Name: BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 280 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons avocado oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 cups BBQ sauce (divided, such as Primal Kitchen); 8 (6-inch) wooden skewers (pre-soaked); 1 cup avocado oil; 1 large egg; 1/2 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 garlic (minced); 1/4 cup fresh dill fronds (finely chopped); 1/4 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped); 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 4 ears corn; 2 tablespoons avocado oil; 8 cups romaine lettuce (thinly sliced (from about 2 small heads)); 6 green onions (thinly sliced (green parts only)); 16 ounces grape tomatoes (quartered (about 2 cups)); 1 (15-ounce) black beans (drained and rinsed); 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves (loosely packed, freshly chopped); 2 tablespoons fresh basil (freshly chopped); 1 avocado (peeled, seeded, and diced into medium cubes)

Introduction to BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

When it comes to creating a delicious and satisfying meal, nothing beats a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. This vibrant dish is not just a feast for the eyes; it's a game-changer for homemade food lovers seeking a fresh, flavorful option. Imagine tender, juicy grilled chicken skewers perfectly complemented by a hearty salad brimming with crisp greens, colorful vegetables, and homemade herby ranch dressing. What's not to love?

Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or simply looking to spice up your weeknight dinner, this salad offers great flexibility. You can easily swap ingredients to match your tastes. For instance, toss in your favorite vegetables or even substitute the chicken with grilled shrimp for a different flavor profile. According to the USDA, incorporating diverse vegetables into your meals can boost your nutrient intake while keeping your palate entertained.

Not only is this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delicious, but it also checks the boxes for health-conscious eaters. The combination of protein from chicken and fiber from beans and fresh veggies offers a wholesome meal that supports your active lifestyle. So grab your grilling tools, and let’s dive into this flavorful recipe that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

For the Chicken Skewers

To kick off your mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, you'll need:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean and tender, perfect for grilling.
3 tablespoons avocado oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken juicy.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing flavor.
2 cups BBQ sauce, divided: Choose a flavor that excites your taste buds!
8 (6-inch) wooden skewers, pre-soaked: Ideal for threading your chicken, ensuring they're ready for the grill.

For the Herby Ranch Dressing

This delightful dressing will elevate your salad. Gather the following:

1 cup avocado oil: A healthier fat that we love for dressing.
1 large egg: Helps create that creamy texture.
½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk: For a hint of sweetness.
2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a zesty kick.
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Balances the flavors beautifully.
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For the Salad

Complete your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with these fresh ingredients:

4 ears corn: Sweet and juicy—grill it for that smoky flavor!
2 tablespoons avocado oil: For drizzling on the corn.
8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce: A refreshing base.
6 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
16 ounces (about 2 cups) quartered grape tomatoes: Burst of flavor in each bite.
1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
¼ cup loosely packed, freshly chopped cilantro leaves
2 tablespoons freshly chopped basil
1 avocado, peeled, seeded, and diced into medium cubes: The creamy touch to finish off your salad.

These ingredients will come together beautifully, creating a satisfying and fulfilling BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s sure to delight your taste buds. You can explore more dressing options here and discover the benefits of each salad component. Enjoy creating this delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Preparation of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Grilling season doesn’t have to mean sacrificing nutrition for flavor. This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad brings the best of both worlds: tender chicken, a burst of fresh vegetables, and a tangy herby ranch dressing. Let's dive into the preparation!

Marinate the Chicken

To start, you want to ensure your chicken is both flavorful and tender. Begin by using a meat mallet or a heavy skillet to pound the boneless, skinless chicken breasts until they are a uniform ½-inch thickness. Not only does this help the chicken cook evenly, but it also allows the marinade to penetrate nicely.

Cut the chicken into 2-inch pieces and toss them in a large bowl with:

3 tablespoons of avocado oil
1 teaspoon of kosher salt
1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

Mix everything well and set aside. You can let it marinate at room temperature for at least 20 minutes or, for deeper flavor, cover it and refrigerate for 4 to 8 hours. The longer, the better!

Make the Herby Ranch Dressing

As the chicken marinates, it's time to whip up our delightful herby ranch dressing. In a wide-mouth jar, combine:

1 cup of avocado oil
1 large egg

Using an immersion blender, blend gently until the mixture turns creamy—about 10 to 15 seconds. Next, gradually move the blender up and down until you've achieved a mayonnaise-like consistency.

Now, add in:

½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon onion powder
2 minced garlic cloves
¼ cup each of chopped dill and parsley
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Blend until smooth and refrigerate until you're ready to use it. This dressing not only complements the salad beautifully but can also serve as a dip for those backyard gatherings!

Grill the Chicken and Prepare the Salad

Once your chicken is marinated, thread the pieces onto pre-soaked wooden skewers, aiming for 4 to 5 chunks per skewer. After grilling the chicken, don’t forget the corn! Drizzle the corn with avocado oil and rub to coat evenly.

Preheat your grill to medium-high (about 350°F to 400°F) and oil the grates. Grill the corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning often, until tender. Place the chicken skewers on the grill, cooking until you get those beautiful grill marks, about 3-4 minutes per side. Baste the grilled side with reserved BBQ sauce for added flavor!

Meanwhile, in a large bowl, mix together:

8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce
6 sliced green onions
2 cups quartered grape tomatoes
1 can of drained black beans
¼ cup cilantro
2 tablespoons basil

Add the dressing to your salad mix and toss until everything is well coated. After cutting the corn from the cob, fold it in along with diced avocado for that creamy texture.

Combine and Serve

With the grilled chicken skewers on top, your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is finally ready to be served! This dish isn’t just visually appealing; it’s packed with protein, vitamins, and a medley of flavors that scream summer. Whether you’re enjoying this salad solo or sharing it with friends at a barbecue, it’s bound to impress. Enjoy every bite!

Variations on BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Spicy BBQ Chicken Skewers

Craving a little heat? Simply add your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for the chicken skewers. Not only will this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad pack an extra punch, but you’ll also introduce a wonderful depth of flavor that contrasts beautifully with the fresh salad components. You could even try using a spicy BBQ sauce for a seamless taste experience!

Vegetarian BBQ Salad Option

If you're looking to cater to plant-based friends or simply enjoy a veggie-packed meal, swap the chicken for grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Toss in chunks of tofu marinated in BBQ sauce for a hearty protein boost. This twist on the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will keep everyone satisfied and is an excellent way to embrace seasonal produce. Check out this guide on grilling tips for veggies to get the perfect char and taste.

Cooking Tips and Notes for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Best Practices for Grilling

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken skewers, keep the following tips in mind:

Pre-soak your wooden skewers to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Marinate your chicken for at least 20 minutes (or up to 8 hours!) to infuse flavor and tenderness.
Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for even cooking. A hot grill creates those beautiful grill marks we all love.

Read more on grilling techniques here for extra tips!

How to Perfect the Herby Ranch Dressing

This creamy dressing elevates your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad to the next level!

Fresh herbs are key—consider using both dill and parsley for a flavor boost.
An immersion blender ensures the dressing is creamy and well-emulsified. Don't rush this part; allow it to blend fully for the best texture.
Adjust seasonings to your taste—feel free to add more garlic or some lemon zest for a refreshing kick.

For a great primer on making homemade dressings, check out this guide. Enjoy your cooking!

Serving Suggestions for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Pairing with Sides

To elevate your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, consider serving it with complementary sides. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a colorful touch and enhance the smoky flavors of the skewers. For something heartier, consider pairing the salad with a light quinoa or couscous salad, which can help soak up any leftover dressing.

Another delightful option is cornbread or garlic bread; the carb factor ties in beautifully with the BBQ theme.

Creative Plating Ideas

Make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad visually stunning! Serve the salad in a large bowl, tossing the ingredients for an inviting look, then arrange the skewers on top as a centerpiece. Drizzle extra Herby Ranch Dressing over the skewers for color and flavor contrast. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for an added pop. For a fun twist, serve it in individual mason jars for a casual, grab-and-go option at your next gathering!

For inspiration on presentation techniques, check out this article on food plating styles.

Time Breakdown for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Preparation Time

The prep work for your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad takes about 20 minutes. This includes marinating the chicken and whipping up the herby ranch dressing. You can easily multitask by making the dressing while the chicken marinates!

Grilling Time

Grilling is where the magic happens! Expect the chicken skewers and corn to take around 15-20 minutes together on the grill, giving you those fabulous, smoky flavors that define this recipe.

Total Time

In total, you’ll need about 40 minutes for this entire delicious process—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels gourmet. Just imagine the amazing aromas wafting through your kitchen!

For further tips on grilling techniques, check out this comprehensive guide to elevate your skills. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Understanding the nutritional content of your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can help make informed choices while still enjoying a delicious meal. Here are the essential facts:

Calories

This vibrant salad comes in at approximately 470 calories per serving, making it a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.

Protein

Packed with protein, the salad offers about 40 grams per serving, thanks to the grilled chicken skewers. This makes it an excellent post-workout meal to support muscle recovery.

Sodium

With around 800 mg of sodium per serving, this salad provides a tasty flavor without overwhelming your diet. However, you can always adjust the BBQ sauce to lower the sodium content if preferred.

Looking to make this salad even healthier? Consider using low-sodium BBQ sauce options or adding more fresh herbs and veggies. For more insights into balanced eating, check out resources from reputable organizations like the American Heart Association.

FAQ about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Can I use different types of meat for skewers?
Absolutely! While chicken is a popular choice for this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, feel free to experiment with other proteins. Turkey, beef, or even shrimp work wonderfully. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the meat you choose, so adjust accordingly for perfect grilling.

What can I substitute for avocado oil?
If avocado oil isn't available, don't worry! Olive oil or grapeseed oil are excellent alternatives. They’ll still give your salad the richness you desire, along with a delightful flavor profile. You can also look into hemp or canola oil if you prefer mild-tasting oils.

How do I store leftovers of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?
To keep your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad fresh, store the chicken skewers and salad components separately in airtight containers. The salad will last about 3 days in the fridge, but for the best flavor, enjoy it within 1-2 days. Need tips on storage? Check out this article on proper food preservation here.

Conclusion on BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Embrace Homemade Cooking with a Twist!

When it comes to tasty meals, the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad hits all the right notes—it's vibrant, healthy, and oh-so-satisfying. Perfect for weekday dinners or weekend gatherings, this dish encourages creativity in the kitchen. So grab those skewers, fire up the grill, and enjoy a flavorful twist on salad night!

For more delightful recipe inspiration, check out this fantastic salad guide that embraces fresh ingredients and flavors.