When the sun starts to shine and the outdoors beckons, there’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a vibrant BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that bursts with flavor and freshness. Just the thought of biting into tender, juicy chicken paired with crisp vegetables makes my mouth water. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but a breeze to prepare—ideal for those busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Imagine firing up the grill, the sweet aroma of BBQ sauce enveloping the air, as you whip up a creamy, homemade Whole30 Herby Ranch dressing that perfectly ties everything together. Whether you’re searching for a wholesome meal or just want to break away from the usual takeout, this refreshing salad hits the spot every time. Trust me—once you’ve tried it, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Why is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a Must-Try?
Irresistible Flavor: This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is bursting with the smoky taste of grilled chicken combined with the tanginess of fresh herbs.
Quick Prep: With simple steps, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time, perfect for busy nights.
Perfect for Gatherings: Impress your friends and family with a dish that’s not only colorful but also packed with flavors that everyone will love.
Healthy Twist: Thanks to Whole30 compliance, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat that keeps health in mind without sacrificing taste.
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients to cater to dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for any palate! Why not try your hand at exploring variations?
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Ingredients
• To embark on your flavor adventure, here are the necessary ingredients for your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
For the Chicken Skewers
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The main protein source; opt for high-quality, fresh chicken for the best results.
- Avocado Oil – Adds moisture and richness; can be substituted with light olive oil if needed.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor; table salt can be used as a substitute, but adjust the quantity as it’s saltier.
- BBQ Sauce (2 cups) – Provides flavor and sweetness; Primal Kitchen brand is recommended for a Whole30 compliant option.
- Wooden Skewers (8, pre-soaked) – Essential for grilling the chicken; alternatively, metal skewers can be used.
For the Whole30 Herby Ranch Dressing
- Light Tasting Oil (1 cup) – A base for the ranch dressing; avocado oil is excellent, or you can use light olive oil.
- Egg (1) – Helps emulsify the dressing; omit if using store-bought mayo.
- Full Fat Coconut Milk (½ cup) – Adds creaminess to the dressing; you can substitute with regular mayo if preferred.
- Lemon Juice (2 tbsp) – Provides acidity and brightness; fresh is best, but bottled can be used.
- Red Wine Vinegar (1 tbsp) – Adds flavor depth; can be substituted with apple cider vinegar.
- Onion Powder (1 tsp) & Minced Garlic (2 cloves) – Seasonings for the dressing that enhance aroma and taste.
- Fresh Dill (¼ cup) & Parsley (¼ cup) – Bring freshness to the ranch dressing; can swap with other herbs like chives.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper (1 tsp) – Adds mild heat and flavor to the ranch dressing.
For the Salad Base
- Corn (4 ears) – Adds sweetness and texture; skip this for a Whole30 version.
- Romaine Lettuce (8 cups) – Serves as the salad base, offering a crunchy and refreshing bite.
- Green Onions (6) – Adds sharpness; only use green parts for a milder flavor.
- Grape Tomatoes (2 cups, quartered) – Provide sweetness and color; substitute with cherry tomatoes if desired.
- Black Beans (1 can, drained) – Adds protein and fiber; eliminate for a Whole30 option.
- Fresh Cilantro (¼ cup) & Basil (2 tbsp) – Enhance flavor freshness and brightness in the salad.
- Avocado (1, diced) – Adds creamy texture and rich flavor, elevating the overall salad experience.
Now, gather these ingredients and get ready to create a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones! 🌞🥗
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
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Prepare Chicken: Pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to a uniform ½ inch thickness. Cube them into 2-inch pieces and marinate in avocado oil, kosher salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce for at least 20 minutes to infuse flavor.
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Make the Ranch Dressing: In a jar, combine 1 cup of light tasting oil and 1 egg. Blend until emulsified using an immersion blender. Then, add ½ cup of full fat coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Blend until combined. Stir in ¼ cup each of fresh dill and parsley, plus 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper, then refrigerate until ready to use.
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Grill Chicken and Corn: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly until tender. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting with reserved BBQ sauce until they’re charred and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
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Assemble Salad: In a large bowl, mix 8 cups of romaine lettuce, 6 chopped green onions, 2 cups of quartered grape tomatoes, 1 can of drained black beans, ¼ cup of fresh cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of fresh basil. Toss everything together with your desired amount of ranch dressing.
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Finish Salad: Remove the corn from the cob and add it to the salad along with 1 diced avocado. Toss gently to combine and then serve the grilled chicken skewers on top for a beautiful presentation.
Optional: Garnish with extra herbs or a drizzle of BBQ sauce for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
This delightful salad makes for a complete summer meal, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your dining experience to new heights.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: Tender and sweet, grilled corn complements the smoky flavors of the chicken skewers and adds a delightful crunch.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This fluffy, nutty side dish is packed with protein, balancing the meal and adding a wholesome touch.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing sweetness that pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken flavors.
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Herbed Couscous: Light and fluffy, herbed couscous adds a different texture and absorbs the tangy dressing well, making every bite satisfying.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes in a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich components of the salad.
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Iced Lemonade: No meal is complete without a cool drink. The zesty lemon flavor refreshes your palate amid the savory skewers.
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Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For a satisfying yet healthy dessert, this creamy treat offers a sweet finish that echoes the rich flavors of the main dish.
Exploring these pairings will not only complement your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad but also create a memorable dining experience!
Make Ahead Options
These BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad components are perfect for meal prep, making your life easier during busy weeks! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to deepen the flavor; just keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the Whole30 Herby Ranch dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days—the flavors will blend beautifully while chilling. To save time when serving, chop your salad ingredients (lettuce, tomatoes, green onions, and herbs) and keep them refrigerated separately until you’re ready to toss everything together. Just remember to add the avocado and corn just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful twists!
- Low-Carb: Replace black beans with chopped cucumbers or bell peppers for a refreshing crunch.
- Shrimp Swap: Use grilled shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist that’s equally scrumptious.
- Vegetarian Delight: Substitute chicken with marinated grilled cauliflower to create a hearty plant-based option.
- Fruity Addition: Toss in some diced mango or pineapple to the salad for a burst of tropical sweetness.
- Creamy Twirl: Add a dollop of avocado or guacamole to the ranch dressing for extra creaminess.
- Zesty Heat: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to kick up the spice level.
- Nutty Crunch: Add a handful of toasted almonds or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Herb Garden: Experiment with different herbs like basil or mint to brighten the dressing and salad!
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Fridge: Store the assembled salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For optimal freshness, wait to dress the salad until just before serving.
- Freezer: It’s best to freeze only the grilled chicken skewers separately. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge and reheat on the grill or stovetop until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Texture Tip: Keep fresh ingredients like lettuce and avocado separate if you plan to enjoy leftovers, as they lose their crunch when stored with dressing.
Helpful Tricks for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
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Marination Magic: Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, but aim for 4-8 hours if you can. This enhances the flavor of your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad significantly.
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Grill Thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and juiciness.
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Homemade Dressing: For the best flavor, take your time making the Whole30 Herby Ranch dressing from scratch instead of opting for store-bought options.
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Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to swap or omit ingredients based on dietary preferences, such as using cucumbers instead of black beans for a lighter salad.
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Avoid Soggy Salad: Dress the salad just before serving to maintain crispness, particularly if you’re using the ranch dressing. A fresh toss preserves texture!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe avocados for the salad?
Absolutely! When selecting avocados, look for ones that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are ripe. Avoid avocados with dark spots or overly soft areas, as these may be overripe or spoiled. For the best flavor, use ripe avocados in your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
What’s the best way to store leftover salad?
I recommend storing the assembled BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the ingredients fresh and crunchy, dress the salad just before serving. This ensures that the lettuce remains crisp and delightful!
Can I freeze the grilled chicken skewers?
Yes, you can! To freeze the grilled chicken skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. This method keeps them free from freezer burn and can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the grill or stovetop for about 5-7 minutes.
What if my chicken skewers are dry after grilling?
Very! If your chicken skewers turn out dry, there are a couple of troubleshooting tips to consider. Firstly, ensure that the chicken is marinated long enough, ideally 4-8 hours. During grilling, baste them with reserved BBQ sauce regularly to add moisture. If grilled too long, chicken can dry out, so cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F, checked with a meat thermometer, is essential.
Is the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad suitable for someone with allergies?
Certainly! To make the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad allergy-friendly, check the labels of your BBQ sauce and mayonnaise or coconut milk to ensure they fit your dietary needs. If you or a family member has specific allergies, consider making your own sauces if you’re unsure about store-bought options. For everything outside of allergens, customizing the ingredients is a great way to maintain safety while keeping it delicious!
Can I make this salad Whole30 compliant?
Absolutely! To keep this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Whole30 compliant, omit the black beans and corn. Instead, enhance the salad with extra fresh veggies like cucumber or bell peppers. You can also swap the ranch dressing for a simpler mixture of olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs if you prefer a lighter option!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Delicious Whole30 Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pound the boneless skinless chicken breasts to a uniform ½ inch thickness. Cube them into 2-inch pieces and marinate in avocado oil, kosher salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce for at least 20 minutes.
- In a jar, combine 1 cup of light tasting oil and 1 egg. Blend until emulsified. Then, add ½ cup of full fat coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 2 cloves of minced garlic. Blend until combined. Stir in ¼ cup each of fresh dill and parsley, plus 1 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper, then refrigerate until ready to use.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grill grates. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly until tender. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting with reserved BBQ sauce until they’re charred and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In a large bowl, mix 8 cups of romaine lettuce, 6 chopped green onions, 2 cups of quartered grape tomatoes, 1 can of drained black beans, ¼ cup of fresh cilantro, and 2 tablespoons of fresh basil. Toss everything together with your desired amount of ranch dressing.
- Remove the corn from the cob and add it to the salad along with 1 diced avocado. Toss gently to combine and then serve the grilled chicken skewers on top.