Grilled Chicken Skewers Salad

This Grilled Chicken Skewers Salad is a refreshing and satisfying dish featuring juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served over a bed of crisp, vibrant vegetables. Enhanced with a creamy, herb-infused ranch dressing, this salad offers a balance of smoky, tangy, and fresh flavors—perfect for a wholesome lunch or a light dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Balanced and Flavorful: The combination of smoky grilled chicken with fresh vegetables and creamy dressing creates a delicious harmony in every bite.

• Nutritious and Protein-Packed: High in protein and fiber, this salad fuels your body while keeping things light.

• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit dietary preferences or seasonal availability.

• Easy to Prepare: Simple marination and grilling techniques make this a great weeknight option.

• Visually Appealing: With colorful veggies and beautifully charred chicken, this dish looks as good as it tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Chicken Skewers:

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • Avocado oil

  • Kosher salt

  • BBQ sauce

  • Wooden skewers (pre-soaked)

• For the Salad:

  • Fresh corn on the cob

  • Romaine lettuce

  • Green onions

  • Grape tomatoes

  • Black beans (optional)

  • Fresh cilantro leaves

  • Fresh basil leaves

  • Avocado

• For the Herby-Ranch Dressing:

  • Light tasting oil (such as avocado oil)

  • Egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)

  • Unsweetened full-fat coconut milk

  • Lemon juice

  • Red wine vinegar

  • Kosher salt

  • Onion powder

  • Minced garlic

  • Fresh dill fronds

  • Fresh parsley

  • Freshly cracked black pepper

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   Pound the chicken to even thickness and cut into chunks. Toss with avocado oil, kosher salt, and BBQ sauce. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 8 hours in the fridge.

2. Prepare the Dressing:
   Blend the oil and egg with an immersion blender until emulsified. Add the coconut milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic. Blend until smooth. Stir in chopped herbs and pepper. Refrigerate.

3. Grill the Chicken and Corn:
   Preheat grill to medium-high. Oil grates. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers. Brush corn with oil. Grill corn for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Grill chicken for 3-4 minutes per side until cooked through, basting with more BBQ sauce as needed.

4. Assemble the Salad:
   Chop romaine, slice onions, halve tomatoes, and dice avocado. Cut grilled corn off the cob. Combine all in a large bowl with herbs and black beans (if using). Drizzle with dressing and toss gently.

5. Serve:
   Plate the salad and top with warm chicken skewers. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes (excluding marination)

• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Variations

• Different Protein: Try shrimp, tofu, or steak instead of chicken.

• Alternative Greens: Use arugula, baby spinach, or mixed greens for a different base.

• Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a chipotle dressing for extra heat.

• Grain Addition: Mix in quinoa or couscous for a heartier version.

• Dairy-Free Dressing: Use a vinaigrette if avoiding creamy dressings.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store salad and chicken separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep dressing in a jar with a tight lid.

• Reheating: Reheat chicken skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Do not reheat the salad itself.

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare all components ahead of time. Store them separately and assemble just before serving.

Do I have to soak wooden skewers before grilling?

Yes, soaking prevents them from burning on the grill. Soak them for at least 30 minutes.

Can I use metal skewers instead?

Absolutely. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t require soaking.

Is there a substitute for coconut milk in the dressing?

You can use regular dairy milk or almond milk, depending on your dietary needs.

Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, bake the skewered chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.

What other dressings go well with this salad?

Cilantro lime dressing, balsamic vinaigrette, or a chipotle ranch would all complement the flavors.

Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the BBQ sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

How can I make the salad spicier?

Add hot sauce to the dressing or top the salad with sliced chili peppers.

What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

You can use dried herbs, though fresh herbs provide a brighter flavor.

Can I grill the vegetables too?

Yes, grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or red onions add a wonderful depth to the salad.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Skewers Salad is a vibrant and nourishing dish that brings together the rich flavors of grilled meat with the crisp freshness of vegetables. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer day or as a wholesome weekday meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its taste, texture, and ease of preparation.