In This Article:

• Why These Skewers are a Must-Try
• What You’ll Need
• Step-by-Step Instructions
• Tips for Perfect Skewers
• Flavor Variations
• Storage & Reheating
• FAQ

Why You’ll Love These Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers

These skewers are destined to become a new favorite, and here’s why:

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep time.
• Flavor explosion: That honey garlic BBQ sauce is amazing.
• Crowd-pleaser: Always a hit at parties and cookouts.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the spice level or add veggies.

I’m always on the lookout for simple meals that deliver big flavor, and these skewers fit the bill perfectly. What I love most is how easy they are to prepare. The honey garlic BBQ sauce truly makes them special; it’s sweet, tangy, and creates a beautifully caramelized coating on the chicken. My family asks for them all the time!

On busy weeknights when I crave something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen, this is the recipe I turn to. Also, for gatherings, this one is always devoured. This is comfort food simplified.

Ingredients for Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to because they cook quickly and stay lean.
• Honey Garlic BBQ Sauce: The magic ingredient! This uses honey, fresh garlic, your favorite BBQ sauce, soy sauce (I like low sodium), apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes.
• Skewers: I prefer wooden skewers for grilling.

Let’s break down the ingredients:

Chicken:

I typically reach for boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they are lean and cook fast. That being said, you can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you’d rather have something juicier. If you do, simply adjust the cooking time. For another great chicken option, see this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad recipe.

Consider the size of your chicken breasts when prepping. If they are particularly thick, you may want to butterfly them horizontally before cubing to ensure even cooking on the skewer.

The Honey Garlic BBQ Sauce:

Here is where it comes together! For this, you’ll want honey, garlic (fresh is better!), your BBQ sauce of choice, soy sauce (I usually use low sodium), a splash of apple cider vinegar, and optional red pepper flakes. For inspiration, see this 35 Minute Homemade Tangy BBQ Sauce For Grilling Season Secret recipe.

When it comes to the honey, use a good quality one for the best flavor. Local honey can be an excellent choice, bringing a unique floral note to the sauce.

Skewers:

While I prefer wooden skewers, you can also use metal. Remember, if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes, so they don’t burn up on the grill.

Soaking the wooden skewers is a crucial step! This simple act prevents them from catching fire and potentially ruining your entire meal. Don’t skip it!

How to Make Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to get started? It’s really very straightforward.

Step 1: Cut the Chicken

Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking and to easily thread them onto the skewers. For chicken thighs, trim any excess fat and cut them into similar-sized pieces.

Aim for consistent cube sizes. If some pieces are significantly larger, they will take longer to cook, potentially leading to unevenly cooked skewers.

Step 2: Make the Honey Garlic BBQ Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together the honey, minced garlic, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and red pepper flakes. Once combined, put the chicken cubes into the marinade, and make sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it becomes!

Make sure every chicken piece is coated! Give the mixture a good toss to ensure the marinade penetrates every nook and cranny. If you’re short on time, even a 15-minute marinade will make a difference.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. I usually put 5-6 pieces of chicken on each skewer.

Don’t pack the chicken too tightly on the skewers. This allows for better airflow and ensures even cooking all around. Plus, those slightly caramelized edges are the best part!

Step 4: Grill or Bake the Skewers

Time to cook! You can grill or bake these, so here’s how:

Grilling:

Heat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates to avoid sticking. Put the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and nicely caramelized. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165°F (74°C).

Keep a close eye on the skewers while grilling, and turn frequently to prevent burning. The honey in the BBQ sauce can caramelize quickly, so adjust the heat if needed.

Baking:

Heat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.

Baking is a great option when the weather isn’t cooperating. The parchment paper makes cleanup a breeze and prevents the skewers from sticking to the baking sheet.

Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Tips for the Best Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers

Here are a few tips to ensure your Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfect:

Avoid Sticking

Make sure your grill grates are clean and oiled well. You can also brush the skewers with a bit of oil before grilling.

A clean grill is a happy grill! Use a grill brush to remove any residue before oiling the grates. This will help prevent sticking and ensure those beautiful grill marks.

Promote Even Cooking

Cut the chicken into uniform sizes so it cooks evenly. Also, don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece.

Even cooking is key to delicious skewers. Consistent cube sizes and spacing on the skewer are essential for achieving this.

Monitor Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to make sure the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). Overcooked chicken will be dry, and undercooked chicken is unsafe to eat.

A meat thermometer is your best friend when cooking chicken. It takes the guesswork out of it and ensures perfectly cooked, safe to eat chicken every time.

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers Variations

Here are a few ways to change up these skewers!

Increase the Heat

For more spice, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade, or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicy BBQ sauce for extra zing.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different chili powders or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Taste as you go to find your perfect level of spice.

Make it Vegetarian

Swap the chicken for firm or extra-firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess water and cut into cubes. Marinate and grill or bake as directed.

Pressing the tofu is crucial for removing excess water and allowing it to absorb the delicious marinade. You can also use paneer cheese for a richer flavor.

Add Vegetables

Add some veggies to your skewers, alternating with the chicken. Bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are all great choices.

Consider adding pineapple chunks for a tropical twist, or mushrooms for an earthy flavor. The possibilities are endless!

When adding vegetables, consider their cooking times. Some veggies, like bell peppers and onions, take longer to cook than others, so adjust their size accordingly.

How to Store and Reheat Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers

Storing Leftovers

Let the skewers cool completely, then remove the chicken and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Keeping the chicken off the skewers helps prevent it from drying out.

Proper storage is essential for maintaining the quality and safety of your leftovers. Make sure the chicken is completely cooled before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Reheating Tips

In a skillet over medium heat, or in the microwave, reheat the chicken. If you’re using a skillet, add a splash of water or broth to stop it from drying out. Or, put them back on the grill for a few minutes!

Reheating on the grill adds a touch of smoky flavor, but be careful not to overcook the chicken. A low and slow approach is best to prevent drying out.

When microwaving, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture and prevent it from becoming rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs will result in a juicier and more flavorful skewer. Use boneless, skinless thighs and adjust the cooking time as needed. Also, have you tried Baked Chicken Drumsticks?

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. Don’t marinate for longer than 4 hours, or the chicken could get mushy.

What’s the best way to keep the skewers from burning?

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. Also, ensure your grill isn’t too hot; turn the skewers frequently to prevent burning on one side.

Ready to Try These Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers?

These Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Easy, flavorful, and great for any occasion, they’re definitely going to become a new family favorite. Fire up that grill and enjoy these absolutely delicious skewers!

More Recipes You’ll Enjoy:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken
• Air Fryer Chicken Breast
• Baked Chicken Drumsticks
• Cook Chicken Breast Pan
• Cook Chicken Breast Pan 2

Helpful References:

• 30 Minute Honey Garlic Chicken
• 35 Minute Homemade Tangy Bbq Sauce For Grilling Season Secret
• Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

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