BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad – The Best Grilled Summer Salad Recipe (2025)

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is the ultimate summer meal—light, vibrant, smoky, and downright irresistible. Inspired by the popular California Pizza Kitchen BBQ Chicken Salad, this homemade version elevates things with juicy grilled chicken skewers, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, herby Whole30-friendly ranch dressing that you’ll want to drizzle on everything. It’s more than just a salad—it’s a satisfying meal in a bowl that captures everything we love about summer grilling.

If you’re searching for something that’s healthy, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad checks every box. Whether you’re meal prepping, hosting a backyard BBQ, or just craving a nutritious dinner, this recipe blends bold BBQ flavors with garden-fresh ingredients for a dish that delivers on taste and texture.

The Magic Behind BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Why BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Is a Summer Favorite

Nothing says summer like food on a stick—and when that food is smoky, charred chicken coated in BBQ sauce, you’re in for a treat. BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad brings the perfect balance of flavor and freshness to sunny dinners, backyard gatherings, and easygoing weekend meals. What makes it a winner is the balance it brings: fresh greens, savory grilled protein, sweet and tangy dressing, and vibrant toppings that deliver on both texture and flavor.

Unlike traditional salads, this one feels like a full meal. The protein-packed skewers provide a hearty bite, while fresh corn, avocado, tomatoes, and herbs add color and freshness. Whether served warm or chilled, this salad has something for everyone.

Inspiration from California Pizza Kitchen: A Flavorful Legacy

The original idea for this salad comes straight from California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), a place known for turning everyday dishes into crave-worthy creations. CPK’s BBQ Chicken Salad became a favorite for its bold combo of smoky flavor, sweet tang, and creamy goodness. Typically, it’s a hearty mix of grilled BBQ chicken breast, creamy ranch, black beans, juicy corn, crisp tortilla strips, and vibrant romaine.

This homemade take honors those flavors but steps it up with a few clean-eating swaps—like a Whole30-approved herby ranch and fresh off-the-grill chicken skewers instead of just diced chicken. The end result is a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s not only tasty but also customizable to suit dietary preferences.

Up next: Uncover the fresh ingredients that give this salad its wow factor.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

---

• Author: Leo
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

This BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is a smoky, protein-packed summer dish loaded with grilled chicken, fresh avocado, crisp romaine, and a creamy herby ranch. Perfect for gluten-free and low-calorie diets, it’s a healthy twist on the classic barbecue plate that bursts with flavor in every bite.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 2 cups BBQ sauce
• 8 wooden skewers (pre-soaked)
• 1 cup avocado oil (for herby ranch)
• 1 egg (omit if using store-bought mayo)
• ½ cup full-fat unsweetened coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh dill
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
• 4 ears corn, husked (omit for Whole30)
• 8 cups thinly sliced romaine lettuce
• 6 green onions, green parts only, thinly sliced
• 2 cups quartered grape tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed (omit for Whole30)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
• 1 avocado, diced

---

Instructions

1. Pound chicken breasts to ½-inch thickness and cut into 2-inch cubes
2. Place chicken in a bowl with avocado oil, salt, and 1 cup BBQ sauce and mix until well coated
3. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate up to 8 hours
4. In a wide-mouth jar, add avocado oil and egg and blend using an immersion blender to create a thick mayo
5. Add coconut milk, lemon juice, vinegar, salt, onion powder, and garlic and blend again
6. Stir in dill, parsley, and black pepper, then refrigerate dressing
7. Rub corn with avocado oil and set aside
8. Heat grill to 375°F and oil the grates to prevent sticking
9. Grill corn for 10–12 minutes, rotating every 2 minutes until tender
10. Grill chicken skewers 3–4 minutes per side, basting with remaining BBQ sauce after flipping
    Let corn and skewers cool slightly
11. In a large bowl, combine romaine, green onions, tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, and basil
12. Add desired amount of dressing and toss until greens are coated
13. Cut corn off the cob and add with diced avocado to the salad
14. Top with grilled BBQ chicken skewers and serve immediately

Notes

1. You can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs for a juicier BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad
2. Make the herby ranch up to 3 days ahead to save prep time
3. For a vegetarian option, use grilled tofu instead of chicken
4. If you’re not Whole30, add tortilla strips or shredded cheese for added crunch and flavor

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Healthy Recipes
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 425 Kcal
• Sugar: 7g
• Sodium: 610mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 21g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 33g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, grilled chicken salad, Whole30 BBQ salad, healthy summer salad, gluten free BBQ salad, chicken salad with ranch, grilled BBQ chicken recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Ultimate Skewered Chicken Salad

Breakdown of Key Salad Components: Greens, Grains & Garnishes

Creating the perfect BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad starts with selecting fresh, vibrant ingredients that layer well and complement the smoky grilled chicken. Here’s what you’ll need for the salad base:

• Romaine lettuce: Crisp and sturdy, romaine holds up well under creamy dressings and hot skewers.
• Corn (grilled): Adds a natural sweetness and charred flavor. If you’re Whole30, feel free to omit.
• Black beans: Offer a soft, hearty texture and earthy flavor (optional for Whole30).
• Grape tomatoes: Juicy and bright, these bring a pop of acidity.
• Green onions: For that subtle, fresh oniony bite.
• Cilantro and basil: Add brightness and herbal depth.
• Avocado: Creamy and rich, this rounds out the salad beautifully.

This isn’t your average lettuce bowl—it’s a full meal layered with textures and temperatures that make each bite satisfying.

BBQ Chicken Skewers: Ingredients & Sauce Tips

The star of the show is, of course, the BBQ chicken. Here’s what you’ll need:

BBQ Tip: Reserve extra BBQ sauce for basting mid-grill. This layering of flavors during cooking intensifies the taste and gives that beautiful caramelized finish.

Using skewers not only makes grilling easier but also boosts presentation. Skewered chicken is easier to cook evenly and adds a fun twist to traditional salad toppings.

How to Marinate Chicken for BBQ Skewers Like a Pro

Choosing the Best Chicken Cut for Skewers

When prepping a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, the cut of chicken can make or break your dish. For the best texture and flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are your top pick. They’re lean, quick-cooking, and hold marinades exceptionally well—perfect for locking in that smoky BBQ goodness.

Why chicken breasts work:

• Lean and tender
• Even cooking for salad-ready bites
• Great at soaking up BBQ marinade flavors

To make them grill-ready, pound the chicken breasts to a uniform ½-inch thickness. Then cube into 2-inch pieces. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and stays juicy—especially important when serving in a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad where texture is key.

Looking for something a bit juicier? Chicken thighs offer a richer, fattier option that also grills beautifully. Either cut works for this salad, depending on your flavor preference and dietary needs.

Secrets to a Juicy, Flavorful Marinade

To take your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad to the next level, mastering a good marinade is essential. It’s the secret to transforming plain chicken into a smoky, savory highlight that ties your entire salad together.

Marinade Base:

• 3 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (Primal Kitchen recommended)

Pro Marinating Tips:

• Toss the cubed chicken into the marinade in a large bowl and mix well.
• Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. Want a deeper flavor? Seal it up and chill in the fridge for 4 to 8 hours.
• Always use a glass or plastic bowl to avoid reacting with acidic BBQ ingredients.

When the chicken is ready, thread it onto wooden skewers (pre-soaked, of course). Space out each piece just a bit so the heat can flow evenly across the grill. This prevents steaming and ensures every chunk of chicken gets those perfect grill marks that make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad stand out.

With your skewers marinated and ready, it’s time to fire up the grill and bring your salad to life with bold, charred flavor.

Grilling Techniques for Tender BBQ Chicken Skewers

Preparing the Grill: Tips to Avoid Dry Chicken

Grilling chicken for a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad isn’t just about tossing meat over fire. It’s an art of timing, heat control, and a few clever tricks that lock in moisture while achieving that perfect smoky char.

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat (350–400°F). As the grill heats up, don’t skip prepping the grates—it makes all the difference.
Here’s how:

• Fold a paper towel into a square
• Dip it lightly in avocado oil
• Grab your tongs and glide it over the hot grill grates for an even coat

This simple step helps prevent sticking without causing flare-ups. Skipping it could result in torn chicken and lost flavor—definitely not what we want for our BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad centerpiece.

Once your grill is oiled and ready, lay down the skewers, leaving enough space between them to ensure even cooking. Always grill with the lid closed to trap heat and infuse the meat with smoky goodness.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grilling Chicken Skewers Perfectly

The secret to juicy grilled chicken is all about balance: enough heat to sear, enough time to cook through, and just the right amount of basting.

Here’s your foolproof process:

1. Grill the first side for 3–4 minutes, or until defined grill marks appear.
2. Flip the skewers, then baste the cooked side generously with reserved BBQ sauce.
3. Flip and grill the other side for 3–4 minutes, brushing on more sauce for extra flavor
4. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature—it should hit 165°F for food safety.

Avoid pressing down on the skewers or over-flipping them. Let the grill do its job, and trust the timing. You’ll get caramelized, juicy chicken that becomes the highlight of your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad.

After grilling, let the skewers rest for 3–5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping every bite tender and moist.

Ready to assemble your salad with all its fresh toppings and creamy herby ranch?

Making the Famous Whole30 Herby Ranch Dressing

DIY Herby Ranch vs Store-Bought: What’s the Difference?

In the world of salads, dressing can make or break your bowl—and when it comes to a well-balanced BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad, the herby ranch is what ties every smoky, fresh bite together. While store-bought dressings offer convenience, making your own Whole30 herby ranch unlocks richer flavor and full control over ingredients.

Why homemade dressing shines in a BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad:

• Fresher taste with real herbs and clean fats
• Whole30-compliant—no dairy, no sugar, no junk
• Ultra-creamy texture thanks to emulsified oil and egg

Sure, you can grab a bottle of ranch from the fridge aisle. But once you make this version at home, your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad will never be the same. It’s the ultimate flavor upgrade.

Tips to Store & Use Your Homemade Dressing

Making herby ranch at home is easier than you think—and it elevates your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with every spoonful.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup avocado oil or light olive oil
• 1 raw egg (omit if using mayo base)
• ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh dill
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. In a wide-mouth jar, combine oil and egg. Blend with an immersion blender until a thick mayo forms at the base (about 10 seconds).
2. Add the coconut milk along with vinegar, lemon, and your spices—blend again until it’s rich and creamy.
3. Stir in your fresh chopped herbs and refrigerate.

Storage Tip: Keep in an airtight jar in the fridge for up to a week. Bonus: the flavor deepens by Day 2 or 3, making your second round of BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad even better.

Double the batch if you love it—this ranch is perfect not only for salads but for wraps, bowls, grilled veggies, or as a dip. And it was practically made to drizzle over smoky BBQ chicken pieces fresh off the grill.

Whether you’re building your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad for meal prep or weeknight dinner, this ranch takes things from good to restaurant-worthy.

Assembling the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

How to Layer the Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

Now that your grilled skewers are resting and your herby ranch is chilled and ready, it’s time to pull everything together into a vibrant, hearty BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that’s as good as any restaurant plate. The beauty of this salad is how each element brings something special: crunch, creaminess, char, and a pop of freshness.

Follow these easy steps to assemble like a pro:

1. Start with a generous base of romaine lettuce. Thinly sliced romaine gives structure while absorbing dressing without wilting too fast.
2. Add the color and crunch. Mix in grape tomatoes (quartered), grilled corn shaved from the cob, and chopped green onions for a fresh pop and subtle crunch.
3. Boost the flavor with beans and herbs. Add black beans (if not Whole30), chopped cilantro, and fresh basil for a garden-fresh finish.
4. Top with diced avocado. It brings a smooth, creamy touch that softens the smoky notes and cuts through the BBQ tang.
5. Slice the grilled chicken off the skewers. Place it right on top—hot or room temp both work beautifully.
6. Drizzle with the herby ranch dressing. Use as much or as little as you like, but a good toss before serving helps everything meld together.

Everything comes together in one beautifully bold BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad that delivers on texture and taste with every forkful.

Topping & Finishing Touches to Elevate the Salad

Want to take your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad from great to unforgettable? These final touches do the trick:

• Crunchy tortilla strips or toasted pepitas (if not Whole30)
• Pickled red onions for zing
• A squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten everything up
• Crumbled cotija or feta cheese for salty contrast (optional, non-Whole30)

Don’t be afraid to play with textures—something crunchy, something creamy, something juicy—that’s the secret to a salad that doesn’t just taste good but feels good to eat.

And if you’re packing this BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad for lunch, keep the dressing and skewers separate until serving for best results.

This isn’t just a salad—it’s your new favorite summer meal.

BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad Variations and Substitutes

Whole30 and Gluten-Free Variations

One of the best things about BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is how customizable it is. Whether you’re following a Whole30 protocol, eating gluten-free, or simply trying to clean up your weeknight meals, this salad can adapt with ease.

Here’s how to keep it compliant without sacrificing flavor:

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad stays Whole30 and gluten-free, always double-check your sauces and seasoning blends for hidden sugars, soy, and wheat.

Want to skip the BBQ altogether? Soak your skewers in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a burst of Mediterranean flavor—just right with crunchy veggies and creamy ranch.

Creative Add-ons: From Cheese to Roasted Veggies

If dietary restrictions aren’t a concern, this is where you can get fun and flavorful. Your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is already packed with texture, but these optional add-ins give it extra personality:

• Cheese it up: Add crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, or cotija for a salty kick.
• Add fruit: Fresh mango or pineapple chunks bring out the BBQ sweetness.
• Bulk it up: Mix in some cooked quinoa, brown rice, or farro to boost fiber and keep you feeling full longer.
• Layer on roasted veggies: Think roasted red peppers, grilled zucchini, or even crispy Brussels sprouts.
• Make it smoky: A few dashes of chipotle powder or smoked paprika in the dressing turn up the heat.

This salad is incredibly flexible, making it ideal for entertaining or weeknight meals when you need something filling and exciting without extra fuss.

You can make this salad every week and never get bored by mixing up the ingredients, toppings, and even the grilling style of your chicken. That’s the power of a well-built BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad—it never feels like a repeat.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Chicken Skewers

A BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is filling on its own, but pairing it with the right side can elevate your meal from satisfying to unforgettable. Whether you’re entertaining or just want a little something extra, these sides complement the smoky, herby, and fresh flavors beautifully:

These sides are not just delicious—they’re also easy to prep while your chicken is marinating or grilling. Plus, they align well with both Whole30 and gluten-free lifestyles with simple tweaks.

Beverage Pairings: From Iced Teas to Rosé

Every well-crafted BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad deserves a drink that matches its vibe—fresh, light, and full of character. Whether you prefer non-alcoholic or cocktail pairings, here are some great options:

Non-Alcoholic:

• Iced green tea with mint and lemon – Clean and cooling
• Lime and basil–infused sparkling water – Crisp, cool, and garden-fresh
• Cucumber lemonade – Crisp and slightly sweet

These pairings cut through the richness of the grilled chicken and herby dressing while enhancing the salad’s fresh ingredients.

Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or hosting a backyard cookout, pairing your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad with the right sips and sides ensures the meal is complete and unforgettable.

Nutritional Value and Health Benefits

Are Chicken Skewers Healthy? A Dietitian’s Take

Yes—BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a well-rounded, nutrient-dense meal that fits into a variety of dietary lifestyles. Packed with lean grilled chicken, crisp veggies, wholesome fats, and a Whole30-approved dressing, this salad checks all the nutritional boxes—protein, fiber, and good fats.

Here’s what makes this dish a healthy choice:

• Lean protein: Chicken breast packs a protein punch while keeping saturated fat to a minimum.
• Healthy fats: The blend of avocado, olive oil, and coconut milk in the herby ranch supports heart-friendly nutrition.
• Vitamins and antioxidants: Romaine, tomatoes, green onions, and herbs boost your daily intake of vitamin A, C, K, and potassium.
• Whole ingredients: There’s no need for processed additives or preservatives here.

Even better, the fact that this meal is grilled, not fried, and topped with a dairy-free dressing makes it suitable for clean eaters, Whole30 followers, gluten-free diets, and more.

Low-Calorie BBQ Chicken Salad Swaps You’ll Love

Want to reduce calories without sacrificing taste? It’s easier than you think. Here are some simple ways to make your BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad even lighter:

These tweaks can help you lower the calorie count while keeping the flavor profile intact. It’s all about balance—and this salad offers it in every bite.

If you’re watching your macros, add a scoop of quinoa or omit the beans to fine-tune your carbs. The best part about the BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is how easy it is to modify based on your health goals.

Conclusion

The BBQ Chicken Skewer Salad is more than just a meal—it’s a perfect union of bold barbecue flavor, vibrant vegetables, and creamy, herb-packed dressing. It delivers everything you want in a summer dish: color, crunch, and craveable balance. Inspired by California Pizza Kitchen’s iconic recipe, this homemade version goes a step further with wholesome, Whole30-friendly ingredients and flexible substitutions for any lifestyle.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend dinner, prepping healthy lunches for the week, or just craving something fresh and smoky, this salad rises to the occasion every time.

For more recipes, follow me on Facebook and Pinterest.

FAQs