Grilled to Perfection: The Ultimate BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

A Taste of Summer and Nostalgia

Some of my best childhood memories revolve around summer cookouts. The smell of sizzling barbecue, the sound of laughter echoing through the backyard, and the anticipation of that first juicy bite of perfectly grilled chicken—those moments are etched into my heart.

Growing up, my family had a tradition: every Sunday evening in the summer, we’d fire up the grill, gather around the picnic table, and enjoy a meal made with love. One dish that always made an appearance was a vibrant BBQ chicken salad. It wasn’t fancy, but it was special. The smoky, caramelized chicken, the fresh crunch of greens, the sweetness of grilled corn—it was the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Years later, when I first visited California Pizza Kitchen and tasted their famous BBQ Chicken Salad, I was instantly transported back to those family gatherings. It was nostalgic, yet new. That salad became my inspiration for this recipe, a dish that captures the essence of warm summer evenings and the joy of sharing a meal with the people you love.

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad isn’t just a recipe—it’s an experience. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, sweet, tangy, and fresh, with every ingredient carefully chosen to create a harmonious and satisfying meal. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a backyard barbecue, or meal prep for the week, this salad will leave you coming back for more.

Why This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a Must-Try

1. Perfect for Any Occasion

This salad is versatile enough to be a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a show-stopping dish for summer gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough to serve at a dinner party.

2. A Healthy and Satisfying Meal

Packed with lean protein from grilled chicken, fiber-rich black beans, heart-healthy avocado, and a variety of fresh vegetables, this salad is as nutritious as it is delicious. The homemade herby ranch dressing adds creaminess without unnecessary preservatives or additives.

3. Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best things about this salad is its adaptability. You can swap out ingredients based on dietary preferences, add extra toppings for more crunch, or use a store-bought dressing if you’re short on time.

4. A Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Combination

The smoky grilled chicken, the sweetness of corn, the creaminess of avocado, and the tangy BBQ sauce come together in a way that keeps every bite exciting. It’s a dish that satisfies every craving—savory, sweet, crunchy, and creamy all at once.

Pro Tips for the Best BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

1. Get the Most Flavor from Your Chicken

Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours (or overnight) to let the BBQ sauce penetrate the meat fully. This results in juicier, more flavorful chicken.

2. Don’t Skip the Grill Prep

To prevent sticking, always oil the grill grates before cooking. Also, make sure the grill is properly preheated before placing the chicken on it—this helps create those beautiful sear marks.

3. Balance Your Dressing

If you’re making the homemade herby ranch, adjust the lemon juice and vinegar to your liking. Some prefer a more tangy kick, while others like it creamier and more mellow.

4. Use Fresh Herbs

Fresh cilantro and basil make all the difference in this salad. They add a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can’t replicate.

5. Serve Immediately for the Best Texture

While the chicken and dressing can be prepared ahead of time, assemble the salad just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp and the flavors vibrant.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups BBQ sauce (Primal Kitchen recommended)
• 8 wooden skewers (6-inch, pre-soaked)

For the Herby Ranch Dressing:

• 1 cup light-tasting oil (avocado or light olive oil)
• 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)
• ½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Salad:

• 4 ears corn (omit for Whole30)
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 8 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced (or 2 small heads)
• 6 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered (16 oz)
• 1 can black beans (15 oz), drained and rinsed (omit for Whole30)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 avocado, peeled, seeded, and diced

Directions:

Marinate the Chicken:

1. Pound the chicken to an even ½-inch thickness using a meat mallet or heavy skillet.
2. Cut into 2-inch cubes and place in a bowl with avocado oil, salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Mix well.
3. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for 4–8 hours for a deeper flavor.

Prepare the Herby Ranch Dressing:

1. Pour the oil into a wide-mouth jar.
2. Crack the egg into the oil and let it settle.
3. Insert an immersion blender, keeping the blade at the bottom until a thick mayo forms (about 10 seconds).
4. Slowly move the blender up and down until fully emulsified.
5. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Blend again.
6. Stir in dill, parsley, and black pepper. Refrigerate until needed (keeps for up to a week).

Grill the Chicken & Prepare the Salad:

1. Rub the corn with avocado oil.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (350–400°F) and oil the grates.
3. Grill the corn for about 10–12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes.
4. Place chicken skewers on the grill, cooking for 3–4 minutes on one side.
5. Flip, baste with reserved BBQ sauce, and cook for another 3–4 minutes with the grill closed.
6. Once cooked, transfer the corn and chicken off the grill. Let the corn cool before cutting kernels off the cob.

Assemble the Salad:

1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, and basil.
2. Toss with the desired amount of herby ranch dressing.
3. Add corn kernels and diced avocado, gently mixing to combine.
4. Serve the salad with grilled BBQ chicken skewers on top. Enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: ~550
• Protein: ~45g
• Carbohydrates: ~40g
• Fat: ~28g
• Fiber: ~10g
• Sugar: ~12g

Enjoy this vibrant and flavor-packed BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, perfect for a fresh summer meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?

Yes! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare different components in advance:

• Grill and store the chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Make the herby ranch dressing and refrigerate for up to a week.
• Chop all vegetables and store them separately to keep them crisp.
  When ready to serve, simply toss everything together and enjoy.

2. What Are Some Good Substitutions for This Recipe?

• For the BBQ Sauce: Use a sugar-free BBQ sauce for a healthier option or a spicy variety for extra heat.
• For the Protein: Swap chicken for grilled shrimp, tofu, or even steak.
• For the Greens: While romaine is great for crunch, you can use mixed greens, arugula, or kale.
• For the Dressing: If you’re short on time, a high-quality store-bought ranch or avocado-lime dressing works well.

3. Is This Recipe Whole30-Friendly?

Yes, with a few modifications:

• Omit black beans and corn, as they are not Whole30-approved.
• Use a Whole30-compliant BBQ sauce and homemade mayo in the herby ranch dressing.

4. Can I Cook the Chicken Without a Grill?

Absolutely! If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken skewers in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake them in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

5. How Do I Store Leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store the chicken, dressing, and salad separately in airtight containers. The salad itself will wilt if mixed with dressing and left for too long, so it’s best to keep it dry until ready to eat.

Pairing Ideas: What to Serve with This Salad

1. Light and Refreshing Drinks

This salad pairs beautifully with iced tea, lemonade, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc. For a more indulgent pairing, a smoky mezcal cocktail complements the BBQ flavors perfectly.

2. Side Dishes for a Full Meal

• Grilled Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness enhances the smoky BBQ flavor.
• Cornbread or Garlic Bread: A great way to soak up any extra dressing.
• Roasted Vegetables: A simple medley of zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus makes a nutritious addition.

Conclusion: A Summer Staple Worth Making Again and Again

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad isn’t just about great flavors—it’s about creating memories around the table. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm evening with family, bringing it to a summer cookout, or simply treating yourself to a nourishing and delicious meal, this dish delivers on every level.

From the smoky grilled chicken to the creamy herby ranch dressing, every bite is a reminder of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. So fire up the grill, gather your favorite people, and make this salad a new tradition in your home.

Food is more than just sustenance—it’s an experience, a story, and a way to connect. This salad is all of those things and more. Enjoy!

Print