This Easy Healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is vibrant and full of flavor! Juicy pieces of chicken are grilled to perfection, then tossed with fresh veggies and a tasty BBQ dressing.
I love making this salad for lunch. It’s a fun way to eat veggies, and the chicken makes it really filling without being heavy. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy eating off a stick? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Chicken breasts are lean and perfect for skewers, but you can use thighs if you prefer juicier meat. Thinly sliced firm tofu or tempeh can also be great plant-based substitutes!
BBQ Sauce: Look for low-sugar varieties to keep it healthy. You can also make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices. If you’re avoiding nightshades, use a soy or mustard-based sauce instead.
Romaine Lettuce: Romaine offers a nice crunch, but you can switch it up with spinach, kale, or mixed greens for a different texture and flavor.
Avocado: Avocado adds creaminess! If you’re out, consider using diced cucumber or even a bit of creamy hummus for a different twist.
How Do You Grill Chicken Skewers to Perfection?
Grilling skewers can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll get juicy chicken every time. Here’s how:
- Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat—a hot grill helps create those lovely grill marks!
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space them out so the heat circulates evenly.
- Baste with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid burning the sugar.
- Use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
By following these simple steps, you’ll have delicious, perfectly grilled BBQ chicken skewers every time!
Easy Healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Skewers:
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (preferably low sugar or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
For The Salad:
- 4 cups chopped romaine lettuce
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup fresh or grilled corn kernels
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
- Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
For The Dressing:
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious salad takes about 25 minutes total! You’ll need 10 minutes to prep and about 15 minutes to grill the chicken skewers while you prepare the salad. It’s quick and perfect for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This will give your chicken skewers those lovely grill marks and ensure they cook evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Skewers:
In a mixing bowl, toss the cubed chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, and black pepper until well coated. Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. BBQ It Up:
Generously brush the chicken skewers with your favorite BBQ sauce. Make sure they are nice and coated—this will add a lot of flavor!
4. Grill to Perfection:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side. As they cook, you can baste them with more BBQ sauce if you like. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked (165°F or 75°C) and has beautiful grill marks.
5. Assemble the Salad:
While the chicken is grilling, prepare the salad. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine, halved cherry tomatoes, diced avocado, corn kernels, and black beans. Mix gently to combine everything.
6. Make the Tasty Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lime juice, olive oil, honey (or maple syrup), minced garlic, salt, and pepper. This will be your creamy dressing to drizzle over the salad.
7. Combine and Serve:
Pour the dressing over the salad mix and toss gently to coat all the ingredients evenly. Divide the salad onto plates, and place two BBQ chicken skewers on top of each serving.
8. Garnish and Enjoy:
Finish off your dish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves and an extra grind of black pepper if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this vibrant, healthy dish!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even firm tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different proteins may require varying times to cook through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad and chicken separately in airtight containers in the fridge. The salad is best eaten within 2 days, while the chicken can last for up to 3 days. To reheat the chicken, heat it in the microwave or on a skillet until warmed through.
Can I Make the Salad Dressing in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dressing ahead of time! Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using it, as the ingredients may settle.
What Can I Add to the Salad for Extra Flavor?
Feel free to customize your salad! Add ingredients like cucumber, radishes, bell peppers, or even feta cheese for extra flavor and crunch. You can also sprinkle some nuts or seeds for a delightful texture!
