The Defined Dish BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad You’ll Love

Looking for a light yet flavorful summer dish? This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad delivers big on taste and freshness. Inspired by The Defined Dish’s wholesome style, this recipe combines tender, smoky grilled chicken skewers with crisp greens, juicy tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy homemade dressing. It’s the perfect blend of protein-packed comfort and veggie-filled crunch.

Great for weeknight dinners, cookouts, or meal prep, this salad is incredibly versatile and easy to make. There’s no wine, beer, or bacon here — just clean, nourishing ingredients you can feel good about. It’s a family-friendly option that keeps everyone satisfied without feeling heavy. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, this salad turns a basic chicken skewer into a vibrant, complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is easy and can be prepped ahead for busy days. Follow these steps to ensure juicy skewers and crisp, flavorful salad in every bite.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper

Add 1½ lbs chicken pieces, mix to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine:

• 6 cups greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 sliced cucumber
• ½ red onion
• 1 avocado
• Optional: ½ cup feta

Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk together in a small bowl:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt & pepper

Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers. Grill on medium-high for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Place salad mix on a platter or individual bowls, top with chicken skewers, and drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.

There are plenty of reasons to love this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad — it’s healthy, hearty, and packed with flavor. The grilled chicken is juicy and smoky, the veggies are crisp and refreshing, and the quick tangy dressing ties everything together beautifully.

It’s more than just a salad — it’s a full, satisfying meal. Prep the skewers and veggies in advance, then grill and assemble in minutes. The recipe is highly customizable — add avocado, swap in feta, or toss in some grilled corn. It’s perfect for anyone avoiding pork or alcohol-based ingredients, and it appeals to both kids and adults.

Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, picnic dish, or meal prep option, this salad fits the bill. Fresh, simple, and delicious — it’s everything you want in a summer recipe.

What You’ll Need

To bring this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad to life, you’ll need a handful of simple, clean ingredients — most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. The focus here is on fresh produce, lean protein, and a flavorful, no-fuss marinade.

For the Chicken & Marinade:

• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 mins) or metal skewers

For the Salad Base:

• 6 cups chopped romaine or mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cucumber, sliced
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced or cubed
• Optional: ½ cup crumbled feta or dairy-free alternative

For the Dressing:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt & pepper to taste

All ingredients are clean, pork-free, and alcohol-free — ideal for health-conscious families or anyone avoiding processed condiments.

How to Make How to Make (with Full Measurements)

Making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is easy and can be prepped ahead for busy days. Follow these steps to ensure juicy skewers and crisp, flavorful salad in every bite.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper

Add 1½ lbs chicken pieces, mix to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine:

• 6 cups greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 sliced cucumber
• ½ red onion
• 1 avocado
• Optional: ½ cup feta

Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk together in a small bowl:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt & pepper

Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers. Grill on medium-high for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Place salad mix on a platter or individual bowls, top with chicken skewers, and drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.

Making this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is easy and can be prepped ahead for busy days. Follow these steps to ensure juicy skewers and crisp, flavorful salad in every bite.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1½ tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp oregano
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• Salt & pepper

Add 1½ lbs chicken pieces, mix to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Prepare the Salad Base
In a large bowl, combine:

• 6 cups greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 sliced cucumber
• ½ red onion
• 1 avocado
• Optional: ½ cup feta

Step 3: Make the Dressing
Whisk together in a small bowl:

• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp Dijon
• 1 tsp honey
• Salt & pepper

Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers. Grill on medium-high for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and lightly charred.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad
Place salad mix on a platter or individual bowls, top with chicken skewers, and drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.

You Must Know

Before firing up the grill, here are some key tips to make this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad a guaranteed success:

• Marinate for Flavor: Let the chicken soak for at least 30 minutes — up to 8 hours is best for deep flavor. Don’t go beyond that to avoid mushy texture.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking them in water for 30 minutes. Or use metal ones for convenience.
• Avoid Soggy Salad: Toss in the dressing just before serving to keep greens crisp and fresh.
• Bring Chicken to Room Temp: Let it sit out for 10–15 minutes before grilling so it cooks evenly.
• Use a Thermometer: Ensure chicken reaches 165°F inside for food safety and juicy results.
• No Alcohol Needed: This recipe skips wine, beer, or bourbon — and still delivers bold BBQ flavor using clean, family-friendly ingredients.

Follow these quick tips and you’ll get tender, flavorful chicken with fresh, crisp salad every time.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Grilling the chicken skewers is where the flavor magic happens — and it’s simpler than you think.

• Preheat the Grill: Get it hot (medium-high heat) before placing your skewers down. This locks in flavor fast.
• Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill or pan to prevent sticking and promote even browning.
• Don’t Crowd Skewers: Leave a bit of space between pieces so they cook evenly on all sides.
• Turn Often: Rotate every few minutes for an even char. Grill until golden with an internal temp of 165°F.
• Let Rest: Give the chicken 5 minutes off the grill to keep it juicy.
• Indoor Option: No outdoor grill? A cast-iron grill pan on the stovetop works great, too.

With these basics, you’ll nail juicy BBQ skewers every time — no fancy gear needed.

Add Your Touch BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

One of the best things about this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or exploring new flavors, this recipe welcomes creativity.

• Switch Up the Protein: Not feeling chicken? Try shrimp, turkey breast, or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian twist.
• Add More Veggies: Grilled corn, roasted red peppers, shredded carrots, or radishes can add color and crunch.
• Go Dairy-Free: Skip the feta or use a plant-based version if you’re avoiding dairy.
• Boost the Flavor: Add fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or mint for brightness. A squeeze of lime or lemon can make the dish pop even more.
• Make It a Meal Bowl: Serve over quinoa, couscous, or brown rice for a more filling option.
• Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the dressing if you like heat.

Whether you’re adjusting for dietary needs or just changing things up, this salad is the perfect canvas for your personal touch.

Storing & Reheating

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is meal-prep friendly and stores well with a few smart tips:

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• Store Separately: Keep the grilled chicken, chopped veggies, and dressing in separate containers. Combine only when ready to eat to keep textures fresh.
• Fridge Life: The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Veggies last about 2–3 days when stored dry and undressed.
• Reheating Chicken: Warm skewers in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep them moist.
• Serving Cold?: This salad is just as good served cold. Great for grab-and-go lunches or summer picnics.

Planning ahead? This dish is ideal for make-ahead dinners or weekly meal prep — simple, tasty, and ready when you are.

Chef’s Helpful Tips for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

These expert tips will take your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad from good to unforgettable:

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• Cut Even Pieces: Dice your chicken into uniform chunks for even grilling. This avoids undercooked centers or dry edges.
• Double the Marinade: Want extra flavor? Make a second batch of the marinade (without raw chicken) to drizzle over the finished skewers or salad.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: It’s the easiest way to avoid dry chicken — aim for 165°F for perfect doneness.
• Prep Ahead: Chop all veggies and mix the dressing a day in advance to save time. Store them separately for max freshness.
• Upgrade the Dressing: Mix in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or mashed avocado to make the dressing creamy — without needing mayo or dairy-heavy sauces.
• Grill in Batches: If cooking for a crowd, grill skewers in small batches so the grill stays hot and chicken cooks evenly.

With these tips, your salad will look and taste like it came from a restaurant — fresh, bold, and perfectly balanced.

FAQ for BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work great on the grill. Just trim any excess fat and follow the same cooking time.

What can I use instead of skewers?
If you’re short on skewers, grill whole chicken pieces and slice them after cooking. Or use a grill basket for easy flipping.

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Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Definitely. Bake the marinated chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Then slice and serve over the salad.

How long can I marinate the chicken?
Anywhere from 30 minutes up to 8 hours. Avoid overnight marinating, as the texture can turn mushy from the acids.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! Prep all the components in advance but store them separately. Assemble and dress the salad just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is! Just double-check your mustard and condiments to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the ultimate go-to recipe for anyone craving a fresh, flavorful, and satisfying meal without the fuss. Combining juicy grilled chicken with crisp veggies and a tangy homemade dressing, it’s a perfect balance of taste and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for family, prepping meals for the week, or entertaining friends, this dish hits all the right notes—healthy, easy, and customizable to your liking.

Best of all, it’s free from pork, alcohol, and processed ingredients, making it a clean and wholesome option you can feel good about serving. So fire up your grill, grab those skewers, and enjoy this vibrant, colorful salad that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

Give it a try, share your twists and tips, and don’t forget to come back for more delicious recipes inspired by clean, simple eating. Happy grilling!