Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

If you’re looking for a salad that brings excitement to your table, then you’ll love this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad! It’s the perfect blend of spicy and sweet, making it a delightful choice for those warm summer days or any busy weeknight when you crave something both hearty and refreshing. This salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that turns simple ingredients into something special.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick lunch for yourself, this dish fits the bill perfectly. Plus, who can resist the fun of skewers? They add a playful element to your meal that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: The steps are straightforward, making it simple even for beginner cooks.
• Family-friendly: With flavors everyone loves, it’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep ingredients in advance, making mealtime stress-free!
• Delicious flavor: The balance of honey and buffalo sauce creates an irresistible taste that hits all the right notes.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as a main dish, side salad, or even as meal prep for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You’ll feel good about what you’re putting on your table! Here’s what you need to create this delicious Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad:

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 Base

• 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

For Toppings

• 1 cup crumbled blue cheese or cubed cheddar
• 6 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
• 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 to taste

Variations

One of the best parts about this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try feta or goat cheese if you want to switch up the flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add more jalapeños or include some diced chili peppers for an extra kick!

How to Make Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together your buffalo sauce and honey. This combination gives your chicken skewers that signature sweet-spicy flavor. It’s important to ensure everything is well blended so every bite bursts with deliciousness!

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Toss together olive oil, chicken cubes, seasoned salt, and a pinch of black pepper in another bowl. Drizzle in 1/4 cup of your honey buffalo sauce mixture and toss again to coat evenly. This step helps infuse flavors into the chicken while keeping it tender during cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Skewers

Thread your marinated chicken onto skewers. Preheat your grill (or grill pan/skillet) over medium-high heat. Grill those skewers until they’re lightly charred and cooked through—about 10 to 12 minutes total—turning them occasionally. This encourages that lovely caramelization while ensuring juicy chicken!

Step 4: Make the Dressing

While your skewers are grilling away, whip up your dressing by combining all dressing ingredients in a blender. Blend until creamy! Give it a taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed—this will elevate all those fresh veggie flavors.

Step 5: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, toss together shredded lettuce, chopped cilantro, cherry tomatoes, grilled corn kernels, and peperoncini with half of your dressing. Arrange your grilled chicken skewers on top along with cheese, crumbled bacon, and avocado. Drizzle with additional dressing and serve with any leftover honey buffalo sauce on the side for dipping!

Enjoy every bite of this delectable salad; it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table!

Pro Tips for Making Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Creating the perfect Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is all about the little details. Here are some pro tips to ensure your salad is a hit!

• Marinate for Flavor: Let the chicken marinate in the honey buffalo sauce for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, giving you a juicier and more flavorful skewer.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh, in-season vegetables whenever possible. Fresh produce not only enhances the taste but also adds vibrant colors and nutrients to your salad.
• Preheat Your Grill: Make sure your grill, grill pan, or skillet is hot before adding the skewers. A well-preheated cooking surface helps achieve that delicious char while locking in moisture.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to mix and match veggies based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or radishes can add extra crunch and flavor to your salad.
• Make Extra Dressing: Whip up a little extra dressing to have on hand for leftovers. It’s a great way to refresh the salad on subsequent days and keep it tasting fresh!

How to Serve Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad

Serving this delightful salad is an opportunity to impress your family and friends with both presentation and flavor. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience!

Garnishes

• Chopped Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the dish even more.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of additional cilantro or basil just before serving enhances freshness and aroma.

Side Dishes

• Grilled Vegetable Platter: Lightly charred seasonal vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus make a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
• Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with cucumber, parsley, and a light vinaigrette pairs excellently with the richness of the chicken skewers.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries provide a delightful contrast in texture while adding natural sweetness that complements the buffalo sauce.
• Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad featuring berries, melons, and citrus will cleanse the palate between bites of spicy chicken.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to enjoy your Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad! It’s perfect for summer gatherings, family dinners, or any occasion when you want something delicious yet easy to prepare. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad is perfect for meal prep, making it a delightful option for busy weeknights or lunch on the go. You can easily prepare components in advance, allowing you to enjoy fresh flavors throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover salad in an airtight container.
• Store grilled chicken skewers separately to maintain their texture.
• Keep the dressing in a separate jar to prevent wilting the salad greens.
• Refrigerate and consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze this salad as some ingredients may lose their texture and flavor upon thawing.
• However, you can freeze the grilled chicken skewers before adding them to the salad. Wrap them tightly and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• If you’ve frozen the chicken skewers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on a grill or skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
• Always reheat only what you plan to eat at that meal to keep leftover quality high.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious salad.

Can I use other sauces instead of buffalo sauce in the Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad?

Yes! Feel free to swap out buffalo sauce with your favorite hot sauce or even a teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the honey accordingly based on sweetness preference.

How can I make the Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Alternatively, use plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh marinated in the honey buffalo sauce.

What can I substitute for crumbled blue cheese in this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad?

If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, you can use cubed cheddar cheese or feta as a tasty alternative. Both will add great flavor!

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy in the Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad?

Marinating your chicken cubes in olive oil and honey buffalo sauce before grilling helps keep them moist and flavorful. Be sure not to overcook them on the grill!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Chopped Honey Buffalo Chicken Skewer Salad! It’s vibrant, packed with flavor, and brings together crunchy textures that everyone will love. Enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it! Don’t hesitate to try your variations and share your experience with friends and family. Happy cooking!