These BBQ chicken skewers are juicy and packed with flavor! Just marinate the chicken in a tasty sauce, then skewer it with colorful veggies and grill them to perfection.
Grilling these skewers always brings the family together! My favorite part? The smoky aroma that fills the air—it makes everyone hungry! Plus, they’re super easy to make and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless thighs are my go-to for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine if you prefer leaner meat. You can also use other proteins like shrimp or tofu for a fun twist!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought brand, or make your own for a personal touch. If you want a healthier option, low-sugar or sugar-free barbecue sauces are great substitutes.
Bell Peppers: Besides red and green, feel free to use yellow or even orange bell peppers for added sweetness and color. You could also swap them out for zucchini or mushrooms if you’re in the mood for something different.
Honey/Brown Sugar: Maple syrup can replace honey for a vegan-friendly option. It will add a unique flavor while providing the same sweetness.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
The key is in marinating! Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least one hour, but longer is better. This allows the flavors to soak in and keeps the chicken tender while grilling. Use plastic wrap or a sealed container to avoid spills.
- After marinating, thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers without overcrowding. This ensures even cooking.
- Preheat the grill properly; a hot grill helps to sear the meat quickly and locks in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe eating.
By following these tips, your BBQ chicken skewers will be a hit every time! Enjoy the grilling experience, and don’t forget to taste-test the marinade—it’s the secret to deliciousness!
Best BBQ Chicken Skewers for the Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For Grilling:
- Skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This barbecue chicken skewers recipe will take about 15-20 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour for marinating. Once the chicken is marinated, you’ll spend about 12 minutes grilling. Overall, plan for about 2 hours to get everything ready and cooked!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Whisk everything together until it’s well blended and smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take your cubed chicken pieces and add them to the marinade, stirring well to coat all the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least an hour. If you have more time, letting it marinate for 3-4 hours will deepen the flavors.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for around 375-400°F (190-205°C). This temperature is perfect for searing the chicken and getting nice grill marks.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge and start threading the chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with the red bell pepper pieces, green bell pepper pieces, and red onion wedges. This not only looks great but adds flavor too!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Next, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place your skewers on the hot grill and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn the skewers every 3-4 minutes so they cook evenly and get that lovely charred look. Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Add More Flavor (Optional):
If you love extra flavor, brush on some additional barbecue sauce during the last couple of minutes of grilling. This will give your skewers a deliciously sticky glaze!
7. Rest and Serve:
When your skewers are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain their juices. Then, serve them hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled corn, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to enjoy some tasty BBQ chicken skewers! Happy grilling!
FAQ for BBQ Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up with your favorite veggies. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pineapple chunks make excellent additions. Just keep the size similar so they cook evenly.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour, but for maximum flavor, marinating it for 3-4 hours or even overnight is ideal. Just make sure to store it in the fridge during marination!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have skewers, you can grill the chicken and vegetables directly on the grill grates in a grill basket. Just make sure to toss them occasionally for even cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
