BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect way to celebrate warm weather and fresh ingredients. Juicy grilled chicken coated in smoky BBQ sauce rests atop a bed of vibrant greens, creamy avocado, sweet corn, tangy feta, and bright cherry tomatoes. It’s a combination of hearty protein and crisp veggies that hits all the right flavor notes. Ideal for grilling season, this salad brings backyard BBQ vibes into a wholesome, nutritious dish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and special enough to serve guests. The creamy, zesty dressing ties it all together, while the colorful presentation makes every bite feel like summer on a plate.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Skewers:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5” pieces

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp kosher salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika

• Wooden or metal skewers

For the Salad:

• 5 oz spring mix or arugula

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup corn (fresh, grilled, or thawed from frozen)

• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

For the Dressing:

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1 clove garlic, grated

• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, olive oil, BBQ sauce, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Toss to coat well and marinate for 20 minutes.

2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning.

3. Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers.

4. Grill skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.

5. While chicken cooks, assemble salad in a large bowl or platter with greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, corn, and feta.

6. In a small jar or bowl, whisk together all dressing ingredients until emulsified.

7. Drizzle dressing over salad and toss lightly to combine.

8. Place grilled chicken skewers on top and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 32 minutes
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: A Flavor-Packed Summer Favorite

When the sun is shining and the grill is calling, there’s nothing more satisfying than a meal that combines freshness with smoky, chargrilled flavors. One of the best ways to enjoy that beautiful balance is with a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a vibrant, hearty, and health-conscious dish that’s perfect for both casual weeknights and weekend gatherings. This dish brings together tender grilled chicken glazed in your favorite BBQ sauce, crisp seasonal vegetables, creamy avocado, and tangy feta over a bed of leafy greens, topped with a simple homemade vinaigrette.

This isn’t just another salad it’s a meal in itself. Here’s everything you need to know about why this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad deserves a permanent spot in your warm-weather menu rotation.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

There are salads, and then there are meal-worthy salads those that keep you full, satisfied, and happy. This one falls into the latter category. Here’s what makes it stand out:

• Grilled Goodness: The BBQ chicken skewers are juicy and packed with smoky, caramelized flavor from the grill. This alone elevates the salad into something special.

• Layered Textures: Crisp greens, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and soft feta provide a play of textures in every bite.

• Balanced Nutrition: It’s rich in protein from the chicken, healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, and fiber from the veggies making it a well-rounded, wholesome meal.

• Customizable: You can switch up the greens, use store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce, or even change the cheese depending on what you have on hand.

• Perfect for Entertaining: Visually stunning and universally loved, it’s a crowd-pleaser for BBQs, picnics, and summer parties.

The Perfect Marriage of Grilling and Freshness

One of the standout aspects of this recipe is how it successfully marries two seemingly opposite elements: the deep, smoky intensity of grilled meat and the refreshing crunch of fresh vegetables. The result is a dish that’s comforting and light, bold and delicate, all at the same time.

The grilled chicken skewers, slathered in BBQ sauce, bring a classic smoky-sweet profile to the table. Whether you prefer a tangy vinegar-based BBQ sauce or a sweet and sticky Kansas City-style sauce, the grilling process gives the chicken a caramelized outer crust that pairs wonderfully with the brightness of the salad underneath.

A Salad That Eats Like a Meal

For anyone who’s ever thought salads can’t be filling, this recipe will change your mind. Thanks to the generous protein content from the chicken, the healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, and fiber-rich greens and corn, this salad keeps you full for hours.

It’s not just a side dish or a way to “eat more greens” it’s an intentional, satisfying entrée. And because the ingredients are mostly whole and minimally processed, it’s a great choice for anyone focused on clean eating or looking to cut down on refined carbs without sacrificing flavor.

Seasonal Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Another reason this salad is so special? It makes the most of seasonal produce. In summer, you can find fresh corn, ripe cherry tomatoes, crisp greens, and creamy avocados at their peak. Using seasonal ingredients ensures the best flavor and nutritional value and supports local agriculture if you’re buying from farmers’ markets.

Plus, these ingredients don’t need much dressing up. Their natural sweetness, acidity, and creaminess are perfect as-is, allowing the BBQ chicken to shine as the centerpiece of the dish.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different preferences, dietary needs, and even what’s in your fridge. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Protein Swap: Try it with grilled shrimp, steak tips, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

• Different Greens: Arugula, romaine, spinach, or even kale can replace the spring mix or be combined for added texture.

• Cheese Alternatives: Feta is a great option, but goat cheese, blue cheese, or even shredded cheddar can bring a different flavor profile.

• Grain Boost: Add quinoa, farro, or couscous for a more substantial grain bowl variation.

• Dressing Tweaks: The simple vinaigrette is versatile, but feel free to switch it up with a creamy ranch, a yogurt-based herb dressing, or even a drizzle of honey mustard.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips

While this salad is best enjoyed fresh, it’s also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can grill the chicken skewers ahead of time and store them in the fridge for 3–4 days. Keep the salad components (especially the avocado and dressing) separate until ready to eat to maintain the best texture.

Pro tip: Store the dressing in a small mason jar or dressing container and toss just before serving for that fresh, just-made flavor.

If you’re planning for a gathering or picnic, you can pre-assemble the salad base and add the skewers on-site or just before serving.

Kid-Approved and Family-Friendly

Despite being loaded with vegetables, this salad is surprisingly kid-approved. The BBQ chicken skewers are fun to eat and full of flavor, making them a great gateway protein for picky eaters. You can even serve the skewers separately with a side of salad for younger children who may not be into mixed dishes yet.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad isn’t just for BBQs or weekend grilling. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, especially during warmer months. It also makes a great work lunch because it’s portable and stays fresh for hours if stored properly.

And if you’re looking for a showstopper dish for your next get-together, this is it. The colorful presentation, with those charred chicken skewers laid beautifully over vibrant veggies, makes it a visual feast as much as a culinary one.

Nutritional Highlights

Here’s a quick overview of some of the nutritional benefits:

• Chicken Thighs: Rich in protein and flavor, plus they retain moisture better than chicken breast when grilled.

• Avocados: A fantastic source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber.

• Leafy Greens: Low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and K.

• Tomatoes & Corn: Provide natural sweetness and antioxidants like lycopene and lutein.

• Feta Cheese: Adds calcium and a salty contrast to the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.

Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that fuels your body while delighting your palate.

Conclusion:

The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than just a salad it’s a celebration of summer flavors, textures, and healthy eating. Whether you’re looking for a go-to grilled dish, a light dinner that satisfies, or a colorful entrée to wow your guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.

It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and fits beautifully into a healthy lifestyle without sacrificing indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients and a grill, you can create something truly special that feels both comforting and fresh.