Introduction to BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a Game-Changer for Homemade Meals
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and packs a flavor punch, BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is your answer. This dish bridges the gap between casual dining and gourmet flair, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends. Imagine tender, juicy chicken grilled to perfection, drizzled with rich BBQ sauce, paired with a medley of fresh veggies and topped off with a creamy herby ranch dressing. It’s a feast that looks as delightful as it tastes!
One of the best aspects of this salad is its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you're catering to a Whole30 plan or just looking for a refreshing meal to lighten up your week, this salad has options for everyone. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy those summer flavors year-round!
So why not gather your friends or family and take your next homemade meal to the next level? Try the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad and watch as it becomes a regular in your rotation. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll create a scrumptious dish that genuinely elevates your dining experience.
Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
When it comes to crafting a vibrant and delicious BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, the key lies in selecting high-quality ingredients that enhance both flavor and texture. Let’s break it down!
Chicken Skewers
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: Fresh chicken ensures tenderness.
- 3 tablespoon avocado oil: A healthy fat that helps with marinating.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances flavors.
- 2 cups BBQ sauce: Opt for a brand you love—Primal Kitchen delivers a fantastic balance of sweetness and smokiness.
- 8 [6-inch] wooden skewers: Pre-soaked to prevent burning.
Herby Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup light-tasting oil: Avocado oil provides a neutral flavor. Alternatively, you can try a light olive oil.
- 1 egg: If you’re not using store-bought mayo, this adds creaminess.
- ½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk: Offers a subtle sweetness.
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon red vinegar: Brightness and tanginess elevate the dressing.
- Add fresh herbs like dill and parsley for a refreshing taste.
Salad Components
- 8 cups romaine lettuce: Crisp greens for a fresh base.
- 6 green onions and 2 cups grape tomatoes for crunch and sweetness.
- Optional: 4 ears of corn for a juicy addition (omit for Whole30).
- 1 avocado, diced, provides creaminess and heart-healthy fats.
Feel free to explore variations with these ingredients to make the salad truly your own!
Preparing BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
When it comes to a refreshing yet hearty meal, there’s nothing quite like a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that brings together smoky grilled chicken and vibrant veggies. Follow these simple steps to create a meal that not only tastes delicious but is sure to impress anyone you serve it to!
Marinate the Chicken Skewers
First things first, we want to ensure our chicken is flavorful. Start by using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet to pound the chicken into uniform pieces about ½ inch thick. Cube the chicken into 2-inch pieces, and place them in a large bowl. Add in 3 tablespoons of avocado oil, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 cup of barbecue sauce. Stir until everything is well combined, and let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature or up to 4-8 hours in the fridge if you have the time. This step is crucial for ensuring your chicken is juicy and packed with flavor!
Blend the Herby Ranch Dressing
While the chicken marinates, it’s the perfect opportunity to whip up a creamy dressing. In a jar—just slightly wider than the head of your immersion blender—pour 1 cup of light-tasting oil, crack in 1 egg, and let it sink to the bottom. Blend for about 10 seconds until creamy mayonnaise forms. Add ½ cup of unsweetened full-fat coconut milk, 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and your herbs. Blend until well combined—this Herby Ranch dressing is a game-changer for your salad! It’s fresh, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser.
Grill the Chicken and Corn
Now onto the grilling! Drizzle 4 ears of corn with avocado oil, then heat your grill to medium-high (350–400°F). Once hot, add the corn, turning every couple of minutes until tender (about 10-12 minutes). Place the chicken skewers on the grill, cooking for 3-4 minutes per side, basting with reserved BBQ sauce, until cooked through. The grill marks are not just for show; they add amazing flavors!
Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine 8 cups of thinly sliced romaine lettuce, 6 green onions, 2 cups of quartered grape tomatoes, and any other goodies you might like to add. Toss these together, and don’t forget to drizzle in your delicious Herby Ranch dressing. This salad is where all the vibrant colors come to life!
Combine and Serve
Once your corn has cooled, shave it off the cob and add it to the salad along with 1 diced avocado and fresh herbs for garnish. Gently toss everything to combine and bring your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad to the table. Top it with the freshly grilled chicken skewers, and you’re ready to dig in!
This refreshing take on the classic salad not only provides a burst of flavor but is also perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying on your own. Enjoy!
Variations on BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Southwestern BBQ Chicken Salad
Spice up your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with a Southwestern flair! Add ingredients like black beans, diced bell peppers, and a touch of chipotle peppers for that smoky kick. You can also toss in some crispy tortilla strips for added crunch, and serve with a zesty lime vinaigrette instead of ranch dressing. This variation is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients—perfect for a midday boost!
Mediterranean BBQ Chicken Salad
Craving something fresh and vibrant? Try a Mediterranean twist! Incorporate ingredients like Kalamata olives, cucumber, and feta cheese for an extra layer of flavor. Drizzle the salad with a lemon-oregano dressing to brighten things up. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and crisp veggies will transport your taste buds straight to the Mediterranean coast. Both variants elevate your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad while keeping it nutritious and satisfying!
For more tips on salad variations, check out EatingWell's 10 Healthiest Salads.
Cooking tips and notes for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Choosing the right BBQ sauce
When it comes to achieving the perfect flavor for your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, selecting the right BBQ sauce is crucial. Opt for a sauce that balances sweetness, tang, and a hint of smokiness. Brands like Primal Kitchen provide a fantastic combination of flavor without artificial ingredients. Feel free to sample a few and pick one that complements your taste buds!
Tips for skewering chicken
Before you start skewering, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. Cut the chicken into uniform pieces (about 2 inches) to ensure even cooking. When threading the chicken onto the skewers, leave a little space between each piece for heat circulation. This simple tweak can make all the difference in getting that juicy, perfectly cooked chicken for your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Serving suggestions for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Creative serving ideas
Elevate your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad presentation by arranging it on a large, colorful platter. Drizzle your herby ranch dressing artfully on top, creating a burst of flavor and visual appeal. For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mason jars for casual gatherings or picnics—the layers of ingredients look visually stunning! Consider adding grilled vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini on the skewers for extra color and nutrition.
Pairings that complement the salad
To round out your meal, serve your salad with a side of crispy tortilla chips or fresh baked bread to soak up the delicious dressing. Enhance your events with refreshing beverages like sparkling water infused with citrus or an aromatic iced herbal tea. This combination not only makes for a hearty meal but also impresses your guests with its vibrant flavors and inviting atmosphere.
Time details for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Preparation time
Getting your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad ready is a breeze with just 20 minutes of preparation. This includes marinating the chicken, mixing up that delightful herby ranch dressing, and prepping your fresh veggies.
Cooking time
Once you hit the grill, it’s all about the timing! Cooking the chicken skewers takes about 15 minutes, while the corn takes around 10-12 minutes to achieve that perfect tender finish.
Total time
All in all, you’ll spend about 35 minutes from start to finish for this flavorful and satisfying meal. So, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this salad is a quick and wholesome option for everyone.
Cooking a delicious, hearty meal doesn’t have to take all day! Want more tips on making your BBQ chicken extra juicy? Check out this grilling guide for expert advice!
Nutritional Information for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Calories
This delightful BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad packs about 953 calories per serving. It’s a nutrient-dense meal, filling you up without leaving you feeling heavy.
Protein
You'll get a hearty 39 grams of protein from this salad, thanks primarily to the chicken. It's an excellent option for those looking to fuel their workouts or maintain muscle mass.
Sodium
Be mindful of the sodium content, as it clocks in at 1,971 mg per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using a low-sodium BBQ sauce or adjusting seasonings accordingly. Always good to keep an eye on those blood pressure levels! For more tips, check out the American Heart Association's guidelines.
FAQs about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! While this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad shines with juicy grilled chicken, feel free to swap it out for proteins like shrimp, beef, or even plant-based options like tofu. Each protein brings its unique flavor and texture, ensuring your salad remains delightful.
How can I store leftovers?
Storing leftovers is easy! Place any uneaten salad and grilled chicken in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The salad can last for up to 3 days, while the chicken will stay fresh for about 4 days. Just remember to keep the Herby Ranch dressing separate to maintain the salad's crunch!
What are some creative uses for leftover Herby Ranch?
Don’t let that delicious Herby Ranch go to waste! Use it as a flavorful dip for fresh veggies, as a spread on sandwiches, or even drizzled over grilled veggies for an extra burst of flavor. It also makes a great marinade for your next protein adventure!
By incorporating these tips, you'll maximize your culinary experience with the tasty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!
Conclusion on BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Making your own meals, like the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, not only allows you to control ingredients but also enables you to customize flavors to suit your preferences. By preparing this delightful salad, you’re embracing healthy eating habits and nurturing your culinary skills, all while enjoying flavorful, wholesome dishes. It's a win-win!
BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
Equipment
- Grill
- large bowl
- immersion blender
- meat mallet
- skewers
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoon avocado oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 cups bbq sauce I use Primal Kitchen brand
- 8 6-inch wooden skewers pre-soaked
For the W30 Herby Ranch
- 1 cup light tasting oil I use avocado oil
- ½ cup unsweetened full fat coconut milk
- 2 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill fronds
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
For the Salad
- 4 ears corn omit for Whole30
- 2 tablespoon avocado oil
- 8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce or 2 small heads
- 6 green onions thinly sliced (green part only)
- 2 cups quartered grape tomatoes or 16 ounces
- 1 15-ounce can black beans drained and rinsed, omit for Whole30
- ¼ cup loosely packed freshly chopped cilantro leaves
- 2 tablespoon freshly chopped basil leaves
- 1 avocado peeled and diced medium
Instructions
Marinate the chicken
- Using a meat mallet or the bottom of a heavy skillet, pound the chicken until it is a uniform ½ inch thickness. Cube into 2-inch pieces and place in a large bowl with the oil, salt, and 1 cup of bbq sauce. Stir until well combined. Set aside to let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate for 4-8 hours to refrigerate and marinate longer, if desired.
Make the Herby-Ranch
- Pour oil into a wide mouth jar. Crack the egg into the oil and let sink to the bottom of the jar. Insert the immersion blender into the jar and rest the blade on top of the yolk. Do not move the head until a white, creamy, thick mayo forms at the bottom by the head--about 10 seconds at least. Now, slowly raise the immersion blender up and down until the entire jar has emulsified into a mayo. Add the coconut milk, lemon, red wine vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic and blend once more to combine. Stir in the dill, parsley and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use. This keeps for up to 1 week in the fridge.
Grill the Chicken and Make the salad
- Drizzle the corn with the avocado oil and rub to evenly coat. Heat grill over medium-high heat and oil the grill grates. When hot, add the corn and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes total and turning every 2 minutes. Meanwhile, also place the skewers on the grill and cook on the first side for 3 to 4 minutes. Flip the skewers and then baste the grilled side generously with the reserved BBQ sauce, continue to cook until chicken is cooked through and nice grill marks have formed on both sides, 3-4 more minutes. Transfer the corn and the chicken aside and let the corn cool enough to handle.
- In a large bowl combine the lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro and basil. Add your desired amount of dressing to the salad and toss until the lettuce is well coated.
- Remove the corn from the cob and add to the salad along with the diced avocado, gently toss once more to combine.
- Serve with the grilled chicken and enjoy!
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