled atop a fresh bed of greens and vibrant vegetables. Each bite is a flavor explosion, with the crispness of corn and the creaminess of avocado elevating this meal to a gathering showstopper.
Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, enjoying a cozy family dinner, or simply craving a refreshing dish, this BBQ chicken skewer salad promises to deliver a sensational experience that tantalizes your taste buds and brightens your day. Get ready to savor moments filled with laughter, good food, and perhaps a little friendly competition over who can craft the best skewer.
Why You'll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- This incredible BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad:
24 oz boneless skinless chicken breasts – Cut into 1.5-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and easy skewering.
1/2 cup BBQ sauce – Choose your favorite brand for a personal touch and maximum flavor.
12 wooden skewers – Pre-soaked to prevent burning on the grill; they anchor the chicken perfectly for grilling.
1/3 cup light ranch dressing – Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs beautifully with the BBQ flavors.
3 Tbsp buttermilk – Adds a touch of richness to the dressing while keeping it light.
4 ears corn – Grilled to enhance sweetness and texture, adding a contrast of flavor to the salad.
2 heads romaine – Chopped or torn, provides a crisp and refreshing base for the salad.
1 cup diced tomatoes – Adds juiciness and color, balancing the richness of the chicken and dressing.
1 (15 oz) can black beans – Rinsed and drained, they boost protein and fiber, making the salad hearty.
1 avocado – Pitted and thinly sliced, adding creaminess that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Combine the chicken and BBQ sauce in a large bowl or gallon-sized plastic bag; gently toss to coat. Set aside to let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature. For richer flavor, consider covering and refrigerating for 4-8 hours, or even up to two days in advance.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure a nice char on the chicken skewers for that perfect grilled flavor that everyone loves.
Step 3: Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers. Make sure to leave a little space between the pieces so they cook evenly and get that beautiful grill mark.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, carefully place the chicken skewers on the grate. Cook them for 3-4 minutes before turning. Baste the chicken with any reserved BBQ sauce from the marinade. Continue cooking until fully cooked through, approximately 15-18 minutes total.
Step 5: Grill the Corn
During the chicken’s cooking time, place the ears of corn on the top grate or away from the direct flame. Turn every 2 minutes, grilling for about 10-12 minutes. The corn should be sweet and slightly charred.
Step 6: Assemble the Salad
Remove the grilled chicken and corn from the grill and set aside. After cooling for 5 minutes, cut the corn kernels from the cob. In a mason jar or bowl, combine ranch, additional BBQ sauce, and buttermilk, whisking or shaking until well-blended. In a large bowl, place the romaine and add most of the dressing, tossing to coat. Finally, add diced tomatoes, black beans, and avocado, drizzling on the remaining dressing. Toss gently, and serve the salad generously topped with the skewers.
Now you have the perfect BBQ chicken skewer salad ready to dazzle your guests or indulge in on a cozy night in. Imagine that first bite, bursting with BBQ goodness, fresh greens, and all the colors of summer on your plate. Enjoy!
This showstopping BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home. The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds. Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest. Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Cooking Process
To get the best results, marinate the chicken first to infuse flavor while the grill heats up. Grill the chicken and corn simultaneously for efficiency, and prepare the dressing while everything cooks.
Add Your Touch to BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Feel free to swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your preferences. Adding spices like cajun seasoning or a zesty citrus dressing takes flavor profiles to new heights, delightful for creativity.
Storing & Reheating BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge up to three days. For optimal quality, reheat the chicken gently in the microwave, keeping the salad elements separate until ready to enjoy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- This professional-quality BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Nothing beats the smile on my friends’ faces when they took the first bite of this salad at our last get-together; it turned into a spontaneous cook-off to see who could recreate it!
FAQs About BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
What is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful dish that combines grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and a tangy dressing, all presented beautifully on skewers. The chicken is marinated in a flavorful BBQ sauce, grilled to perfection, and served atop a bed of romaine lettuce, corn, tomatoes, black beans, and avocado. This salad isn’t just a meal; it’s a vibrant and flavorful experience that’s perfect for any occasion, especially during summer gatherings or casual dinners.
How can I customize BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
One of the best things about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is its versatility. You can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or even tofu, depending on your dietary preferences. Think about adding toppings like feta cheese, olives, or other seasonal vegetables to create your desired flavor profile. Experimenting with different marinades or dressings can also take this salad to new heights; consider adding spices, citrus zest, or herbs to personalize your creation.
Can I prepare BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in advance?
Yes, you can! To save time, marinate the chicken and prepare your salad ingredients a few hours or even the night before. Just be sure to store the ingredients separately to maintain their freshness and texture. When you’re ready to serve, just grill the chicken, assemble the salad, and drizzle with dressing. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or for entertaining guests, allowing you to enjoy more time with your friends and family.
What are the nutrition benefits of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a balanced dish that offers various nutritional benefits. It provides a good source of protein from the chicken, fiber from the beans and vegetables, and healthy fats from the avocado. The salad is also packed with vitamins and minerals from the colorful array of veggies like romaine, tomatoes, and corn. With a calorie count of approximately 386 per serving, it makes for a wholesome yet satisfying meal that aligns with healthy eating habits.
Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
In summary, the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a vibrant and delicious meal that’s perfect for summer gatherings or any occasion. With its adaptable ingredients, grilling technique, and delectable dressing, you can create a dish that caters to everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a delightful meal at home, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is sure to impress and satisfy. Give it a try and let your culinary creativity shine!
Easy Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad for Summer Gatherings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Combine chicken and BBQ sauce in a large bowl or gallon-sized plastic bag; gently toss to coat. Set aside to let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for 4-8 hours (or 1-2 days in advance), if desired.
- Preheat grill to medium-high (350-400 degrees F). Meanwhile, thread chicken onto pre-soaked skewers.
- Once the grill is hot, add chicken and cook for 3-4 minutes before turning. Baste chicken with any reserved BBQ sauce from the marinading process. Cook chicken until fully cooked through, totaling 15-18 minutes. During the chicken cook time, add the corn on a top grate or away from direct flame; turn every 2 minutes, cooking a total of 10-12 minutes.
- Remove corn and chicken from grill and set aside. After cooling for 5 minutes, cut corn from cob.
- Combine ranch, BBQ sauce, and buttermilk in a mason jar or small bowl, whisking or shaking until well-combined.
- Place romaine in a large bowl and add most of the dressing; toss to coat. Add tomatoes, beans, and avocado along with remaining dressing; toss and serve with skewers atop the salad.
