Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

If you’re looking for a bright and zesty dish that can easily steal the show at any gathering, let me introduce you to my Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad! This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly fun to eat. The combination of grilled chicken skewers and fresh veggies makes it perfect for warm summer days or busy weeknights when you want something light yet satisfying.

What I love most about this salad is its versatility. It works beautifully for family gatherings, casual BBQs, or even meal prep for the week ahead. The delightful mix of textures and tastes will leave everyone wanting more, and trust me, it’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This salad comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and spicy honey buffalo chicken skewers are sure to please both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep the ingredients in advance, making assembly a breeze when you’re ready to eat.
• Customizable: With so many fresh ingredients, you can adjust the flavors to suit your family’s preferences.
• Beautiful Presentation: The colorful layers of this salad make it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this deliciously wholesome Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad, we’ll be using simple, fresh ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store.

For the Chicken Skewers

• 2/3 cup buffalo sauce (or use hot sauce)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 pounds chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 1 tablespoon seasoned salt

For the Salad

• 6 cups shredded lettuce
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup grilled corn kernels (about 2 ears)
• 1/4 cup chopped peperoncini
• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese or cubed cheddar
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
• 1 avocado, chopped

For the Dressing

• 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• 1/3 cup mayo
• 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro
• 3 tablespoons fresh basil
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Kosher salt and black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: If chicken isn’t your thing, try using shrimp or tofu for a tasty alternative.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and freshness.
• Change up the cheese: Crumbled feta adds a tangy twist if blue cheese isn’t your favorite.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños directly into the salad mix!

How to Make Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together the buffalo sauce and honey until well combined. This sweet and spicy mixture will coat our chicken perfectly, adding tons of flavor. It’s important to balance those flavors so every bite of chicken is deliciously satisfying!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Toss together olive oil, chicken cubes, seasoned salt, and a pinch of pepper in another bowl. Pour in about 1/4 cup of that honey buffalo sauce and toss everything until coated. Threading this marinated chicken onto skewers will give us those lovely charred bits while grilling!

Step 3: Grill Your Skewers

Set your grill—or grill pan—to medium-high heat. Grill those skewers until they’re lightly charred and cooked through; this usually takes about 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly. The grilling process adds depth to their flavor that really elevates this dish.

Step 4: Make the Dressing

While your skewers are grilling away, let’s whip up a creamy dressing! Combine all dressing ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy. Taste test before serving; adjusting salt and pepper is key for that perfect balance.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, toss together shredded lettuce, cilantro, tomatoes, corn, and peperoncini with half of your dressing. Arrange grilled chicken skewers on top along with cheese, bacon if using, and avocado. Drizzle any remaining dressing over everything before serving. Enjoy every vibrant bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Creating the perfect Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is a breeze with a few helpful tips!

• Marinate for More Flavor: If you have the time, let the chicken marinate in the buffalo sauce and honey mixture for at least 30 minutes. This enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh produce whenever possible. Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, and herbs make a significant difference in taste and texture, ensuring your salad is vibrant and delicious.

• Grill to Perfection: Keep an eye on your chicken skewers while grilling. Turning them regularly helps achieve that perfect char and prevents burning, resulting in juicy, flavorful pieces.

• Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings! Adding seasonal veggies or switching up the cheese can create new flavor profiles each time you make this dish.

• Serve Immediately: For the best experience, serve your salad right after assembling it. This ensures that your greens stay crisp and fresh, making each bite delightful!

How to Serve Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Presenting your salad beautifully can elevate any meal. Here are some ideas to make your Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad a showstopper!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle some chopped green onions over the top for an added crunch and color.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh juice over their salad for a zesty kick.
• Fresh Herbs: Additional sprigs of cilantro or basil not only add visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Side Dishes

• Cornbread: A sweet and moist cornbread complements the spiciness of the buffalo chicken while adding a comforting touch.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the heat of buffalo sauce, creating a balanced meal.
• Fruit Salad: A chilled fruit salad serves as a delightful palate cleanser and adds a burst of freshness alongside your hearty salad.

Enjoy serving this delicious Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad with these thoughtful touches that will impress family and friends alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the components in advance, making it an excellent choice for busy weekdays or easy entertaining.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the dressing separate to maintain freshness until ready to serve.

Freezing

• It’s best to freeze only the grilled chicken skewers.
• Allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Label and date the bag before freezing; they can last up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen chicken skewers overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on a grill or skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Avoid reheating the salad greens; serve chilled for the best taste.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious salad!

What makes the Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad special?

The unique combination of honey and buffalo sauce creates a delightful balance of sweet and spicy flavors, making this salad anything but ordinary. Plus, grilling the chicken skewers adds a smoky flavor that elevates your meal!

Can I use other proteins in the Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute chicken with grilled shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly cooked.

How can I make this salad more filling?

To make your Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad more filling, consider adding quinoa or brown rice as a base. This will add fiber and protein, turning it into a heartier meal.

What can I use instead of blue cheese in this salad?

If blue cheese isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it out for cubed cheddar, feta cheese, or even vegan cheese options that fit your dietary preferences.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad as much as I do! It’s not only vibrant and flavorful but also brings together friends and family around delicious food. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or dressings—this recipe is all about personalization. Happy cooking!