**BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad: A Flavorful and Healthy Dinner Recipe**

Grilling season is the perfect time to get creative with your meals, and there's no better way to combine healthy and hearty flavors than with a *BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad*. This dish is a delightful fusion of juicy, smoky BBQ chicken skewers and fresh, crisp salad ingredients, making it the ultimate healthy dinner that doesn't compromise on flavor. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is a winner!

### Why You’ll Love This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This salad is not your typical leafy green mix. The star of the show is the BBQ chicken skewers, which add a satisfying grilled flavor and protein boost to the dish. Combined with a variety of fresh vegetables, this salad offers a well-rounded meal that’s perfect for those seeking something light yet filling. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

### Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious and healthy BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, gather the following ingredients:

#### For the BBQ Chicken Skewers:
- **Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs**: Chicken thighs offer more juiciness, while breasts are a leaner option.
- **Olive oil**: To keep the chicken moist and flavorful on the grill.
- **BBQ sauce**: Choose your favorite sauce, or make a homemade version for a more personalized taste.
- **Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika**: For that extra layer of smoky flavor.
- **Salt and pepper**: Basic seasoning to enhance all the ingredients.

#### For the Salad:
- **Mixed greens**: A blend of romaine, arugula, or spinach works beautifully.
- **Cherry tomatoes**: Adds a burst of sweetness and color.
- **Cucumber slices**: For crunch and hydration.
- **Red onion**: Thinly sliced for a mild, tangy bite.
- **Avocado**: Creamy and rich, perfect for balancing the smoky chicken.
- **Feta or goat cheese**: Adds a salty, tangy touch.
- **Grilled corn (optional)**: For a bit of sweetness and extra texture.

#### For the Dressing:
- **Olive oil**: A light, healthy base.
- **Lemon juice**: Brightens up the flavors.
- **Dijon mustard**: Adds a tangy kick.
- **Honey**: Balances the acidity with a touch of sweetness.
- **Salt and pepper**: To taste.

### Step-by-Step Recipe

#### 1. **Prepare the Chicken Skewers**
Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized chunks. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

#### 2. **Grill the Chicken**
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling to caramelize the sauce and enhance the flavor. Remove the skewers from the grill when the chicken is fully cooked and juicy.

#### 3. **Assemble the Salad**
While the chicken is grilling, prepare your salad. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, red onion, and avocado. If using grilled corn, slice the kernels off the cob and add them to the salad for extra flavor.

#### 4. **Make the Dressing**
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, salt, and pepper until well combined. Drizzle the dressing over the salad and toss everything gently to coat the ingredients evenly.

#### 5. **Serve**
Place the BBQ chicken skewers on top of the salad or serve them alongside. Garnish with crumbled feta or goat cheese, and you’ve got yourself a stunning, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

### Why This Salad Stands Out

The magic of this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad lies in its versatility. The grilled chicken skewers add a smoky, savory depth that pairs perfectly with the crisp, refreshing salad components. The dressing ties it all together with a bright, tangy flavor that complements both the grilled chicken and fresh veggies.

This dish is also incredibly flexible—you can swap out veggies based on what you have on hand or experiment with different types of cheese and dressings to suit your preferences. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a healthy meal without feeling like you’re missing out on bold, satisfying flavors.

### Health Benefits of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

This salad is packed with nutrients and offers a range of health benefits:
- **Lean protein** from the grilled chicken supports muscle growth and keeps you full longer.
- **Healthy fats** from avocado and olive oil promote heart health.
- **Vitamins and minerals** from fresh vegetables support overall well-being.
- **Low-carb and high-fiber** ingredients make this salad a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

### Customization Tips

- **Make it vegetarian**: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or halloumi cheese.
- **Spice it up**: Add a kick by incorporating jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes.
- **Switch up the dressing**: Try a creamy ranch or balsamic vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.

### Conclusion

This *BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad* is not only a feast for the eyes but also a nutritious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking inside on a stovetop grill pan, this recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please. The combination of smoky BBQ chicken and fresh, vibrant salad ingredients makes it a meal that feels indulgent while keeping things light and healthy.