There's something truly delightful about the combination of smoky BBQ flavors and fresh ingredients that makes this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad stand out. Inspired by the iconic California Pizza Kitchen salad, this vibrant dish brings a balance of nourishment and taste—perfect for those evenings when you crave homemade goodness instead of fast food.
Imagine biting into tender, BBQ-glazed chicken skewers, mingled with crisp romaine, sweet tomatoes, and creamy avocado—all drizzled with a mouthwatering Whole30 herby ranch dressing. Whether you're looking for a satisfying weeknight meal or an impressive dish to share at a gathering, this salad is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser that ticks all the right boxes.
As the grill sizzles and the aroma fills the kitchen, you’ll know you’ve discovered a new favorite. Let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a delicious feast!
Why is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Amazing?
Satisfying Flavors: This bbq chicken skewer salad beautifully merges smoky, BBQ chicken with fresh, colorful vegetables, delivering a taste that's truly satisfying.
Customizable Options: Feel free to adapt it for various dietary preferences, like going Whole30 compliant.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with nutrients, it transforms fast food cravings into a healthy meal option.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: It’s a vibrant dish that impresses guests and family, making every occasion a celebration.
For even more inspiration, check out our delicious Bang Bang Chicken Bowl to see how versatile chicken can be!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Ingredients
• The following ingredients will help you create the perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, blending texture and flavors for a delightful feast.
For the Chicken Skewers:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – These provide a lean protein base, making your salad hearty.
- Avocado Oil – Ideal for coating the chicken before grilling, offering a light flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Helps to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- BBQ Sauce (Primal Kitchen Brand recommended) – This adds the signature smoky BBQ flavor crucial for a delicious bbq chicken skewer salad.
- 6-inch Wooden Skewers – Soak these in water before grilling to prevent burning.
For the Whole30 Herby Ranch:
- Light Tasting Oil (Avocado Oil recommended) – A key base for your creamy dressing.
- Egg (Omit if Using Store-Bought Mayo) – Acts as an emulsifier for a smoother texture.
- Unsweetened Full-Fat Coconut Milk – This adds creaminess and a hint of sweetness to the dressing.
- Lemon Juice – A splash of acidity, brightening up your ranch flavor.
- Red Wine Vinegar – Enhances the dressing with an additional tangy flavor.
- Kosher Salt – Amplifies overall taste in the dressing.
- Onion Powder – Contributes umami depth for a richer flavor.
- Minced Garlic – Introduces a savory undertone to the ranch.
- Fresh Dill Fronds – Provides a delightful, herbal flavor.
- Fresh Parsley – Offers a fresh and vibrant touch.
- Freshly Cracked Black Pepper – A must for a little heat and depth.
For the Salad:
- Ears of Corn (omit for Whole30) – Adds natural sweetness and crunch if included.
- Avocado Oil – Use this to brush on the corn for a perfect grill.
- Romaine Lettuce (or 2 small heads) – This forms the crisp base of your salad.
- Green Onions (green part only) – Adds a subtle onion flavor that complements the other ingredients.
- Grape Tomatoes (quartered) – Offers bursts of sweetness and acidity throughout the salad.
- Black Beans (omit for Whole30) – Provides extra protein and texture.
- Fresh Cilantro Leaves (loosely packed) – Introduces a fresh, citrusy flavor.
- Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds a peppery herbal note that enhances the overall taste.
- Avocado (diced medium) – Contributes a creamy richness that pairs beautifully with the BBQ chicken.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness, then cube them into 2-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with avocado oil and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- Make the Herby Ranch: In a wide-mouth jar, whisk avocado oil then add the egg and let it sink. Use an immersion blender to blend until a thick mayo forms. Gradually move the blender up and down while adding coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Once combined, mix in dill, parsley, and black pepper. Refrigerate until you're ready to serve.
- Grill Chicken and Make Salad: Brush the corn with avocado oil and grill over medium-high heat (350-400°F) for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes until tender. Oil the grill grates, place chicken skewers on the grill, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until you see nice grill marks. Flip them, baste with reserved BBQ sauce, and cook until fully done, another 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine your salad ingredients—romaine, green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans (if not Whole30), cilantro, and basil. Add the desired amount of ranch dressing to create a creamy, flavorful mixture. Remove corn from the cob and fold it in along with diced avocado. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve the grilled BBQ chicken skewers on top of the vibrant salad for a refreshing, hearty dish that makes every bite memorable.
Optional: Garnish with extra fresh herbs for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This enhances flavor, but for the best results, let it marinate for up to 8 hours.
Grilling Greatness: Ensure your grill is preheated and well-oiled. This prevents sticking and creates gorgeous grill marks on your BBQ chicken skewers.
Avoid Dry Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on your skewers.
Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables in your salad. This ensures the brightest flavors in your bbq chicken skewer salad—no limp greens allowed!
Customize to Taste: Feel free to omit ingredients like black beans or corn to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Enjoy the freedom to create your perfect salad!
What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
Elevate your dining experience by exploring delicious accompaniments that harmonize beautifully with this vibrant salad.
- Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness, perfectly complementing the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy, nutrient-rich side that adds a hearty texture and nutty flavor to balance the freshness of the salad.
- Grilled Asparagus: Tender and slightly charred, grilled asparagus brings a pop of color and a satisfying bite alongside the salad's crunch.
- Avocado Corn Salsa: A fresh, zesty mix that adds brightness and a creamy element—perfect for scooping alongside your BBQ chicken skewers.
- Herbed Garlic Bread: Crispy, warm bread slathered with garlic butter and herbs rounds out the meal, perfect for soaking up any leftover ranch dressing.
- Refreshing Lemonade: A cool, slightly tangy drink that cleanses the palate and enhances the BBQ flavor profile for a summery feel.
- Chocolate Avocado Mousse: For dessert, this creamy mousse provides a rich, indulgent finish while keeping things wholesome, making it a tempting but healthy treat.
- Cucumber Mint Salad: A light, refreshing salad that adds another layer of greens and a cooling effect, perfect to balance the flavors of the BBQ chicken.
- Sparkling Water with Lime: This bubbly drink offers a refreshing zing that complements the salad without overpowering its vibrant flavors.
How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Fridge: Store any leftover bbq chicken skewer salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Chicken Skewers: If made ahead, keep chicken skewers separate until ready to serve. They can last in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze grilled chicken skewers separately in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat chicken skewers, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, ensuring they stay juicy.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Variations
Feel free to give your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a personal touch with these exciting variations!
- Whole30 Ranch: Use store-bought Whole30 compliant ranch dressing if desired, and omit the egg and coconut milk for simplicity.
- BBQ Sauce Swap: Try a different brand of BBQ sauce or whip up your own using compliant ingredients for a unique flavor.
- Chickpeas Instead: Instead of black beans, add cooked chickpeas for a nutty texture and an extra protein boost.
- Vegetable Medley: Toss in other veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots, offering crunch and additional nutrients.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salad for a burst of heat that complements the BBQ flavors beautifully.
- Fruit Addition: Consider adding diced mango or pineapple for a sweet contrast to the savory chicken and tangy dressing.
- Nutty Flavor: Include toasted almonds or walnuts for a delightful crunch that enhances the salad's texture.
- Herb Boost: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint to brighten up the overall flavor profile of the dish.
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for my skewers?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts that are plump and fresh, without dark spots or an unpleasant odor. Opt for organic or free-range varieties for better taste and quality, if possible.
How long can I store leftovers of this salad?
You can keep any leftover BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to store the chicken separate from the salad ingredients to keep everything fresh and crisp.
Can I freeze the chicken skewers?
Very! To freeze the grilled chicken skewers, let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What should I do if the chicken is dry after grilling?
Keep an eye on your cooking time! If your chicken skewers turn out dry, it could be that they were overcooked. Ensure you’re checking the internal temperature and removing them from the grill once they reach 165°F (74°C). You can also marinate for a longer time for extra juiciness!
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary allergies?
Definitely! This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is adaptable for various dietary considerations. For those who are gluten-sensitive, using a Whole30 compliant BBQ sauce ensures no gluten is present. Always double-check ingredient labels if someone has specific allergies. If necessary, substitute items like black beans with other ingredients like chickpeas or simply omit them.
How can I make this recipe Whole30 compliant?
To have a Whole30 compliant BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, make sure to omit black beans and corn, and use a Whole30 approved BBQ sauce. You can also use store-bought Whole30 ranch dressing to save time, just be sure it meets Whole30 standards!
Irresistibly Juicy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad You’ll Love
There's something truly delightful about the combination of smoky BBQ flavors and fresh ingredients that makes this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad stand out.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Whole30
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (Primal Kitchen Brand recommended)
- 6 6-inch wooden skewers
- ½ cup light tasting oil (avocado oil recommended)
- 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)
- 1 cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- ¼ cup fresh dill fronds
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 ears of corn (omit for Whole30)
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 head romaine lettuce (or 2 small heads)
- ¼ cup green onions (green part only)
- 1 cup grape tomatoes (quartered)
- 1 can black beans (omit for Whole30)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro leaves (loosely packed)
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves
- 1 avocado (diced medium)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness, then cube them into 2-inch pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with avocado oil and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or you can refrigerate it for up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.
- Make the Herby Ranch: In a wide-mouth jar, whisk avocado oil then add the egg and let it sink. Use an immersion blender to blend until a thick mayo forms. Gradually move the blender up and down while adding coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Once combined, mix in dill, parsley, and black pepper. Refrigerate until you're ready to serve.
- Grill Chicken and Make Salad: Brush the corn with avocado oil and grill over medium-high heat (350-400°F) for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes until tender. Oil the grill grates, place chicken skewers on the grill, and cook for about 3-4 minutes on the first side until you see nice grill marks. Flip them, baste with reserved BBQ sauce, and cook until fully done, another 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large bowl, combine your salad ingredients—romaine, green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans (if not Whole30), cilantro, and basil. Add the desired amount of ranch dressing to create a creamy, flavorful mixture. Remove corn from the cob and fold it in along with diced avocado. Toss gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve the grilled BBQ chicken skewers on top of the vibrant salad for a refreshing, hearty dish that makes every bite memorable.
Notes
- Perfect Marinade Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes. This enhances flavor, but for the best results, let it marinate for up to 8 hours.
- Grilling Greatness: Ensure your grill is preheated and well-oiled. This prevents sticking and creates gorgeous grill marks on your BBQ chicken skewers.
- Avoid Dry Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooking can lead to dryness, so keep an eye on your skewers.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and vegetables in your salad. This ensures the brightest flavors in your bbq chicken skewer salad—no limp greens allowed!
- Customize to Taste: Feel free to omit ingredients like black beans or corn to fit your dietary needs or preferences. Enjoy the freedom to create your perfect salad!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 salad
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 48g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
