These Easy BBQ Chicken Skewers are a fun way to enjoy grilled chicken! Juicy pieces of chicken are marinated in a tangy BBQ sauce and then stuck on skewers for easy flipping on the grill.
Get ready for a delicious meal that brings everyone together! I love to serve them with a side of fresh veggies. Plus, they’re perfect for summer cookouts—just don’t forget the napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs. I personally prefer thighs for their juiciness, but breasts are great if you’re watching your fat intake. If you want a vegetarian option, try using firm tofu or mushrooms instead!
BBQ Sauce: Your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce works well, but feel free to make your own! Mixing ketchup with a bit of honey and apple cider vinegar always does the trick. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for sugar-free BBQ sauce, or use a marinade made from soy sauce with spices.
Oil: Olive oil is my go-to for flavor, but you can substitute it with canola oil or even melted butter for a richer taste. Each oil brings a unique blend of richness!
Seasonings: The smoked paprika adds a delightful smoky flavor, but if you don’t have it, use regular paprika or even a bit of cayenne for heat. Changing up your spices can totally shift the flavor profile!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy?
Keeping the chicken juicy is all about marinating and cooking at the right temperature. Here are my tips:
- Make sure to marinate for at least 30 minutes—longer if you can. This infuses flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Cook over medium-high heat to get a nice sear without drying out the meat. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Your skewers should be turned every few minutes. This ensures even cooking and prevents burning on one side.
- Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist!
Easy BBQ Chicken Skewers for Grilling
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Skewers:
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (wooden or metal; if wooden, soaked in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. You’ll also need about 10-12 minutes for grilling. Overall, you’ll have tasty BBQ chicken skewers ready in just under an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to stir everything together until smooth. This marinade will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing them gently to coat all sides. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate for 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F or 200°C). This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
4. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
After marinating, take the chicken out and thread the pieces onto your skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to help them cook evenly. If you’re using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaked in water to prevent burning on the grill.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the chicken skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes total, turning the skewers every 3-4 minutes to ensure all sides are cooked. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning! The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Add Extra Flavor:
If you like extra saucy skewers, brush some additional BBQ sauce on the chicken during the last few minutes of grilling. It gives them a delicious glaze!
7. Rest Before Serving:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken nice and tender.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ chicken skewers hot with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious meal with friends and family!
Happy grilling!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Proteins in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, beef, or pork. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary. For shrimp, grill for about 3-5 minutes, and for beef or pork, aim for a similar time as chicken but ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can enjoy them cold or reheat briefly in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat to avoid drying them out.
Can I Make These Skewers in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice color. Keep an eye on them to avoid drying out!
What Should I Pair With BBQ Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or even rice and beans. For a lighter meal, serve them with quinoa or a refreshing coleslaw. Feel free to get creative with sides!
