These BBQ Chicken Skewers are super tasty and perfect for a fun cookout! Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, then grilled until they’re nice and smoky.
Trust me, there’s nothing like the juicy flavor of these skewers! I love serving them with a side of veggies. They disappear faster than you can say “grill time”! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using skinless chicken breast is great for this recipe, as it stays tender when grilled. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a tasty substitute and can add more flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: You can use any barbecue sauce you like, but homemade gives a personal touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a low-sugar version or even a marinade made from soy sauce and honey.
Honey: This is optional and adds sweetness. For a sugar-free alternative, consider agave syrup or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Olive Oil: It’s a good choice for grilling due to its high smoke point. You could swap it with avocado oil or canola oil if needed.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a unique smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika plus a dash of cayenne can give a spicy twist.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is key to juicy chicken. Make sure to mix it well and let the chicken soak in it for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours is even better. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat. Here are some tips:
- Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; space them out for heat circulation.
- Preheat your grill properly; a hot grill creates those signature grill marks and seals in juices.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain moisture.
The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp honey (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if using wooden skewers)
For Serving:
- Fresh lime wedges
- Optional garnishes: fresh basil, avocado, or additional barbecue sauce for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. After that, you’ll need about 12 minutes to grill the skewers. So, all in all, you’re looking at about 1 hour total, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and stir well to make sure all the pieces are coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for 2 hours will really deepen the flavors!
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure the chicken gets those nice grill marks and cooks evenly.
4. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember they should be soaked in water to prevent burning!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes, turning the skewers occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and have those beautiful grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like, during the last few minutes of grilling, brush some additional barbecue sauce on the chicken skewers for an extra boost of flavor.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them sit for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the BBQ chicken skewers with lime wedges and any optional garnishes like fresh basil, avocado, or more barbecue sauce for dipping. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for Skewers?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is a great option for skewers, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier result. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. If you’re using boneless, skinless thighs, follow the same marinade and grilling instructions.
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No problem! If skewers aren’t available, you can grill the marinated chicken cubes directly on the grill or use a grilling basket. If using a basket, just make sure to preheat it and give it a good oiling to prevent sticking.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more! Just make sure to keep it refrigerated. However, if your barbecue sauce has a high acidity (like vinegar or citrus), try to limit the marinating time to avoid overly softening the chicken.
How to Store Leftover BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quick option. Avoid reheating on the grill, as it can dry out the chicken.
