This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a cozy night in, these skewers bring a mouthwatering flavor that will impress everyone. The addition of turkey bacon adds a unique twist that enhances the overall taste, making them an irresistible choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of spices and turkey bacon creates a rich depth of flavor that elevates your standard BBQ chicken.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a buffet spread for parties.
- Healthier Option: Using turkey bacon cuts down on fat while still adding that smoky flavor we all love.
- Quick Cooking Time: Grill these skewers in just 10 minutes, making it easy to serve delicious food even on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To achieve the best results with your BBQ chicken skewers, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything comes out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the perfect environment for achieving that smoky charred flavor on your chicken skewers.
- Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken pieces together while they cook evenly on the grill.
- Food processor or blender: Helps create a smooth turkey bacon paste that mixes well with spices and coats the chicken effectively.
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
- 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 kosher salt. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 1 hour.
Step 2: Preheat Your Grill
Turn all grill burners to high, close the lid, and heat for about 15 minutes. Leave the primary burner on but turn off other burners.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar. Place raw turkey bacon in a food processor or blender and pulse until smooth (about 30-45 seconds). Add this turkey bacon paste and spice mixture to the chicken. Mix well using hands or spatula until everything is well-coated.
Step 4: Thread onto Skewers
Thread the chicken onto skewers, rolling or folding as needed to maintain 1-inch cubes.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Grill over primary burner with lid closed. Turn one-quarter of a turn every 2 minutes until browned (about 8 minutes for breasts and 10 minutes for thighs). Brush top with BBQ sauce; flip and cook until sauce is browned (about 1 minute). Brush second side; flip again to cook through.
Step 6: Rest Before Serving
Remove skewers from grill, tent with foil, and let rest for about 5 minutes. Serve hot with remaining BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe
Serving The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers is a delightful experience that can elevate any meal. These skewers are versatile and pair well with various sides and dips, making them perfect for gatherings or family dinners.
Pair with Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A simple mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine provides a refreshing contrast to the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the BBQ sauce.
Accompany with Dips
- Garlic Aioli: This creamy dip enhances the richness of your chicken skewers, adding a delicious garlic kick.
- Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that pairs well with grilled meats, ranch dressing adds a cool touch to each bite.
Serve on a Bed of Rice
- Cilantro Lime Rice: The bright flavors of cilantro and lime add zest to your meal, balancing the savory taste of the skewers.
- Fried Rice: A flavorful accompaniment that can include vegetables and soy sauce, creating a hearty dish alongside your skewers.
How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe
To ensure you achieve the best results with The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe, follow these helpful tips for perfectly grilled chicken every time.
- Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for more than an hour enhances flavor penetration.
- Use high heat: Grilling on high heat creates a nice char while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Choose even pieces: Cutting chicken into uniform cubes ensures even cooking throughout all skewers.
- Baste while grilling: Brush on extra BBQ sauce during grilling for an added layer of flavor and moisture.
Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe
Complementing your BBQ chicken skewers with delicious side dishes makes for a complete meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter provides sweetness that pairs perfectly with smoky flavors.
- Potato Salad: A classic side dish that adds creaminess and richness to balance out the spices in your skewers.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like bell peppers and zucchini can be tossed on the grill for added color and nutrition.
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans bring comfort food vibes to your picnic or gathering.
- Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad offers a satisfying texture contrast against juicy chicken.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser, serving as a delightful vehicle for extra sauce!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure that you create The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe every time. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Skipping the marination: Failing to marinate the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Ensure you allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes to enhance taste.
- Using low-quality BBQ sauce: Not all BBQ sauces are created equal. Choose a high-quality sauce that complements the chicken for the best results.
- Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken on each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure each piece has space for heat circulation.
- Not monitoring grill temperature: Cooking at too high or too low a temperature can ruin your skewers. Use a thermometer if necessary to keep your grill between 350°F and 400°F.
- Neglecting resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after grilling can cause juices to run out. Always let the skewers rest for about 5 minutes before serving.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers 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 or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen 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 on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until hot, usually around 1-2 minutes total.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook skewers for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe made of?
The recipe includes boneless chicken thighs or breasts, turkey bacon, paprika, sugar, and BBQ sauce, creating a flavorful dish.
How do I make The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe tender?
Marinating the chicken properly and not overcooking it can help keep the meat tender and juicy.
Can I customize The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini on the skewers for additional flavor and nutrition.
What should I serve with The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe?
These skewers pair well with sides like coleslaw, grilled corn, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
This recipe showcases how simple ingredients combine to create incredible flavor. The addition of turkey bacon elevates The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe, making it versatile enough for various occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or sauces. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for family gatherings or weekend barbecues!
BBQ Chicken Skewers
Discover the ultimate BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe that will elevate your grilling game this summer! Perfect for cookouts, family gatherings, or cozy nights at home, these skewers are bursting with flavor thanks to a unique twist—turkey bacon. This delightful addition not only enhances the taste but also offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing that beloved smoky flavor. With easy preparation steps and quick cooking times, you’ll impress your guests and satisfy your cravings effortlessly. Serve them as a main course or an appetizer; either way, they’re sure to be a hit at any occasion!
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 (based on four skewers per serving) 1x
Ingredients
- 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 favorite BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from chicken and cut into 1-inch cubes. Toss with salt in a bowl and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.
- Preheat grill on high heat for about 15 minutes.
- Pat chicken dry and mix sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar in a small bowl. Blend turkey bacon until smooth, mix with spices, and coat chicken thoroughly.
- Thread chicken onto skewers, maintaining space between pieces for even cooking.
- Grill skewers over direct heat with the lid closed for about 8-10 minutes, turning every two minutes. Brush with BBQ sauce and flip to brown both sides.
- Allow skewers to rest under foil for 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (100g)
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 75mg