The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! Perfect for backyard barbecues, family dinners, or a cozy night in, these skewers are bursting with flavor. The unique addition of Turkey Bacon elevates the dish beyond just your typical BBQ chicken, creating a savory delight that everyone will love. Get ready to impress your guests with this easy and delicious recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unforgettable Flavor – The inclusion of Turkey Bacon adds a rich depth, making these skewers stand out.
• Quick to Prepare – With a simple marinating process and straightforward grilling instructions, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.
• Versatile Dish – Whether served at a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these skewers fit any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly – The sweet BBQ sauce and tender chicken appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy Option – Using chicken thighs or breasts ensures you get a lean protein while enjoying all the flavors.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools and prepare your workspace.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers
• Mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender
• Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill – A good grill provides an even cooking surface that enhances the smoky flavor of the chicken.
• Skewers – These help hold the chicken together for easy flipping and serving on the grill.
• Food Processor – This tool makes it easy to blend the Turkey Bacon into a smooth paste, ensuring even distribution in the marinade.

Ingredients

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: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 2: Preheat the Grill

1. Turn all grill burners to high.
2. Close the lid and heat for about 15 minutes.
3. Leave primary burner on but turn off other burners.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar.
3. Place raw Turkey Bacon in a food processor or blender; pulse for about 30-45 seconds until smooth.
4. Add Turkey Bacon paste and spice mixture to the chicken; mix well until coated.
5. Thread chicken onto skewers, rolling or folding as needed.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

1. Grill chicken over primary burner with lid closed.
2. Turn one-quarter every 2 minutes until browned (about 8 minutes for breast; 10 minutes for thighs).
3. Brush top of skewers with BBQ sauce; flip and cook until sauce is browned (about 1 minute).
4. Brush second side with sauce; flip again to cook through for another minute.

Step 5: Let Rest and Serve

1. Remove skewers from grill and tent with foil; rest for 5 minutes.
2. Serve warm, passing remaining BBQ sauce separately if desired.

Enjoy crafting these delicious BBQ Chicken Skewers that are sure to be a hit at any gathering!

How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Serving the best BBQ chicken skewers can elevate your dining experience. These skewers are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and dips to enhance their flavor.

With Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that complements the smoky flavors of the skewers.

With Dipping Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve some extra BBQ sauce for those who love an extra kick of flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch dressing offers a cool dip that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken.

On a Bed of Rice

• Cilantro Lime Rice: This zesty rice dish adds a fresh element that balances the richness of the chicken.
• Wild Rice Pilaf: Nutty wild rice pilaf provides texture and depth, making it a hearty base for your skewers.

As Part of a Platter

• Kebab Platter: Serve these skewers alongside other grilled items like vegetables or shrimp for a diverse platter.
• Taco Bar: Incorporate the chicken into tacos with toppings like salsa, avocado, and cheese for a fun twist.

How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Perfecting this recipe involves a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure your skewers are delicious every time.

• Bold Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes for maximum flavor absorption.
• Consistent Cubes: Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking on the grill.
• High Heat Grilling: Use high heat to achieve that perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Baste Generously: Brush with BBQ sauce during grilling for added flavor and caramelization.
• Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest after grilling to allow juices to redistribute for moist bites.

Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

To complement your BBQ chicken skewers, consider these side dishes that pair perfectly with their smoky flavor. Each side brings something unique to your meal.

1. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side.
2. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds richness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
3. Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled until tender enhances healthiness and color on your plate.
4. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans provide a hearty balance beside your savory skewers.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread offers a great way to soak up any leftover BBQ sauce.
6. Macaroni Salad: This creamy dish is ideal for adding comfort food vibes to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final result.

• Using the wrong cut of chicken: Always use boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts for juicy skewers. Other cuts can dry out easily.
• Skipping the marination time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge for optimal taste.
• Overcrowding the skewers: When threading chicken onto skewers, leave space between pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
• Not preheating the grill properly: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to sticking and uneven cooking. Ensure it’s hot before placing the skewers on it.
• Neglecting to baste with sauce: Skipping the basting step will result in less flavorful skewers. Make sure to brush BBQ sauce on both sides while grilling.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover BBQ chicken skewers in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Wrap each skewer individually in plastic wrap.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook skewers for around 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe?

The best BBQ chicken skewers recipe features juicy chicken marinated with spices and enhanced with turkey bacon for added flavor.

Can I use different meats in this recipe?

Yes! While chicken is recommended, you can substitute with pork or beef, adjusting cooking times as necessary.

How do I know when my skewers are done?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a nice char on the outside.

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even freeze them for later use.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress your family and friends. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different marinades or vegetables. Give it a try at your next barbecue or gathering for a delicious meal everyone will love!