Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

A fresh and hearty Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy is the perfect dish for summer dinners or backyard gatherings. This vibrant salad features grilled BBQ chicken skewers, sweet corn, creamy avocado, and a tangy homemade herby ranch dressing. Its delightful flavors and colorful presentation make it an ideal choice for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of BBQ chicken, fresh vegetables, and herby ranch dressing creates a taste sensation.
• Perfect for Summer: This salad is light yet filling, making it ideal for warm-weather meals.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip this up in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the salad by adding your favorite veggies or swapping out the chicken for another protein.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and fresh produce, this salad is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, you’ll need some essential tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Immersion blender
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Perfect for grilling chicken evenly, ensuring deliciously charred edges.
• Immersion blender: Ideal for quickly blending the ranch dressing to a smooth consistency.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides that smoky flavor we love in grilled dishes while making it easy to cook multiple items at once.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups BBQ sauce (e.g., Primal Kitchen brand)
• 8 [6-inch] wooden skewers, pre-soaked

For the Whole30 Herby Ranch:

• 1 cup light-tasting oil (avocado or “light” olive oil; or sub 1 cup store-bought mayo)
• 1 egg (omit if using mayo)
• ½ cup unsweetened full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

For the Salad:

• 4 ears corn (omit for Whole30)
• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 8 cups romaine lettuce, thinly sliced (or 2 small heads)
• 6 green onions, thinly sliced (green parts only)
• 2 cups grape tomatoes, quartered (or 16 ounces)
• 1 [15-ounce] can black beans, drained and rinsed (omit for Whole30)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 avocado, diced

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Skewers

1. Pound chicken to ½-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch cubes.
2. In a bowl, toss chicken with avocado oil, kosher salt, and 1 cup of BBQ sauce.
3. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate for 4–8 hours.

Step 2: Make the Herby Ranch Dressing

1. Add oil to a jar. Crack in the egg and blend with an immersion blender until mayo forms.
2. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, kosher salt, onion powder, and minced garlic. Blend again until smooth.
3. Stir in finely chopped dill, parsley, and black pepper. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Grill the Corn

1. Rub corn with avocado oil.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high (350–400°F). Oil grates before grilling.
3. Grill corn for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2 minutes.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken Skewers

1. Grill chicken skewers for about 3–4 minutes per side.
2. Baste with remaining BBQ sauce after flipping.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce, green onions, grape tomatoes, black beans (if using), cilantro leaves, and basil.
2. Toss with desired amount of herby ranch dressing.
3. Add grilled corn kernels and diced avocado; gently toss again.
4. Serve immediately with grilled chicken skewers on top.

Enjoy your delicious Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy!

How to Serve Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

Serving Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a delightful experience. This fresh and hearty salad is perfect for any summer gathering or casual dinner. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dish.

Family-Style Serving

• Place the salad in a large bowl and arrange the grilled chicken skewers on top. This allows everyone to serve themselves and enjoy the beautiful presentation.

Individual Bowls

• For a more personal touch, serve the salad in individual bowls. Each guest can customize their salad with the amount of herby ranch dressing they prefer.

Picnic Presentation

• Pack the salad into portable containers for a picnic. Layer the ingredients carefully, keeping the dressing separate until ready to eat to maintain freshness.

Buffet Style

• Set up a buffet with the components of the salad laid out separately. Guests can build their own bowls, allowing them to select their favorite ingredients.

How to Perfect Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

To make your Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad even better, here are some tips for perfection.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for several hours enhances its flavor dramatically.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs elevate taste; consider using basil, cilantro, or dill from your garden for added freshness.
• Grill Corn Directly: Grilling corn adds a smoky flavor that complements the BBQ chicken perfectly.
• Chill Ingredients: Keep your salad ingredients chilled before assembly for a refreshing bite on hot days.
• Customize Dressings: Feel free to experiment with different dressings beyond herby ranch to find your favorite flavor combination.
• Add Crunch: Toss in some tortilla strips or nuts for an extra crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft avocado and chicken.

Best Side Dishes for Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

Pairing side dishes with your Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad can elevate your meal further. Here are some excellent options that complement this vibrant salad.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic side that adds warmth and richness; great for soaking up any leftover dressing.
2. Watermelon Feta Salad
   This refreshing mix balances savory flavors with sweet watermelon and salty feta cheese.
3. Grilled Vegetables
   Seasonal vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers grilled alongside chicken skewers enhance flavors and provide variety.
4. Coleslaw
   Creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw offers crunch and acidity that pairs well with BBQ chicken.
5. Potato Wedges
   Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a satisfying side that complements any summer meal.
6. Fruit Salad
   A medley of seasonal fruits adds sweetness and freshness, making it a light and tasty accompaniment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Over-marinating the chicken: While marinating adds flavor, leaving the chicken for too long can lead to a mushy texture. Aim for 20 minutes to 8 hours for the best results.
• Skipping the soaking of skewers: If you forget to soak wooden skewers, they can catch fire on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using.
• Not preheating the grill: A cold grill will not sear your chicken properly. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat for juicy and perfectly grilled skewers.
• Using too much dressing: It’s easy to overdo it with the herby ranch dressing. Start with a small amount and add more if needed, ensuring the salad remains light and fresh.
• Neglecting to cut veggies evenly: For an aesthetically pleasing salad, cut your vegetables uniformly. This not only looks better but also ensures even distribution of flavors in every bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

• It is not recommended to freeze this salad as ingredients like lettuce and avocado do not freeze well.
• If needed, you can freeze cooked chicken skewers separately for up to 2 months.

Reheating Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short intervals of 30 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overcook.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and reheat chicken skewers for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I customize my Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad?

Absolutely! You can add different veggies, such as bell peppers or cucumbers, or swap out proteins like shrimp or tofu based on your preference.

How can I make this salad vegan?

To make a vegan version of Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy, replace chicken with grilled tofu and use a vegan ranch dressing.

What sides pair well with this salad?

This salad pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or even some crusty bread for a complete meal experience.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! The Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure your BBQ sauce is gluten-free as well.

Final Thoughts

The Zesty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: The Ultimate Summer Bowl of Joy is not just delicious; it’s versatile too! With options for customization, you can easily tailor it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or enjoying a family dinner, this salad is sure to impress everyone at the table. Try it today and savor each bite!