Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad

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When I first created this Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad, I didn’t expect it to become a staple in my weekly meal rotation. The simplicity of skewered chicken kissed by smoky grill marks and the refreshing crunch of cucumber paired with creamy avocado makes this bowl an irresistible delight. It’s a vibrant and nourishing dish that feels like summer in every bite.

What I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together, especially on a busy evening. The marinade infuses the chicken with layers of flavor that only deepen once grilled, and the salad is a breeze to whip up while the skewers are cooking. I often double the portion because leftovers taste just as delicious the next day.

I’ve served this at casual gatherings, family dinners, and even prepped it ahead for weekday lunches. It never fails to impress. The colors pop on the plate, the textures are balanced, and the flavors are fresh yet savory. It’s not just a meal—it’s a bowl full of joy that I come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad

This dish is the perfect marriage of ease and flavor. The grilled chicken skewers are juicy and well-seasoned, while the cucumber avocado salad brings coolness and tang that contrasts beautifully. It’s gluten-free, wholesome, and ideal for meal prep. Whether you’re eating clean or just craving a nourishing meal, this bowl delivers satisfaction without the heaviness. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and family-friendly.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs or Breasts: These are the star of the dish. I prefer boneless, skinless thighs for their juicy texture and deep flavor. They’re perfect for skewering and grilling.

Olive Oil: Used to coat the chicken and help the marinade cling to it, ensuring it stays moist and flavorful.

Garlic and Lemon Juice: These add brightness and depth to the chicken. The lemon tenderizes while the garlic infuses the meat with aroma.

Cumin and Smoked Paprika: These spices create a warm, smoky flavor that complements the char from the grill.

Salt and Pepper: The basics, but essential for seasoning both the chicken and the salad.

Cucumber: Brings a crisp, refreshing crunch to the salad that balances the rich grilled meat.

Avocado: Creamy and buttery, avocado adds healthy fats and a smooth texture that rounds out the bowl.

Red Onion: Adds a slight sharpness and contrast, giving the salad a flavorful edge.

Fresh Herbs (Cilantro or Parsley): Brighten the whole dish with their herbaceous notes.

Red Wine Vinegar and Olive Oil (for salad dressing): A light and tangy dressing to pull everything together.

How to Make the Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate up to overnight.

Step 2: Prepare the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, until charred and cooked through. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Make the Cucumber Avocado Salad
In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cucumber, diced avocado, thinly sliced red onion, chopped fresh herbs, and a splash of red wine vinegar and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls
Add a generous scoop of cucumber avocado salad to a bowl. Place chicken skewers on top or alongside. Garnish with more herbs and a wedge of lemon if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily adjust this bowl based on what you have in your kitchen or your personal preferences. If you’re out of chicken, try using shrimp or tofu. Shrimp grills quickly and pairs beautifully with the salad, while tofu can be marinated the same way for a vegetarian twist.

Feel free to swap in cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or radishes for a crunchier or more colorful salad. Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and herbs makes a creamy alternative to the olive oil dressing.

For grains, serve the skewers and salad over brown rice, quinoa, or even couscous for a more filling version. And if you’re into spice, a drizzle of hot sauce or harissa adds a bold kick.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This bowl is satisfying on its own, but it’s easy to build out into a complete meal. I love serving it with a side of warm pita or grilled flatbread. For a low-carb approach, add a handful of arugula or baby spinach to the bowl.

Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a cucumber mint lemonade. It’s perfect for outdoor dinners or lunch meal prep.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover grilled chicken and salad separately in airtight containers. The chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated in the microwave or lightly pan-seared to restore its texture.

The salad is best eaten fresh, but if stored, keep it tightly sealed and consume within a day due to the avocado. If prepping ahead, wait to add the avocado until right before serving.

FAQs

How do I make Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your spices and condiments are certified gluten-free. Just double-check the labels.

Can I use chicken breast for the Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad?

Absolutely. While chicken thighs offer more moisture, breasts work great too. Just be careful not to overcook them on the grill.

What’s the best way to store leftover Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad?

Keep the chicken and salad components separate. Store chicken in a sealed container for up to 4 days, and make the salad fresh when ready to eat.

Can I cook the chicken skewers indoors for the Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad?

Yes, use a grill pan or even a broiler to cook the skewers indoors. Make sure they’re fully cooked and nicely charred.

Is the Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad good for meal prep?

It’s one of my go-to meal prep recipes. Store chicken and salad base separately, and assemble just before eating for best freshness.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re into bold, summer-friendly flavors like this Grilled Chicken Skewer Bowl with Cucumber Avocado Salad, you might love my Hawaiian BBQ Chicken. It’s smoky, sweet, and perfect for grilling nights.

Another great recipe to try is the Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken. It features fresh herbs and a lemony punch that pairs beautifully with warm weather meals.

For a comfort twist, my Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Gravy is always a hit and great for batch cooking.

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