The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! The combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and a touch of Turkey Bacon creates an unforgettable dish perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. With its smoky, sweet notes and juicy texture, these skewers are sure to impress everyone at your next barbecue.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The blend of sweet and smoked paprika, along with Turkey Bacon, elevates the taste beyond traditional BBQ.
• Easy Preparation: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Versatile Dish: Great for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or meal prep—these skewers fit any occasion.
• Healthy Option: Using chicken thighs or breasts keeps it lean while still being satisfying and protein-rich.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth process. Having everything on hand will make preparation easy and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Food processor or blender
• Large bowl
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A high-quality grill allows for even cooking and great char that enhances flavor.
• Skewers: Proper skewers hold ingredients securely and make turning them on the grill easier.
• Food Processor: This tool quickly turns Turkey Bacon into a paste, ensuring even distribution in the chicken mixture.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

• 2 pounds boneless (skinless chicken thighs or breasts)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• 2-3 slices raw Turkey Bacon (cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

How to Make The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Trim chicken of excess fat and cut into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, toss chicken with kosher salt.
3. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Turn all grill burners to high.
2. Close lid and heat for about 15 minutes.
3. Leave the primary burner on but turn off other burners.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

1. Pat dry the chicken pieces with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar.
3. Place raw Turkey Bacon in a food processor or blender; pulse until smooth (30-45 seconds).
4. Add Turkey Bacon paste and spice mixture to the chicken; mix until well coated.
5. Thread chicken onto skewers.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Grill chicken over primary burner with lid closed.
2. Turn skewers one-quarter turn every 2 minutes until browned (about 8 minutes for breast meat; 10 minutes for thighs).
3. Brush top side with BBQ sauce; flip to cook until sauce is browned in spots (about 1 minute).
4. Brush second side with sauce; flip again until cooked through (another minute).

Step 5: Serve

1. Remove skewers from grill and tent with foil; let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Pass remaining BBQ sauce separately if desired.

Enjoy your homemade BBQ Chicken Skewers!

How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Serving BBQ chicken skewers can elevate your meal and impress guests. Here are some creative and delicious ways to present this dish.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad – A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese complements the smoky flavors of the skewers.
• Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw with a tangy dressing adds a delightful contrast to the tender chicken.
• Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce and creamy dressing offer a rich flavor profile that pairs well with grilled chicken.

Add Dips and Sauces

• Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch is a crowd-pleaser and offers a cool touch to the spicy skewers.
• Chimichurri Sauce – This herbaceous sauce adds brightness and freshness to each bite of chicken.
• Spicy Mustard – For those who enjoy heat, spicy mustard can enhance the flavors of the BBQ sauce.

Serve with Grains

• Couscous – Light and fluffy couscous can soak up the BBQ sauce beautifully while adding texture.
• Quinoa – Nutty quinoa is a healthy option that provides protein and fiber alongside your skewers.

How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

To achieve the best results with your BBQ chicken skewers, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken to marinate for more than an hour can deepen flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill Well – A hot grill ensures perfect charring without drying out the meat.
• Alternate Vegetables on Skewers – Adding bell peppers or onions between chicken pieces can add extra flavor and color.
• Check Internal Temperature – Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing skewers to rest for five minutes helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Complement your tasty BBQ chicken skewers with these delightful side dishes. They will enhance your meal experience.

1. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms char perfectly on the grill.
2. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is always a favorite during summer barbecues; serve it grilled or boiled for added sweetness.
3. Potato Salad – A creamy potato salad balances the smokiness of skewered chicken while being satisfying.
4. Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans bring sweetness and depth to your meal, pairing well with BBQ flavors.
5. Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad is comforting and works nicely as a side dish at any gathering.
6. Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs adds a flavorful base under your skewers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make a big difference in your BBQ chicken skewers. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping Marination: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for better taste.

• Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: Wooden skewers can burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent this issue.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too many pieces onto one skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave space between pieces to ensure even heat distribution.

• Cooking on High Heat Only: Grilling at excessively high temperatures can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use a two-zone cooking method for best results.

• Neglecting to Rest After Cooking: Cutting into skewers immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake skewers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave in short intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers, turning occasionally, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe:

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts as they work well for this recipe. Just remember that they may cook faster than thighs.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature of chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is fully cooked and safe to eat.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose your favorite BBQ sauce that complements your taste preferences; sweet or smoky sauces enhance the flavor of these skewers beautifully.

Can I customize The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini onto the skewers for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with different spices or vegetables based on your preferences. Try it out at your next gathering and impress your guests with these flavorful skewers!

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The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

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• Author: Laura Milligan
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Get ready to impress your friends and family with The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe! These mouthwatering skewers feature tender chicken marinated in a blend of sweet and smoky spices, complemented by the rich flavor of Turkey Bacon. Perfect for summer barbecues or cozy dinners, this dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Customize it with your favorite vegetables for added nutrition and flavor. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking on a stovetop, this recipe guarantees juicy, succulent bites that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• 2–3 slices raw Turkey Bacon (cut into 1/2-inch pieces)
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce

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Instructions

1. Trim excess fat from the chicken and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with kosher salt in a large bowl, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill on high for about 15 minutes, then set up for indirect cooking.
3. Pat dry the chicken and combine sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar in a small bowl. Blend Turkey Bacon until smooth and mix with the spice mixture and chicken until well coated.
4. Thread the chicken onto skewers and grill over indirect heat, turning every two minutes until cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling, then let rest before serving.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Marinate longer than an hour for more flavor. Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions between chicken pieces for extra color and taste. Ensure proper grilling techniques to avoid drying out the meat.