The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

This really is the best BBQ Chicken Skewers recipe! Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a fun dinner at home, these skewers are packed with flavor. The unique addition of Turkey Bacon adds a delightful twist that elevates this dish beyond ordinary BBQ chicken. They are easy to make and will impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of spices and Turkey Bacon gives these skewers a depth of flavor that stands out.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have these delicious BBQ chicken skewers ready in no time.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these skewers fit right in.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite BBQ sauce or add veggies for extra color and taste.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love skewers! This dish is an excellent way to get everyone excited about dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender
• Plastic wrap
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your chicken skewers.
• Food Processor: Makes blending the Turkey Bacon into a paste quick and easy, ensuring even distribution of flavors.

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

For the Turkey Bacon Mixture

• 2-3 slices raw Turkey Bacon (cut into 1/2-inch pieces)

For Grilling

• 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

1. Trim chicken of excess fat, then cut it into 1-inch cubes.
2. In a large bowl, toss the chicken with kosher salt.
3. Cover the bowl 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 the primary burner on but turn off other burners.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

1. Pat the 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 until smooth (about 30-45 seconds).
4. Add the Turkey Bacon paste and spice mixture to the chicken; mix until well combined.
5. Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers, rolling or folding as needed.

Step 4: Grill the Skewers

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

Step 5: Rest and Serve

1. Remove skewers from grill; tent with foil for 5 minutes to rest.
2. Serve hot with remaining BBQ sauce on the side if desired.

How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Serving BBQ chicken skewers can be both fun and versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Garden Salad: A mix of fresh greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a refreshing contrast.
• Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy texture that complements the grilled chicken.
• Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad with veggies offers a satisfying side that balances the flavors.

Accompany with Dipping Sauces

• Extra BBQ Sauce: Serve additional BBQ sauce for those who love extra flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: This creamy option adds a cool and zesty dip for the skewers.
• Honey Mustard: The sweetness of honey mustard pairs wonderfully with smoky flavors.

Serve with Grains

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up delicious juices from the chicken skewers.
• Quinoa Salad: A nutritious quinoa salad adds texture and nutrition to your plate.

How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and tenderness in your BBQ chicken skewers, keep these tips in mind.

• Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless skinless thighs over breasts for juicier results.
• Marinate Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes for enhanced flavor absorption.
• Preheat Your Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is hot enough; this will help create those beautiful grill marks and seal in moisture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Space out the chicken pieces on the skewers for even cooking and better char.
• Use Two-Zone Cooking: Utilize direct heat for searing and indirect heat for finishing cooking without burning.
• Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing the skewers to rest after grilling helps retain juices, making each bite more flavorful.

Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Side dishes can enhance your meal experience by adding variety and balance. Here are some great options to serve alongside your BBQ chicken skewers.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and corn complement the smokiness of the chicken.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn can be grilled alongside the skewers, providing a classic summer flavor.
3. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add a rich, savory element that pairs well with BBQ flavors.
4. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread acts as an excellent vehicle for any leftover sauce you may have.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers richness that balances out the grilled chicken’s smokiness.
6. Cucumber Relish: A refreshing cucumber relish adds brightness and acidity to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe can be simple, but there are a few common errors that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Skipping the Marination: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland skewers. Always refrigerate the seasoned chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor.
• Using Too Much Heat: Overheating your grill can cause the chicken to cook too quickly on the outside while remaining raw inside. Start with high heat, but adjust temperature as needed.
• Neglecting to Dry the Chicken: Failing to pat the chicken dry before seasoning can prevent proper browning. Make sure to use paper towels for drying before applying spice mixes.
• Crowding the Skewers: Overloading skewers with chicken pieces can lead to uneven cooking. Aim for one inch of space between pieces for optimal grilling.
• Not Letting Skewers Rest: Cutting into the skewers immediately after grilling can result in dry meat. Allow them to rest under foil for five minutes before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container.
• They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Wrap each skewer tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag; they can freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread skewers on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, adding a little oil if desired. Cook skewers for around 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe unique?

This recipe stands out due to the addition of Turkey Bacon, which adds moisture and depth of flavor that enhances traditional BBQ sauce.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is essential, but you can refrigerate it for up to an hour for more intense flavor absorption.

Can I use other meats in this recipe?

Yes! While this is a chicken skewer recipe, you can substitute with pork, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

What sides pair well with The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe?

Consider serving these skewers with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy while grilling?

Patience is key! Allowing the chicken pieces to rest after grilling helps retain their juices and improves tenderness.

Final Thoughts

The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by changing spices or adding veggies on the skewers. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a family dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Give them a try and enjoy their smoky goodness!

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Mouthwatering BBQ Chicken Skewers with Turkey Bacon

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Indulge in the ultimate BBQ experience with these delicious BBQ Chicken Skewers! Perfect for summer cookouts, family gatherings, or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe features tender chicken marinated to perfection and enhanced with the unique flavor of Turkey Bacon. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also a guaranteed hit among your guests. Customize them with your favorite BBQ sauce or add colorful vegetables for an extra pop. Get ready to impress everyone at your next gathering with this flavorful dish!

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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

Instructions

1. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes and toss with kosher salt. Refrigerate covered for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill on high heat for about 15 minutes.
3. In a food processor, blend Turkey Bacon until smooth. Mix with sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and sugar; combine with chicken.
4. Thread seasoned chicken onto skewers and grill over direct heat, turning every two minutes until cooked through (about 8-10 minutes).
5. Brush skewers with BBQ sauce before serving and let rest under foil for five minutes.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 skewer
• Calories: 213
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 721mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 83mg

Keywords: For juicier results, choose boneless skinless thighs over breasts. Allow marination longer than 30 minutes for deeper flavor. Utilize two-zone grilling: high heat for searing and lower heat for cooking through.