### BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Recipe: A Delicious and Healthy Meal
When summer rolls around, there's nothing better than firing up the grill and enjoying a fresh, flavorful meal. This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the perfect dish for those who crave a combination of smoky, juicy chicken and crisp, vibrant vegetables. It's easy to make, healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or just want a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
#### Ingredients:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Salad:
- 4 cups mixed greens (romaine, spinach, arugula, etc.)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup feta cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
For the Dressing:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Marinate the Chicken**
In a bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
**Step 2: Prepare the Skewers**
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
**Step 3: Grill the Chicken**
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char.
**Step 4: Assemble the Salad**
In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, avocado, and feta cheese. Drizzle with the prepared dressing and toss to coat.
**Step 5: Serve**
Arrange the salad on a platter or individual plates. Top with the grilled chicken skewers and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve immediately and enjoy the blend of smoky BBQ chicken and crisp, refreshing salad.
#### Tips for the Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad:
1. **Make Ahead* You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance to save time.
2. **Vegetable Variations* Feel free to mix up the vegetables in the salad to suit your taste. Bell peppers, radishes, and corn would all be great additions.
3. **Dressing* If you prefer a creamier dressing, a ranch or avocado lime dressing would also pair nicely with this salad.
This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a great way to enjoy the best of summer grilling while keeping your meal light and nutritious. It's perfect for outdoor gatherings, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week.
Enjoy the delicious flavors and simplicity of this recipe, and don't forget to share your creations with the hashtag #bbqchickensalad!
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