The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers are a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love. The standout feature of this recipe is the addition of Turkey Bacon, which enhances the flavor profile and adds a unique twist that you won’t get from traditional BBQ chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Twist: The inclusion of Turkey Bacon gives a depth of flavor that takes this dish to the next level.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, even beginners can master these skewers without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads for added protein.
• Quick Cooking Time: Grill these skewers in just about 10 minutes after prep, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure that everything turns out perfectly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Food processor or blender
• Large bowl
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: This is essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor that complements BBQ chicken skewers.
• Food processor or blender: This tool helps create a smooth Turkey Bacon paste, ensuring even distribution of flavors throughout the chicken.

Ingredients

This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! There are a few easy extra steps that really add a depth of flavor that you can’t get from just BBQ sauce. One word…Turkey Bacon.

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Trim chicken of excess fat, then cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with the kosher salt. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

Turn all grill burners to high, close lid, and heat for about 15 minutes. Leave primary burner on but turn off other burners.

Step 3: Mix Flavors

Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine both paprika types and sugar. Place raw Turkey Bacon in a food processor or blender and pulse for about 30-45 seconds until smooth. Add the Turkey Bacon paste and spice mixture to the chicken. Mix with hands or spatula until well combined and coated.

Step 4: Assemble Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, rolling or folding as necessary to keep them as 1-inch cubes.

Step 5: Grill the Skewers

Grill over primary burner with lid closed. Turn one-quarter every 2 minutes until browned (about 8 minutes for breast meat; about 10 minutes for thighs). Brush tops with BBQ sauce; flip after one minute until sauce is browned.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove skewers from grill, tent with foil, and let rest for about 5 minutes. Serve with remaining BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Serving BBQ chicken skewers is a delightful experience that can enhance any gathering. Here are some creative ideas to make your presentation memorable.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Crisp Garden Salad: A mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Coleslaw: This crunchy side adds a tangy contrast to the smoky flavors of the skewers.

Offer Dipping Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Keep it simple with more of your favorite BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
• Garlic Aioli: A creamy garlic dip that complements the spices in the chicken beautifully.

Serve with Grilled Vegetables

• Zucchini and Bell Peppers: These vegetables can be grilled alongside the skewers for a colorful and healthy addition.
• Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter makes for a classic summer side.

Use Tortillas or Pitas

• Soft Flour Tortillas: Allow guests to create their own wraps filled with chicken and fresh toppings.
• Pita Bread: A great option for making mini sandwiches with added veggies and sauces.

How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Perfecting this BBQ chicken skewers recipe involves attention to detail and a few insider tips. Follow these suggestions for delicious results every time!

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes can deepen its flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices will enhance the overall taste and aroma of your dish.
• Monitor Grill Temperature: Keeping an eye on your grill’s heat will ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
• Rotate Skewers Frequently: Turning every couple of minutes promotes uniform cooking and beautiful grill marks.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skewers to rest after grilling keeps them juicy and flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Complementing your BBQ chicken skewers with tasty sides is key to creating a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Baked Beans: Sweet and savory, these beans add hearty depth to your meal.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a cool contrast to hot, grilled skewers.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears provide a fresh crunch alongside your chicken.
4. Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with veggies is a nutritious choice that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
5. French Fries: Classic crispy fries are always a hit at any barbecue gathering.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad is comfort food that balances out spicy dishes beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe, there are a few common mistakes that can affect your results. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Allowing it to sit for at least 30 minutes enhances the taste significantly.
• Not using skewers properly: Ensure your skewers are long enough and soaked in water if they are wooden. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Avoid packing too many pieces of chicken onto one skewer. This can lead to uneven cooking. Space them out for better heat distribution.
• Ignoring cooking times: Each type of chicken may require different cooking times. Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Neglecting to baste: Basting with BBQ sauce adds extra flavor and moisture. Brush the skewers during the last minutes of grilling for that perfect glaze.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot, around 1-2 minutes.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and cook each skewer for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this the best BBQ chicken skewers recipe?

This recipe stands out due to the addition of Turkey Bacon, which adds an incredible depth of flavor that traditional BBQ sauces alone cannot provide.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even vegetables. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I know when my chicken skewers are done?

Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safe consumption.

Can I prepare these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers a day in advance; just store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ chicken skewers?

Consider serving with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe is not only flavorful but also versatile enough to suit any gathering. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting spices according to your taste preferences. Try this recipe today for an unforgettable barbecue experience!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers

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• Author: Lucille
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Experience the ultimate summer flavor with these BBQ Chicken Skewers, featuring a delectable twist from Turkey Bacon. Perfect for cookouts, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, these skewers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The savory addition of Turkey Bacon enhances the traditional BBQ taste while keeping the chicken juicy and tender. With easy preparation steps, customizable ingredients, and quick cooking time, this recipe is ideal for both novice and seasoned cooks. Serve them as an appetizer or main dish alongside fresh salads and dipping sauces for a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 ½ tablespoons sweet paprika
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 4 teaspoons sugar
• 2–3 slices raw Turkey Bacon (cut into ½-inch pieces)
• 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken by trimming excess fat and cutting it into 1-inch cubes. Toss with kosher salt in a large bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat your grill on high for about 15 minutes.
3. Mix the spices (paprika and sugar) in a small bowl. In a food processor, blend the Turkey Bacon until smooth and combine it with the spice mixture. Add this to the marinated chicken and mix thoroughly.
4. Assemble the skewers by threading marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.
5. Grill over high heat for approximately 8-10 minutes, flipping every couple of minutes, until browned and cooked through. Brush with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
6. Remove from grill, tent with foil for resting, then serve with remaining BBQ sauce.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: <1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg