These BBQ chicken skewers are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! With tender chicken pieces coated in a delicious BBQ sauce, they are perfect for grilling on a sunny day.
There’s nothing quite like the smell of these skewers sizzling on the grill. I love serving them with some fresh veggies. They’ll make you feel like a grilling pro in no time! 🍗🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are great for juicy skewers. If you prefer white meat, feel free to use chicken breasts, but they can dry out faster. Always check for doneness to avoid overcooking.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce for flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, a homemade sauce can be lower in sugar. You can also swap in teriyaki sauce for a different twist.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds a nice touch. For a different flavor, avocado oil or sunflower oil can work just as well without affecting the taste too much.
Honey: Honey gives a nice sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, try agave syrup or maple syrup as substitutes. Adjust to taste since these can vary in sweetness.
Herbs: Fresh cilantro or basil really adds freshness. If you’re not a fan, parsley or green onions can be good alternatives. Just chop them finely for even distribution.
How Do I Get the Chicken Skewers to Cook Evenly?
To ensure that your chicken skewers cook evenly, it’s important to follow a few steps:
- Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Make sure to soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Leave a little space between the chicken pieces on the skewer. This allows heat to circulate and cook the chicken evenly.
- Grill on medium-high heat, turning the skewers occasionally to get a nice char. Use a meat thermometer to check for the safe cook temperature of 165°F (75°C).
The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for brushing)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For Assembly:
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro or basil (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and marinating, plus 10-15 minutes for grilling. If you can, let the chicken marinate for a longer time (up to 4 hours) to bring out even more flavor! Enjoy some time outside while you grill!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the barbecue sauce, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Keep mixing until everything is fully blended. This will be the flavorful marinade for your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the 1-inch pieces of chicken to the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for up to 4 hours for even better taste.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure your wooden skewers have soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is ready, take the pieces out of the marinade. Thread the chicken onto the soaked skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get that nice grilled texture.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the chicken for about 10-15 minutes, turning them every few minutes. Brush them with extra barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a tasty glaze. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely char on the outside.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once they’re grilled to perfection, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to settle. This will make them even tastier!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your BBQ chicken skewers with fresh lime wedges on the side and garnish with chopped cilantro or basil if you like. Enjoy your delicious meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts, just keep in mind that they may dry out faster than thighs. To ensure juicy skewers, consider marinating the chicken for a bit longer or using a lower grilling temperature for longer cooking times.
What If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No problem! You can use metal skewers instead, which don’t need soaking. Just be careful, as they can get very hot. Alternatively, you can place the chicken pieces directly on the grill using a grilling basket to avoid any skewering!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, just add the chicken and let it marinate as instructed. This can actually enhance the flavor!
How to Store Leftover Skewers?
To store leftovers, let the skewers cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. Add a little extra barbecue sauce for added moisture if needed!
