BBQ Chicken Skewers

A sizzling summer evening spent grilling BBQ Chicken Skewers is the perfect way to unwind and create lasting memories. This easy yet delicious recipe takes only about 30 minutes to prepare and provides a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken marinated in a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce. The secret to success lies in the simple yet flavorful marinade that infuses every bite with deliciousness.

These BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout, a weekend family dinner, or simply craving grilled food, these skewers are sure to please. For a make-ahead option, you can marinate the chicken the night before and simply grill them when you’re ready to eat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken turns out incredibly tender and juicy every time.
• The marinade imparts a rich flavor that makes each bite delightful.
• Grilling adds a perfect char that enhances the overall taste.
• The recipe is quick to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients for a tasty BBQ experience.

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs

For Cooking

• Skewers

Use wooden skewers soaked in water for better grilling.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken thighs can be replaced with breasts.
• Use any preferred barbecue sauce.
• Honey can substitute for brown sugar.
• Regular paprika can replace smoked paprika.

How to Make It

Start grilling delicious BBQ Chicken Skewers in a few simple steps.

Mix Marinade

Combine barbecue sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Stir until everything is well blended.

Toss Chicken

Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Ensure all pieces are covered for maximum flavor.

Thread Chicken

Carefully thread marinated chicken onto skewers, about 4-5 pieces per skewer. Make sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill Chicken

Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally to char evenly.

Brush with Sauce

In the last few minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with some of the reserved barbecue sauce. Continue grilling until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rest Chicken

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: yes, for 2-3 months.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• For more flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Allow resting time after grilling for juicier chicken.
• Pair with fresh veggies for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve skewers alongside a refreshing garden salad.
• Pair with grilled vegetables for a wholesome feast.
• Enjoy with rice or quinoa for a filling dinner.