The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Name: The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1.5 tablespoons sweet paprika; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 4 teaspoons sugar; 2-3 slices raw turkey bacon (cut into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 cup BBQ sauce; Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: July 23, 2025

by Alexia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Incredible Flavor: The unique addition of turkey bacon adds a smoky depth that complements the chicken perfectly.
Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have these skewers ready in no time.
Versatile Dish: Great for any occasion—serve them at parties, picnics, or as a weeknight meal.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves grilled chicken! These skewers are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Healthy Option: Using boneless skinless chicken gives you a lean source of protein without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill
Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
Mixing bowl
Food processor or blender
Plastic wrap

Importance of Each Tool

Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
Skewers: Allows for even cooking and easy flipping on the grill, ensuring all pieces get that delicious BBQ sauce.
Food Processor: Helps create a smooth turkey bacon paste that coats the chicken evenly for maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe:

For the Chicken Skewers

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 the salt. Then 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 lid, and heat for about 15 minutes. Leave primary burner on but turn off other burners.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients

While waiting for the grill to heat, pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine both paprika and sugar. Place the raw turkey bacon in a food processor or blender and pulse for about 30-45 seconds until a smooth paste forms.

Step 4: Coat Chicken with Marinade

Add the turkey bacon paste along with the spice mixture to the chicken. Mix thoroughly with hands or spatula until blended well.

Step 5: Thread onto Skewers

Thread the seasoned chicken onto skewers, rolling or folding as needed to maintain 1-inch cubes.

Step 6: Grill the Skewers

Grill over the primary burner with lid closed, turning one-quarter of a turn every 2 minutes until browned (about 8 minutes total for breasts; about 10 minutes for thighs).

Step 7: Add BBQ Sauce

Brush one side of skewers with BBQ sauce; flip and cook until sauce is browned in spots (about 1 minute). Brush second side with sauce; flip again to cook for another minute until cooked through.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove skewers from grill and tent with foil. Let them rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Pass remaining BBQ sauce separately if desired.

How to Serve The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Serving BBQ chicken skewers can elevate your dining experience. These skewers are not only delicious but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to consider.

Serve with Fresh Salads

Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese that complements the smoky flavors.
Coleslaw: Crunchy and creamy coleslaw adds a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.
Caesar Salad: Classic Caesar with romaine, croutons, and Parmesan is a crowd-pleaser alongside BBQ chicken.

Pair with Dips

Ranch Dressing: A cool ranch dip can enhance the BBQ flavor and add creaminess.
Honey Mustard Sauce: Sweet and tangy honey mustard offers a unique twist that pairs well with grilled chicken.
Salsa Verde: A zesty salsa verde brings freshness and brightness to the meal.

Add Grilled Vegetables

Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grilling these veggies alongside the skewers enhances their natural sweetness.
Corn on the Cob: Charred corn brings a smoky flavor that perfectly complements BBQ dishes.

How to Perfect The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Perfecting your BBQ chicken skewers involves a few tips that will enhance their flavor and texture. Follow these suggestions for the best results.

Use High-Quality Chicken: Selecting fresh, organic chicken ensures a juicier and more flavorful result.
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 1 hour can infuse more flavor into each piece.
Preheat Your Grill Properly: Ensuring your grill is hot before cooking helps achieve better sear marks and prevents sticking.
Rotate Regularly: Turning the skewers every couple of minutes helps cook them evenly and prevents burning.
Monitor Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165°F for safety without overcooking.
Rest Before Serving: Letting the skewers rest after grilling allows juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.

Best Side Dishes for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Side dishes can complement your BBQ chicken skewers beautifully. Here’s a list of perfect pairings that will round out your meal nicely.

Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit; it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans add sweetness and richness to balance out the savory chicken.
Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad provides comfort alongside the vibrant flavors of BBQ chicken.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus adds color and subtle crunch to your plate.
Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is an excellent side that complements barbecue flavors with its tenderness.
Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing refreshes the palate between bites of smoky chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe, it’s crucial to avoid common pitfalls that can impact flavor and texture.

Skipping the marinating step: Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor. Always allow at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
Not drying the chicken properly: Wet chicken won’t grill well. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning and skewering.
Using too much sauce too early: Applying BBQ sauce too soon can cause it to burn. Brush it on during the last minute of grilling for better results.
Overcrowding the skewers: Overcrowded skewers cook unevenly. Ensure there’s space between each piece of chicken for even heat distribution.
Ignoring cooking times based on chicken cuts: Breasts and thighs have different cooking times. Monitor closely to avoid undercooked or overcooked meat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow skewers to cool completely before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Place cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This section addresses some common queries about The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe.

Can I use different meats for this recipe?

Yes! While chicken is preferred, you can substitute with beef or shrimp. Adjust cooking times based on the meat used.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer ensures safety and juiciness.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Choose your favorite sauce! Sweet, tangy, or spicy varieties all complement the flavors of this recipe well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the skewers and marinate them a day in advance, making it perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe is a must-try for any grilling enthusiast! The unique addition of Turkey Bacon adds incredible depth to every bite. Feel free to customize your skewers with vegetables or different marinades. Enjoy these flavorful skewers at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card