BBQ Chicken Skewers with Creamy Southwest Chopped Salad

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4

Why I Love This Recipe

This is one of those meals that checks all the boxes—easy, colorful, healthy, and full of flavor. The BBQ chicken skewers bring that summer-grill energy, and the creamy chopped salad is packed with texture and nutrients. Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.

Ingredients

BBQ Chicken Skewers

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (Try Kinder’s for bold flavor or Primal Kitchen for a no-sugar option)

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Southwest Chopped Salad

• 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped

• 1 cup grape tomatoes, halved

• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed

• 1 cup grilled corn (fresh or frozen)

• 1 avocado, diced

• 1/3 cup chopped cilantro

• Juice of 1 lime

• Salt and pepper to taste

Creamy Dressing (or Store-Bought Alternative)

• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (or dairy-free plain yogurt)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lime juice

• 1 tsp honey

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 tbsp water to thin

Instructions

1. Grill the Chicken: Preheat grill or grill pan over medium heat. Toss chicken with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Thread onto soaked skewers. Grill for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally, brushing BBQ sauce over the skewers during the last few minutes until fully cooked and slightly charred.

2. Make the Salad: In a large bowl, combine romaine, tomatoes, black beans, corn, avocado, and cilantro.

3. Whisk the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk all dressing ingredients until creamy. Add water to thin if needed. Toss with the salad just before serving.

4. Assemble: Plate salad, add BBQ chicken skewers, and garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.

Notes

• Gluten-Free: Use a certified gluten-free BBQ sauce.

• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt or creamy avocado dressing.

• Store-Bought Dressing Option: Skip the homemade dressing and grab Primal Kitchen, Tessemae’s, or Bolthouse Farms for a quick and clean swap.

• Kid-Friendly: Serve deconstructed—chicken bites, corn, black beans, and avocado are great for little ones.

• Meal Prep Tip: Salad ingredients and dressing can be made up to 1 day in advance. Grill chicken fresh for best flavor.