These BBQ chicken skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, then grilled to perfection. Yum!
Making skewers is always a party! I love serving them at cookouts. Plus, they’re easy to eat, which means no messy fingers. Who doesn’t love that? 😄
It’s super simple to whip up this recipe. Just marinate the chicken, thread it on skewers, and grill. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for skewers because they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you want a different flavor, try chicken thighs instead. They’re a bit richer and very tender!
Barbecue Sauce: You can use your favorite brand or homemade sauce for the marinade. If you’re looking for a healthier option, sugar-free barbecue sauce works well too, although it may be less sweet.
Honey: Honey adds a nice sweetness to the marinade. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup is a good substitute. For a spicy twist, use agave syrup with added chili powder!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. You can switch it for regular paprika if you don’t have it, or even use chili powder for a bit more heat. Garlic and onion powder are essential for flavor, but fresh garlic and onions can work too!
Skewers: If you don’t have skewers, you could make this dish into a stir-fry instead! Just cook the marinated chicken in a pan and serve over rice.
How Do You Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy BBQ chicken skewers lies in marinating and cooking techniques. Start by marinating the chicken. This allows the spices and barbecue flavors to soak in and tenderize the meat.
- Mix all marinade ingredients together thoroughly.
- Coat the chicken cubes well and let them sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Longer marinating (up to 2 hours) adds even more flavor!
When it comes time to grill, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, keeping the juices locked inside. Remember to turn the skewers occasionally for even cooking and baste with more barbecue sauce for that sticky, flavorful finish!
The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus additional for basting)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Skewers:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes of prep time and at least 30 minutes of marinating time (up to 2 hours for better flavor). You’ll spend around 12 minutes grilling the skewers, making it a quick and delicious option for your next barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, creating a flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece is coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will boost the flavors even more!
3. Get the Grill Ready:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken from the fridge and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This will help the chicken stay juicy and cook through properly.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. During the last few minutes of grilling, brush them with a little extra barbecue sauce for added flavor and moisture.
6. Check for Doneness:
Make sure that the chicken is cooked all the way through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This will ensure that it’s safe to eat and deliciously juicy!
7. Let the Skewers Rest:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the chicken, making every bite delightful!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ chicken skewers garnished with lime wedges and have some extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Perfect for sharing at any gathering—enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative and will yield even juicier skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking times. You may also want to adjust the marinating time to a minimum of 1 hour for maximum flavor.
What If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! You can use metal skewers or even grill baskets to hold the chicken pieces. If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them for at least 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover BBQ chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave or back on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Brush with a little barbecue sauce to keep them moist!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken to the marinade as directed and proceed with the recipe!
