BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad – Easy, Healthy Recipe

Looking for a fresh and satisfying meal that brings both flavor and nutrition to your plate? This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad combines the savory goodness of grilled chicken with vibrant veggies, all topped with a tangy, creamy Whole30 Herby Ranch. It’s the perfect dish for those warm summer days or when you’re craving a healthy, filling salad. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick dinner for the family, this salad will be a hit.

Why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a Must-Try

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad isn’t just any salad—it’s a complete meal packed with bold flavors. The juicy grilled chicken skewers, drenched in smoky BBQ sauce, are complemented by fresh greens, crunchy corn, and a zesty herby ranch dressing. It’s a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it an ideal option for anyone looking to eat well without sacrificing taste. Plus, it’s customizable to fit various dietary preferences, including Whole30, gluten-free, and dairy-free options.

Ingredients

To make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken Skewers:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The lean protein for this dish, providing a juicy, tender texture.
• Avocado Oil: Used to marinate the chicken, adding moisture and a subtle flavor.
• Kosher Salt: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the overall flavor.
• BBQ Sauce: A flavorful, smoky base that coats the chicken skewers. Opt for a Whole30-approved brand like Primal Kitchen for a healthier option.
• Wooden Skewers: To grill the chicken, adding that perfect char and grill marks.

For the Whole30 Herby Ranch Dressing:

• Light Tasting Oil (Avocado or Olive Oil): A neutral oil that provides the base for the dressing, adding creaminess without overpowering flavors.
• Egg: If you’re making the dressing from scratch, the egg emulsifies the ingredients, creating a rich, creamy consistency.
• Unsweetened Coconut Milk: This adds a dairy-free creaminess to the dressing, ensuring it stays within Whole30 guidelines.
• Lemon Juice & Red Wine Vinegar: These ingredients give the dressing a tangy kick.
• Kosher Salt, Onion Powder, Garlic: Key seasonings that elevate the flavor profile of the ranch dressing.
• Fresh Dill & Parsley: These herbs provide a fresh, aromatic taste that brightens up the dressing.
• Black Pepper: A classic seasoning that adds a bit of heat to balance out the other flavors.

For the Salad:

• Corn: Grilled to perfection, adding a slight sweetness and smoky flavor to the salad. If you’re following Whole30, you can omit the corn.
• Lettuce (Romaine): A crisp base for the salad, offering a light and refreshing texture.
• Green Onions: A crunchy, mildly oniony addition that adds depth to the salad.
• Grape Tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they provide a burst of color and flavor.
• Black Beans: An optional addition that adds fiber and texture. You can leave these out if you’re on a Whole30 diet.
• Cilantro & Basil: Fresh herbs to add flavor and a pop of color.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado complements the smoky chicken and adds a luxurious texture.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

If you’re looking to make swaps for dietary preferences or what you have on hand, consider these options:

• Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful cut of meat, you can replace chicken breasts with boneless, skinless thighs.
• Coconut Yogurt: If you’re looking for a dairy-free ranch alternative, coconut yogurt can replace the coconut milk in the dressing for a thicker texture.
• Zucchini or Bell Peppers: Instead of corn, you can grill zucchini or bell peppers for a low-carb, Whole30-friendly alternative.
• Quinoa: Swap out black beans for quinoa to add a light, nutritious grain.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: Start by pounding the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness. Cube the chicken into 2-inch pieces and place in a large bowl. Add avocado oil, salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce. Stir to coat the chicken and set aside to marinate for 20 minutes or refrigerate for 4-8 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Prepare the Herby Ranch Dressing: In a wide-mouth jar, add avocado oil and crack an egg into it. Insert an immersion blender into the jar and blend until the mixture thickens into a creamy mayo-like texture. Add the coconut milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Blend again until smooth. Stir in the chopped dill, parsley, and black pepper. Refrigerate the dressing until you’re ready to use it.
3. Grill the Chicken and Corn: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Drizzle the corn with avocado oil and rub it in evenly. Place the corn and chicken skewers on the grill. Cook the corn for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes. Grill the chicken skewers for 3-4 minutes on each side, basting the grilled side with more BBQ sauce until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
4. Prepare the Salad: While the chicken and corn cook, combine the lettuce, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, and basil in a large bowl. Add your desired amount of ranch dressing and toss the salad to coat the greens.
5. Assemble the Salad: Remove the corn from the cob and add it to the salad. Add the diced avocado and gently toss everything together.
6. Serve: Place the grilled chicken skewers on top of the salad and enjoy the smoky, tangy flavors of this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad!

Tips & Tricks

• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Make sure to check the chicken for doneness by cutting into the thickest piece. It should be white all the way through with no pink.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: For precision, use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Adjust the Dressing: If you prefer a thinner dressing, you can add a little water or extra coconut milk to achieve the desired consistency.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover salad and chicken in separate containers in the fridge. The chicken will keep for up to 3 days, and the salad for 1-2 days.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can be paired with a variety of sides or toppings to elevate the meal:

• Grilled Vegetables: Try adding grilled asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and crunch.
• Side of Fries: Serve with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or regular fries for a more indulgent meal.
• Vegan Option: To make this salad vegan, swap the chicken for grilled tofu and use a dairy-free ranch dressing.

Seasonal and Health Benefits

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is perfect for summer, thanks to the vibrant, fresh ingredients like tomatoes, corn, and avocado. It’s also a nutrient-packed option, offering lean protein, healthy fats, and plenty of fiber from the vegetables and beans. Plus, the Whole30 Herby Ranch adds a creamy, tangy touch without any added sugars or dairy, making it a great choice for anyone following a clean-eating lifestyle.

Incorporating this salad into your weekly rotation ensures you get a hearty, satisfying meal without compromising on flavor or health.

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect combination of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors, making it a delightful option for a summer meal or a quick weeknight dinner. With juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a creamy Whole30 Herby Ranch dressing, this salad offers a satisfying balance of nutrition and taste. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a delicious, healthy meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Don’t hesitate to make it for your next gathering or family dinner—your taste buds will thank you!

FAQ

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