The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad You Need This Summer

Too hot to turn on the oven? This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is for you.

Summer is all about easy, fresh meals that don’t feel like work. You get smoky grilled chicken and a refreshing avocado dressing in every bite. It is the ultimate healthy reset for your busy weeknights.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a total game changer for your meal routine. It delivers bold, smoky flavors without the heavy gut-punch of traditional BBQ. It is ready in just 35 minutes total.

You will love how the creamy avocado cuts through the sweet BBQ sauce. It is high in protein and keeps you feeling full. This dish is perfect for summer weeknights when you want to eat well.

Simple Method

Making this salad is incredibly straightforward and fast. You just thread the chicken, grill it, and blend the dressing. Even if you are a grilling beginner, you can do this easily.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses mostly pantry staples and fresh seasonal produce.

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread cubed chicken onto wooden or metal skewers, leaving a small space between pieces.
3. Brush chicken skewers with olive oil and then coat generously with BBQ sauce.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
7. Divide the salad mixture into four plates or bowls.
8. Remove chicken from skewers or place skewers directly on top of the salad beds.
9. Drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over each portion and serve immediately.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this salad immediately while the chicken is still hot. The contrast of temperatures makes it feel like a restaurant meal. Pair it with a cold glass of iced tea or a light beer. It is the perfect healthy reset dinner for a warm evening.

How to Store Leftovers

Store the chicken and salad components separately for the best results. The avocado dressing stays fresh for about two days. Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. Squeeze extra lime juice on the dressing to prevent browning.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Soak wooden skewers for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Don’t overcrowd the chicken pieces on the skewers for even cooking.
• Use a high-quality BBQ sauce for the best flavor profile.
• Make sure your grill is fully preheated before adding the chicken.
• Add a splash more water to the dressing if it is too thick.
• Double the chicken to have extra protein for tomorrow’s lunch.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Swap chicken for shrimp for an even faster cooking time.
• Add pickled jalapeños if you want a spicy kick.
• Use roasted sweet potatoes instead of corn for a fall twist.
• Try a peach BBQ sauce for a fruity summer vibe.

Common Questions

Can I make this on a stovetop?

Yes, you can use a cast-iron grill pan on your stove. It will still give you those beautiful char marks. Just keep your kitchen well-ventilated!

Is this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad good for meal prep?

Absolutely, just keep the dressing on the side until you eat. This prevents the romaine lettuce from getting soggy during the day.

You need this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad in your life right now. It is fresh, fast, and totally crave-worthy!

— Jasmine

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 485

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup frozen or canned corn kernels
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 ripe avocado , pitted and peeled
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 clove garlic , minced
• 2 tablespoons wate r
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method

 

1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread cubed chicken onto wooden or metal skewers, leaving a small space between pieces.
3. Brush chicken skewers with olive oil and then coat generously with BBQ sauce.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. In a food processor or blender, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, salt, pepper, and water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
6. In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine, black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
7. Divide the salad mixture into four plates or bowls.
8. Remove chicken from skewers or place skewers directly on top of the salad beds.
9. Drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over each portion and serve immediately.