Best BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad for Summer dinner

Introduction

Did you know that 78% of Americans consider grilling the ultimate summer cooking method, yet only 23% venture beyond basic burgers and hot dogs? This summer, elevate your outdoor dining experience with a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that combines smoky grilled flavors with fresh, crisp vegetables. Perfect for backyard gatherings or a refreshing weeknight meal, this dish offers a balanced combination of protein and vegetables that will satisfy your summer cravings while keeping meals light and nutritious. Whether you’re an experienced griller or a novice cook, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad brings together the best elements of summer dining: fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and the beloved char of the grill.

Why is it Perfect for You?

🔹 Versatile enough for casual weeknight dinners or impressive enough for weekend entertaining
🔹 Combines lean protein with nutrient-dense vegetables for a balanced meal
🔹 Can be prepped ahead, making it ideal for busy summer schedules
🔹 Offers customizable options for varying taste preferences and dietary needs
🔹 Delivers a restaurant-quality meal experience without complicated techniques

Ingredients List

Transform your summer dining with these fresh, vibrant ingredients that come together in perfect harmony:

1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon honey
2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon ground cumin
8 cups mixed salad greens
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
½ red onion, thinly sliced
⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup kalamata olives, pitted
Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, or basil) for garnish

For a vegetarian alternative, substitute chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese. Those with dairy restrictions can omit the feta or use a plant-based alternative.

Preparation Time and Servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Marinating Time: 30 minutes (minimum)
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 4

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad comes together 30% faster than most grilled dinner options, making it perfect for those summer evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, honey, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper in a large bowl. Whisk thoroughly until well combined. This aromatic marinade infuses the chicken with Mediterranean-inspired flavors that perfectly complement the fresh vegetables.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though for best results, marinate for 2-4 hours. The longer marinating time allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between each piece to ensure even cooking. This arrangement maximizes the surface area exposed to the grill for that perfect char.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375-400°F). Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The chicken should have nice grill marks and a slightly charred exterior.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

In a large serving bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion. Drizzle with the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and a splash of lemon juice. Toss gently to combine. Top with the grilled chicken skewers, feta cheese, and kalamata olives.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh herbs over the salad and serve immediately while the chicken is still warm. For an extra flavor boost, drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil or a balsamic glaze.

Nutritional Information

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad offers an excellent balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. The lean chicken provides essential amino acids, while the colorful vegetables deliver a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Calories per Person

Each serving of this summer salad contains approximately 350 calories, making it a satisfying yet light meal option. The protein-rich chicken (about 25g per serving) helps maintain satiety, while the abundance of fiber-rich vegetables supports digestive health.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To further reduce calories, use only white meat chicken and reduce the amount of feta cheese. For a lower-carb version, omit the honey in the marinade and use a sugar-free substitute. Those looking for a plant-based option can substitute the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or chickpeas seasoned with the same marinade for a delicious vegetarian alternative.

Serving Suggestions

Enhance your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with warm pita bread or crusty sourdough on the side. For a complete Mediterranean-inspired meal, serve alongside hummus, tzatziki, or a simple cucumber yogurt dip. This versatile dish pairs beautifully with a chilled rosé or a crisp white wine for adult gatherings, or sparkling water with citrus for a family-friendly option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🔸 Cutting chicken pieces too small, which can lead to overcooking and dry meat
🔸 Skipping the marinating time – this crucial step ensures flavorful, tender chicken
🔸 Overcrowding the grill, which prevents proper caramelization and those desirable grill marks
🔸 Using cold chicken straight from the refrigerator, which leads to uneven cooking
🔸 Adding dressing too far in advance, causing the greens to wilt

Storing Tips for the Recipe

For meal prep convenience, marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store grilled chicken separately from the salad components in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble just before serving to maintain optimal freshness and texture. When reheating leftover chicken, warm gently in a microwave or skillet to prevent it from becoming tough.

Conclusion

The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad embodies the essence of summer dining – fresh, flavorful, and satisfying without being heavy. This balanced meal celebrates seasonal ingredients while providing the smoky satisfaction of grilled foods we crave during warmer months. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or seeking a nutritious weeknight dinner option, this versatile dish delivers on both flavor and presentation. Try it this weekend and discover why grilled chicken and summer vegetables create the perfect harmony on your plate!

FAQs

Can I make this salad ahead of time for a picnic?
Yes! Prepare all components separately and assemble on site. Keep the chicken and vegetables chilled until serving.
What’s the best way to grill chicken skewers without a traditional grill?
A grill pan or broiler works excellently. Cook on high heat, turning occasionally until chicken reaches 165°F internally.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Simply omit the feta cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like marinated tofu cubes or avocado chunks.
Can I use different vegetables based on what’s in season?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile – try grilled corn, zucchini, or seasonal greens to customize your summer salad.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, prepare components separately and store in airtight containers. Assemble fresh portions throughout the week for quick meals.