These tasty BBQ chicken skewers are perfect for grilling lovers! Juicy chicken pieces are coated in a sweet and smoky BBQ sauce, making every bite mouthwatering.
Want to impress at your next cookout? Just marinate, skewer, and grill! I’m always the one bringing these to parties because everyone loves them. 🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for tenderness. If you want a different flavor, try thigh meat, which can be juicier and adds richness.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, you can make a simple one at home using ketchup, vinegar, and spices. You could also use teriyaki sauce for a different vibe!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps flavors meld. Feel free to substitute it with any other cooking oil, like avocado or canola oil. They can work just as well without altering the taste much.
Honey: Honey adds a touch of sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave nectar can serve as great substitutes.
Fresh Herbs: I love topping these skewers with cilantro for a fresh kick, but you can use parsley or basil based on your taste. Even green onions work well!
How Do I Get the Chicken Skewers Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but it gets easier with a few tips! Start by marinating the chicken seriously; letting it soak for longer amplifies the flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps achieve a nice sear and reduces the chance of sticking.
- When threading the chicken onto skewers, leave some space between pieces for hot air to circulate. This ensures even cooking.
- Turn the skewers regularly to avoid burning and baste with extra BBQ sauce for added flavor.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F for safety.
Remember, letting the skewers rest before serving keeps them juicy. Happy grilling!
The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for basting)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
For Serving:
- Fresh lime wedges
- Fresh herbs (such as cilantro or basil), for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus a minimum of 30 minutes to marinate (up to 4 hours for extra flavor). Cooking on the grill takes about 12 minutes. So, you’ll need roughly 1 hour total if you marinate for the minimum time. Get ready for some delicious BBQ chicken skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined to create a tasty marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes into the marinade, making sure each piece is nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 4 hours for even more flavor!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once your chicken is marinated, take it out of the refrigerator. Thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. Remember to baste them with extra BBQ sauce while they cook for that extra flavor! You’ll know they’re done when they’re cooked through and have nice grill marks.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve your BBQ chicken skewers with fresh lime wedges and sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a lovely touch. Enjoy every bite!
What Can I Use Instead of Chicken Breast?
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since thighs may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through due to their thickness.
Can I Make These BBQ Chicken Skewers in the Oven?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Place the skewers on the sheet and cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through. Baste with BBQ sauce in the last 5 minutes for extra flavor!
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Skewers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave, but for best results, warm them in a skillet on low heat so they stay juicy!
Can I Use Other Vegetables on the Skewers?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, red onions, or cherry tomatoes to your skewers for extra flavor and color. Just make sure to cut the vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the added ingredients.
