Description

A delicious and healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad featuring tender grilled chicken marinated in smoky barbecue sauce, served atop a bed of fresh mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and an optional sprinkle of cheddar cheese. Perfect for a flavorful and satisfying main course that combines the smoky char of grilled chicken with the crisp freshness of summer vegetables.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
½ cup barbecue sauce (plus more for brushing)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Wooden or metal skewers

For the Salad

6 cups mixed salad greens
1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
1 cup cucumber (sliced)
½ cup red onion (thinly sliced)
1 avocado (sliced)
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Ranch or vinaigrette dressing (for serving)

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Instructions

Marinate the chicken: In a medium bowl, toss chicken cubes with olive oil, barbecue sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld.
Prepare skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during grilling. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers evenly.
Preheat grill: Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat, ensuring it is hot enough to give the chicken a nice char.
Grill the chicken: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally. During the last few minutes, brush the chicken with extra barbecue sauce to enhance flavor and moisture. Grill until the chicken is fully cooked and has charred spots.
Assemble the salad: On a large platter or individual plates, arrange the mixed greens as a base. Top with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, avocado slices, and shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the skewers and place it atop the salad. Drizzle with your favorite ranch or vinaigrette dressing and serve immediately for the freshest taste and texture.

Notes

For a Southwestern twist, add grilled corn, black beans, or tortilla strips to the salad.
To make this salad low-carb, skip the cheese and use a sugar-free barbecue sauce.
If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water before grilling prevents burning and prolongs usability.
This salad can easily be customized with other vegetables or your preferred dressing based on taste preferences.