BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is the perfect blend of smoky, savory flavors with a fresh crunch that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or just looking for a light and satisfying meal, this salad delivers on all fronts. The combination of grilled chicken skewers and a rich, creamy avocado dressing brightens any plate. It’s colorful, nutritious, and ready in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.
Why Make This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
If you’re craving something that feels indulgent yet healthy, this salad ticks all the boxes. The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only visually appealing with its vibrant colors, but it’s also packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats. The tasty grilled chicken delivers smoky flavors that complement the fresh greens, while the creamy avocado dressing adds a silky texture. It’s gluten-free and can easily be tailored to suit various dietary needs, making it a versatile go-to for everyone at your table.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
Making this salad is a breeze. It all comes together in just a few simple steps, which means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. Start by marinating the chicken and grilling it on skewers until it’s perfectly charred. Meanwhile, whip up the luscious avocado dressing in a blender for a quick and effortless prep. Toss everything together with your favorite greens, and you have a delightful meal that’s ready to serve!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus more for brushing)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for chicken)
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 1 large avocado (pitted)
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice (fresh)
- 1 tbsp water (or more to thin)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder (for dressing)
- Salt (to taste for dressing)
- 4 cups mixed greens
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen, thawed)
- 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
- 1/4 cup red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup cotija cheese (crumbled, optional)
Directions:
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a medium bowl, combine the chicken cubes with 1/4 cup BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
- Thread 4-5 pieces of chicken onto each skewer, leaving about 1/4 inch between cubes.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F) and slightly charred. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
- While the chicken is grilling, prepare the dressing. In a blender or food processor, combine the avocado, Greek yogurt, cilantro, lime juice, water, garlic powder, and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add more water if needed to reach your desired consistency (it should coat the back of a spoon but drip off slowly).
- In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, corn, black beans, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
- Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for 2 minutes, then remove it from the skewers and add it to the salad.
- Drizzle the creamy avocado dressing over the salad and toss to combine. Top with crumbled cotija cheese, if using. Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving (approximately):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 10g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 30g
(Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can shine as a main dish or serve as a side to your favorite grilled foods. Pair it with cornbread or tortilla chips for a hearty meal, or set it on a potluck table as a refreshing side dish. It’s great for meal prep too, allowing you to have delicious lunches ready for the week.
How to Store BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
To store any leftovers, place the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Enjoy it within 1-2 days for the best flavor. Keep the dressing separate if possible to prevent the greens from wilting. The creamy avocado dressing can last for about 3 days in the fridge, so double the recipe for future salads!
Expert Tips for Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the BBQ sauce a few hours before grilling.
- Consider using a variety of colorful bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms on the skewers for added nutrients and flavor.
- If you prefer a vegan option, swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the grill; this helps achieve that beautiful char and smokiness.
Delicious Variations
- Tropical Twist: Add pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet and smoky flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in some jalapeños or use a spicy BBQ sauce.
- Grain Bowl: Serve the salad over cooked quinoa or brown rice for an even heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the chicken ahead and marinate it a few hours in advance. Just grill it fresh before serving for the best flavor. Keep the salad and dressing separate until you’re ready to eat.
2. How can I adjust the dressing for a lower calorie option?
You can use non-fat Greek yogurt and reduce the amount of avocado or substitute with a low-calorie dressing option. You could also add more herbs to enhance the flavor without extra calories.
3. What type of BBQ sauce works best with this recipe?
A smoky or honey BBQ sauce complements the chicken beautifully. However, feel free to use any sauce you enjoy. Homemade BBQ sauce will add a personal touch!
Conclusion
The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with Creamy Avocado Dressing is a delightful dish that brings together flavors, textures, and colors in one bowl. It’s not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try, and feel free to share your results! Whip it up for your next gathering and watch it disappear—your friends and family will thank you!