Dinner

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Grilled Summer Recipe

Name: BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Grilled Summer Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tbsp avocado oil; 1 tsp kosher salt; 2 cups BBQ sauce (e.g., Primal Kitchen or Stubbs); 8 wooden skewers (6-inch, pre-soaked); 1 cup avocado oil (or light-tasting olive oil); 1 egg; ½ cup full-fat coconut milk (unsweetened); 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1 tsp kosher salt; 1 tsp onion powder; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup fresh dill, chopped; ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tsp black pepper; 8 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced; 4 ears corn (grilled or boiled); 6 green onions, sliced (green part only); 2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, rinsed (optional); ¼ cup cilantro, chopped; 2 tbsp basil, chopped; 1 avocado, diced

When warm weather rolls in, light meals with bold flavors become the go-to. And few dishes strike the perfect balance of smoky, tangy, creamy, and fresh quite like a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad. This colorful summer dish takes everything you love about backyard grilling—juicy chicken, crisp lettuce, vibrant veggies—and combines it into a wholesome, flavor-packed salad bowl. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a cookout, or just trying to eat clean with flavor, this recipe delivers every time.

Looking for inspiration? Try our American salad recipes that pair beautifully with this dish.

What is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a grilled, protein-packed summer meal featuring juicy chicken cubes marinated in barbecue sauce, grilled on skewers, and served over a bed of fresh greens, corn, avocado, tomatoes, and more. The salad is often tossed in a creamy dressing—most notably a herby ranch—for a cool contrast to the bold BBQ flavor.

This isn’t your average “lettuce and tomato” salad. It’s layered with textures and flavors: the slight char of the chicken, the creaminess of avocado, the crunch of fresh romaine, and the smoky-sweet zing of barbecue sauce. The use of skewers not only gives you more surface area for that irresistible caramelized grill flavor but also makes it fun to serve.

In essence, this salad is a celebration of summer on a plate.

How BBQ Chicken Salad Became a Summer Staple in the USA

The concept took off thanks to popular American chains like California Pizza Kitchen, which put BBQ chicken salad on the map with their signature mix of corn, black beans, crispy tortilla strips, and BBQ-glazed grilled chicken. Their restaurant-style version inspired countless home-cook adaptations, like the one from The Defined Dish, which adds a Whole30 twist using clean ingredients and a homemade ranch dressing.

Over time, BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad became a favorite not just for its bold taste but for its versatility. Whether you’re grilling for the family, looking for a hearty lunch, or prepping a picnic, this salad adapts to your lifestyle and dietary needs. It’s now a staple in many households looking for that perfect marriage between healthy and indulgent.

Don’t miss our Healthy pasta salad with tuna for another protein-rich summer recipe.

Key Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Fresh ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Best Chicken Cuts for the Perfect Grilled Chicken Skewer Salad

The foundation of any BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is, of course, the chicken. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are the top choices here. Chicken breasts are lean and tender if cooked right, while thighs offer richer flavor and more forgiving texture during grilling.

To keep your chicken juicy, marinate it in BBQ sauce (like Primal Kitchen or Stubbs) and avocado oil for at least 30 minutes. Cutting the chicken into uniform chunks ensures even cooking and makes them ideal for threading onto skewers.

Fresh Ingredients That Make This BBQ Salad Pop with Flavor

A salad is only as good as its base. For a crunchy, vibrant mix, go with thinly sliced romaine lettuce. It holds dressing well and gives structure to your salad bowl.

Add-ins to include:

Corn (grilled or fresh) – Adds sweetness and a smoky note.
Avocado – Creamy and rich, balances the BBQ heat.
Black beans – Offer protein and texture. Omit for Whole30.
Grape tomatoes – Juicy, slightly acidic contrast.
Green onions and cilantro – Bring freshness and a herby lift.
Fresh basil – Rounds out the salad with a garden-fresh aroma.

Check out our Fresh summer cucumber salad for another seasonal favorite loaded with vibrant ingredients.

Best BBQ Sauce for Chicken Skewer Salad

Choosing the Right BBQ Sauce for a Smoky Chicken Skewer Recipe

Not all BBQ sauces are created equal. Choose sauces that match your flavor goals:

Sauce Type	Flavor Profile	Best For
Classic Hickory	Smoky, slightly sweet	Traditional BBQ fans
Honey BBQ	Sweet, mild heat	Kids & families
Chipotle BBQ	Spicy, smoky	Heat lovers
Whole30 Approved	No sugar, clean ingredients	Health-conscious eaters

Some go-to store brands include Primal Kitchen, Tessemae’s, and Stubbs (for a kick of heat).

Whole30 BBQ Chicken Salad: Clean BBQ Sauce Options You’ll Love

Whole30 or Paleo? Go for sugar-free BBQ sauces made with natural ingredients. You can also make a homemade one using tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, coconut aminos, garlic, and smoked paprika.

Homemade Herby Ranch for BBQ Chicken Salad

Making herby ranch for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Why This Ranch Pairs Perfectly with Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad

Unlike store-bought dressings filled with additives, the Whole30 Herby Ranch made from avocado oil, coconut milk, and fresh herbs is light, creamy, and 100% clean. It ties the salad together while offering a burst of garlic, dill, and parsley in every bite.

Make Your Own Creamy Dressing for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Use an immersion blender to emulsify 1 cup avocado oil and 1 egg (or use store-bought mayo).
Blend in coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, garlic, and seasonings.
Stir in finely chopped dill and parsley.
Store in fridge for up to one week.

This herby ranch can be used beyond salad—try it on roasted veggies, grain bowls, or wraps.

Grilling Chicken Skewers Like a Pro

How to Marinate Chicken for Skewers

Start with even 2-inch chicken cubes. Combine with avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce in a bowl. Let it sit for at least 20–30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Tip: Pre-soak your wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning.

Grilling Techniques for Juicy and Perfectly Charred Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high (350–400°F).
Oil your grates using tongs and a paper towel dipped in avocado oil.
Grill chicken 3–4 minutes per side, basting with BBQ sauce after the first flip.
Keep the grill closed while cooking for even heat distribution.

Looking for new ideas? Don’t miss our Grilled turkey tenderloins with mango salsa.

How to Assemble a Colorful, Flavorful Salad

Assembled BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ready to serve

Mixing Textures: Crunchy Lettuce, Creamy Avocado, Juicy Corn

Start with your greens, then add veggies in layers to maintain texture. The warm grilled chicken skewers go on top right before serving. The heat slightly wilts the greens and infuses them with smoky aroma.

Texture	Ingredient
Crunch	Romaine, corn, green onions
Creamy	Avocado, ranch dressing
Juicy	Tomatoes, grilled chicken
Herby	Cilantro, basil

Layering Tips for Aesthetic and Flavor Balance

Toss the salad base with ranch dressing before adding chicken.
Place skewers on top or de-skewer and mix.
Garnish with chopped herbs and extra dressing if desired.

Customizing Your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Keto Variations

Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms marinated in BBQ sauce.
Keto: Skip the corn and beans, and load up on greens, avocado, and grilled chicken.
Gluten-Free: Use certified GF BBQ sauces and ensure no gluten-containing additives.

Add-ons: Grilled Veggies, Cheese, and Crunchy Toppings

Add grilled bell peppers, red onions, or zucchini.
Crumble cotija or feta cheese (skip for Whole30).
Sprinkle sunflower seeds or crushed tortilla strips for crunch.

Try our Cabbage lasagna keto recipe for another gluten-free dinner option.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Meal Prep Tips

How to Prep Components in Advance

Grill chicken skewers and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Make herby ranch and store in an airtight jar.
Chop veggies and store them separately to avoid sogginess.

Storage Tips for Chicken, Dressing, and Salad Base

Store chicken and dressing separately from greens.
Reheat chicken briefly in a skillet or microwave.
Assemble salad fresh for best texture.

Serving Ideas & Pairings

What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Pair with light summer sides like:

Sweet potato fries
Fruit skewers
Grilled garlic bread
Quinoa or couscous

Refreshing Drinks and Side Dish Pairings

Iced tea, cucumber lemonade, or sparkling water with lime go well. For adult gatherings, try a chilled rosé or light beer.

FAQs

Can I make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ahead of time?

Yes, prep the components separately and assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.

What is a good vegetarian substitute for chicken skewers?

Marinated tofu, grilled tempeh, or portobello mushrooms work great.

Is BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Whole30 compliant?

It can be! Use Whole30-approved BBQ sauce and skip corn and beans.

How long does homemade herby ranch last?

Up to 1 week in the fridge if stored in a sealed container.

Can I use store-bought dressing instead of making it?

Absolutely. Just choose one with clean, light ingredients for best flavor.

What toppings pair well with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

Crumbled cheese, tortilla strips, grilled veggies, or roasted chickpeas.

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than a meal—it’s a summer staple that checks every box. Whether you’re craving a light lunch, planning a cookout, or just want something easy, colorful, and packed with flavor, this salad brings it all to the table.

Don’t miss our Chocolate mousse cake for a decadent dessert pairing.