Summertime calls for outdoor gatherings and delicious grilled delicacies, and nothing quite captures the essence of a BBQ like tender and juicy chicken skewers. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or simply craving a mouthwatering meal, BBQ chicken skewers are an excellent choice.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of creating irresistible BBQ chicken skewers that will impress your guests and leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Assorted vegetables (optional), such as bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes, for skewering
Prepare the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken. Trim off any excess fat and cut it into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are of similar thickness to promote even cooking.
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, cumin, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
This marinade will infuse the chicken with flavor and keep it moist during grilling.
Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish.
Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure to coat each piece thoroughly.
Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
For more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours.
Preparing the Skewers
If you’re incorporating vegetables into your skewers, chop them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between them.
Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the preheated grill, ensuring they are well-spaced to allow proper heat circulation.
Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally to cook evenly on all sides.
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Baste with Marinade
During the last few minutes of grilling, baste the skewers with the remaining marinade.
This step will enhance the flavors and create a delightful glaze on the chicken.
Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a few minutes.
This resting period helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender and succulent chicken.
Serve the BBQ chicken skewers hot with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations and Tips
Sweet and Spicy Twist: Add a kick to your BBQ chicken skewers by including a teaspoon of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the marinade.
Citrus Infusion: For a zesty flavor, replace the lemon juice with lime or orange juice in the marinade. The citrusy tang will elevate your skewers to new heights.
Veggie Delight: Experiment with various vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or pineapple chunks to create colorful and flavorful skewers.
Soaking Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and ensures they don’t splinter.
Proper Grill Temperature: Maintain a medium-high heat on your grill to cook the chicken thoroughly without drying it out.
