Delicious BBQ Chicken Kebabs Recipe

BBQ Chicken Kebabs are a tasty summer dish. They have tender chicken, colorful veggies, and pineapple, all wrapped in bacon. They’re also smothered in a tangy barbecue sauce. This recipe is great for outdoor gatherings and can be cooked on the grill or in the oven.

The secret to these grilled chicken kebabs is the spice rub and homemade barbecue sauce. These add sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. With just 30 minutes of prep, you can impress your guests at any event.

Key Takeaways

Tender, juicy chicken pieces marinated in a flavorful spice rub
Colorful vegetables and pineapple add texture and freshness
Bacon wraps provide a delicious, crispy element
Homemade barbecue sauce adds a tangy, caramelized glaze
Versatile recipe that can be grilled or broiled in the oven

Introduction to BBQ Chicken Kebabs

Get ready to be amazed by the flavorful grilled chicken and unique kebab recipe. These customizable skewers mix juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and a homemade BBQ glaze. Your guests will ask for more.

What Makes These Kebabs Special

The magic of these BBQ chicken kebabs is in the spice mix and smoky grill. The bacon wrapping adds a crispy, savory touch. It also keeps the chicken moist and full of flavor.

Quick Overview of Ingredients

Chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
Thick-cut bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
Bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
Red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Pineapple chunks
Homemade spice rub
Barbecue sauce

This unique kebab recipe combines sweet, savory, and smoky tastes. It’s perfect for your next outdoor event or summer BBQ.

Essential Equipment for Perfect Kebabs

Creating delicious BBQ chicken kebabs requires the right tools. Skewers hold the ingredients together, and a basting brush adds flavor. Each tool is key to grilling success.

Skewers: Metal or wooden skewers are a must-have for building your kebabs. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Basting Brush: A high-quality basting brush is invaluable for applying your homemade BBQ sauce or marinade to the chicken and vegetables as they cook.
Tongs: Long-handled tongs are essential for safely turning and handling the kebabs on the grill or broiler pan.
Cutting Board and Knife: A sturdy cutting board and a sharp knife are necessary for prepping your chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients.

With these grilling tools, skewers, and a basting brush, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect BBQ chicken kebabs that your guests will rave about.

Equipment	Quantity	Purpose
Metal or Wooden Skewers	12	For assembling and grilling the kebabs
Basting Brush	1	For applying barbecue sauce or marinade to the kebabs during cooking
Tongs	1 pair	For safely turning and handling the kebabs on the grill or broiler pan
Cutting Board	1	For prepping the chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients
Sharp Knife	1	For cutting the chicken, vegetables, and other ingredients

“The right tools can make all the difference in creating the perfect BBQ chicken kebabs.”

Ingredients Selection and Preparation

Making the perfect BBQ chicken kebabs starts with picking the right ingredients. Choose boneless chicken for the main dish. Chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1/2 to 1-inch pieces are tender and juicy.

Fresh, vibrant produce is key for color, texture, and flavor. Bell peppers, red onions, and pineapple chunks add a nice contrast to the chicken. For a smoky, crispy touch, wrap the chicken in center-cut bacon.

Choosing the Right Chicken Cut

Go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts are easy to skewer and cook evenly. Without skin, there’s less fat to drip and cause flare-ups.

Fresh Vegetables and Additions

Bell peppers: Choose a variety of colors for a vibrant display.
Red onions: Their sharp flavor and crunchy texture complement the chicken perfectly.
Pineapple chunks: Adding a touch of sweetness balances the savory chicken.

Bacon Selection Tips

For wrapping, use center-cut bacon. It has the right mix of meat and fat. This ensures the bacon crisps up well on the grill without being too greasy.

“The key to delicious BBQ chicken kebabs is selecting high-quality, fresh ingredients that complement each other perfectly.”

The Ultimate Spice Rub Recipe

Take your BBQ chicken kebabs to the next level with our special spice blend. This dry rub turns simple chicken into a delicious treat. It’s made from brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, and more.

The mix of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors is key. Brown sugar caramelizes, smoked paprika adds a hint of heat, and chili powder brings a touch of spice. Onion flakes, garlic powder, thyme, and black pepper complete the flavor, making it irresistible.

To use it, just coat your chicken cubes with the spice blend before making kebabs. This will make the meat taste amazing. Whether you grill, bake, or air fry, this spice blend will make your dish unforgettable.

Ingredient	Amount
Brown Sugar	2 tablespoons
Smoked Paprika	1 tablespoon
Kosher Salt	1 teaspoon
Chili Powder	1 teaspoon
Dried Minced Onion Flakes	1 teaspoon
Garlic Powder	1 teaspoon
Dried Thyme	1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper	1/4 teaspoon

With this spice blend, you’ll make the most delicious BBQ chicken kebabs. Impress your family and friends with this secret ingredient!

BBQ Chicken Kebabs Recipe – Step by Step

Making tasty BBQ chicken kebabs is easy and fun. It brings together juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and sweet pineapple. Let’s explore how to make these tasty skewers step by step.

Meat Preparation

Start by coating chicken pieces with olive oil and homemade spice rub. Rub the seasoning into the chicken evenly. Then, wrap smoky bacon slices around the chicken. This makes the kebabs look good and taste great.

Assembly Instructions

Place bacon-wrapped chicken, colorful bell peppers, onion wedges, and pineapple chunks on sturdy skewers.
Put ingredients on skewers in a pattern for even cooking and looks.
Make sure ingredients are tight on skewers to stay in place while grilling.

By following these steps, you’ll make delicious BBQ chicken kebabs. They will impress everyone at your table.

Creating the Perfect Homemade BBQ Sauce

Take your grilled chicken kebabs to the next level with homemade tangy barbecue sauce. This easy-to-make condiment is a secret weapon for your tangy barbecue sauce. With just a few ingredients, you can make a homemade condiment perfect for summer gatherings.

Start by mixing 1 cup of ketchup, 1/4 cup of dark brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, and 2 tablespoons of molasses in a saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of prepared mustard, and 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder. Season with black pepper and red pepper flakes to taste.

Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the butter melts and the sauce is heated through, about 5-7 minutes. This results in a thick, tangy barbecue sauce with a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavor.

Ingredient	Amount
Ketchup	1 cup
Dark brown sugar	1/4 cup
Apple cider vinegar	2 tablespoons
Molasses	2 tablespoons
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Onion powder	1 teaspoon
Garlic powder	1 teaspoon
Prepared mustard	1 teaspoon
Chili powder	1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper	To taste
Red pepper flakes	To taste

This homemade condiment is perfect for grilled chicken kebabs, adding a burst of flavor. Brush it on during the last few minutes of grilling to caramelize the sauce. This creates a mouthwatering glaze on the tangy barbecue sauce-coated chicken. Impress your guests with this grilling sauce that will elevate your backyard barbecue.

Grilling Techniques for Juicy Kebabs

To get the perfect char-grilled finish on your BBQ chicken kebabs, you need to manage your grill well. Paying close attention to timing is key. Follow these essential grilling techniques to make sure your kebabs are juicy and delicious.

Temperature Control

Grill your chicken kebabs over medium-high heat. Keep the temperature around 350 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat is important for a great grill management and even cooking. It helps you achieve a tasty char-grilled finish.

Timing and Rotation Tips

Grill the kebabs for 8-11 minutes, turning them every few minutes. This ensures even cooking on all sides.
Baste the kebabs with your homemade BBQ sauce during the last few minutes. This lets the sauce caramelize and add a rich, flavorful glaze to the meat.
Use tongs or a grill fork to rotate the kebabs. Avoid constantly poking and prodding them. This can cause uneven cooking and moisture loss.

By controlling the grill temperature and carefully rotating your kebabs, you’ll get a perfectly char-grilled finish. Your kebabs will be juicy and full of flavor every time.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Don’t worry if you can’t grill outside. You can still make tasty oven-broiled kebabs or indoor grilling alternatives. These methods let you enjoy the smoky taste of barbecue chicken kebabs without grilling.

Broiling Kebabs in the Oven

Broiling kebabs in the oven is quick and easy. Heat your oven to 450°F. Place the rack near the heat. Put chicken and veggies on skewers and broil for 10-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes.

Using a Stovetop Grill Pan

Another way is to use a stovetop grill pan. Heat the pan over medium-high. Add the skewered chicken and veggies. Grill for 8-12 minutes, turning often, until the chicken is done. This might make more smoke, so open a window.

Both oven broiling and stovetop grill pan methods can give you great results. You can enjoy oven-broiled kebabs and indoor grilling all year, no matter the weather.

Cooking Method	Temperature	Cooking Time
Oven Broiling	450°F	10-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes
Stovetop Grill Pan	Medium-high heat	8-12 minutes, rotating frequently

For great results with indoor grilling or stovetop options, watch the temperature and time. Adjust as needed to get juicy and tasty oven-broiled kebabs every time.

Tips for Wrapping Bacon on Kebabs

Improving your bacon-wrapped chicken kebabs starts with the right bacon wrap. Wrap the bacon in a “C” shape around the chicken before skewering. This keeps the bacon in place and cooks evenly with the chicken.

Choose center-cut bacon for the best results. It has a consistent thickness and texture when grilling with bacon.

Securing Techniques

When kebab assembly, wrap each chicken piece in bacon, overlapping the ends. This creates a snug “C” shape. It keeps the bacon in place and allows it to baste the chicken as it cooks.

Use a toothpick to secure the bacon if needed. But remember to remove it before serving.

Cooking Considerations

When cooking bacon-wrapped chicken, adjust the grilling time. The bacon takes longer to crisp up than the chicken. Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat, turning them occasionally.

Continue cooking until the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy. This should take about 8-10 minutes total.

“The key to perfectly cooked bacon-wrapped chicken kebabs is all in the technique. Wrapping the bacon in a ‘C’ shape ensures it clings to the chicken and cooks evenly, resulting in a delicious and visually appealing dish.”

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
15 minutes	8 minutes	23 minutes	6

Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions

These BBQ chicken kebabs are perfect for meal prep. You can make them 1-2 days before and keep them in the fridge. They’re great for busy nights or weekend parties. Just grill them right before serving for the best taste.

Leftover kebabs can stay in the fridge for 4 days. To reheat, put them in a hot oven or on the grill. This keeps them moist and flavorful.

These BBQ chicken kebabs are amazing for meal prep and leftovers. With a bit of planning, you can enjoy them anytime.

Vegetable and Fruit Combinations

Exploring kebab variations opens up a world of flavors. You can add color and taste to your colorful skewers with fresh veggies and grilled fruits. Try zucchini, yellow squash, and cherry tomatoes for a pop of color. Swap pineapple for mango or peaches for a fruity twist.

Combining different textures and colors makes your kebabs both beautiful and tasty. For example, zucchini’s crunch pairs well with pineapple’s sweetness. Or, mix bell peppers with grilled apple slices for a savory and tart mix. The choices are endless to make your kebab variations stand out.

Vegetable	Fruit
Zucchini	Pineapple
Yellow Squash	Mango
Cherry Tomatoes	Peaches
Bell Peppers	Apple

Try out different mixes to find your family’s top kebab variations. The bright colors and varied textures will make your meals both stunning and delicious.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Make your BBQ chicken kebabs even better by adding classic summer sides. Try them with fresh corn, creamy potato salad, or crisp coleslaw. Place the skewers on a big platter and offer extra BBQ sauce for dipping.

For a colorful touch, top the kebabs with parsley or cilantro. This adds color and flavor. Remember, these kebabs can be messy, so enjoy them with your hands and savor every bite!

Perfect Pairings

Grilled Corn on the Cob
Creamy Potato Salad
Tangy Coleslaw
Fresh Arugula Salad
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread

Presentation Tips

Put the BBQ chicken kebabs on a big platter. Leave space to show off the colors and textures. Drizzle with homemade BBQ sauce and garnish with parsley or cilantro. Serve extra sauce and plenty of napkins for a fun dining experience.

Side Dish	Description
Grilled Corn on the Cob	Sweet and charred kernels that complement the savory kebabs.
Creamy Potato Salad	A cooling contrast to the smoky, tender chicken and vegetables.
Tangy Coleslaw	A crisp and refreshing side that balances the richness of the kebabs.
Fresh Arugula Salad	A light and peppery salad that cleanses the palate between bites.
Homemade Whole Wheat Pita Bread	A versatile accompaniment that can be used for dipping or wrapping the kebabs.

“Embracing the art of kebab plating can truly elevate your summer BBQ experience.”

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Grilling BBQ chicken kebabs can sometimes be tricky. But, with the right tweaks, you can fix common problems and enjoy tasty kebabs. Here are some tips to help you overcome common kebab issues.

Uneven Cooking

Uneven cooking often happens when pieces are different sizes. Make sure to cut all ingredients into similar sizes. This ensures everything cooks evenly, preventing some parts from drying out.

Sticking to the Grill

Sticking is a common issue when grilling kebabs. To avoid this, oil the grill grates well before adding skewers. Brushing skewers with oil before grilling also helps. If sticking persists, try using a grill basket or foil to protect the kebabs.

Burning or Browning Too Quickly

If your kebabs brown too fast, adjust the grill temperature. Lower the heat or move skewers to a cooler spot. This helps the inside cook without burning the outside.

Undercooked Chicken

It’s important to cook chicken to 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety. If chicken is still pink, keep grilling until it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature.

By tackling these common grilling problems, you’ll get better at making delicious BBQ chicken kebabs. A few simple changes can make your kebabs juicy and flavorful every time.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

Make your BBQ chicken kebab experience even better by trying out different variations and ingredient swaps. These simple changes can meet various dietary needs, cooking levels, and taste preferences. This way, your grilled dishes will please everyone’s taste buds.

Protein Swaps

Try using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier kebab.
Try pork tenderloin or shrimp for a different protein option.
For a vegetarian kebab, use firm tofu or a variety of mushrooms instead of chicken.

Flavor Variations

Add a spicy twist by mixing in cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce.
Use a honey-based or maple-infused barbecue sauce for a sweeter flavor.
Try adding aromatic herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for a savory taste.

This recipe is all about being flexible. Try out different kebab alternatives, make dietary modifications, and explore many flavor variations. This way, you can create your own special BBQ chicken kebabs. Enjoy the endless options and let your creativity in the kitchen shine.

“The possibilities for customizing this recipe are endless. I love experimenting with different protein sources, veggies, and seasoning blends to create truly unique and memorable kebabs.”

Conclusion

BBQ Chicken Kebabs are a hit for any summer grilling favorite. They have a tasty spice rub, crispy bacon, and a tangy BBQ sauce. This mix of flavors and textures is perfect for any meal.

These kebabs are great for both outdoor grilling and cooking indoors. They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. They’re sure to become a favorite in your family.

The versatile BBQ recipe is easy to make and can be customized. You can change up the veggies and fruits or try different cooking methods. They’re perfect for a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner.

With some skill and creativity, you can make these kebabs truly special. So, get ready to impress your loved ones with these amazing BBQ Chicken Kebabs. Fire up the grill and enjoy!

FAQ

What makes BBQ Chicken Kebabs a unique grilling recipe?

BBQ Chicken Kebabs are special because they mix spice-rubbed chicken, bacon, and homemade barbecue sauce. This mix creates a dish that’s both tasty and visually appealing, perfect for summer gatherings.

What are the key ingredients in BBQ Chicken Kebabs?

The main ingredients are chicken breast, bacon, bell peppers, red onion, pineapple, and a special spice blend. These ingredients make the skewers flavorful and colorful.

What essential equipment is needed to make BBQ Chicken Kebabs?

You’ll need metal or wooden skewers, a basting brush, tongs, a grill or broiler pan, and a sharp knife for cutting. These tools help prepare and cook the kebabs.

How should the chicken and other ingredients be prepared for the kebabs?

Use boneless chicken breast or thighs cut into 1/2 to 1-inch pieces. Choose fresh veggies like bell peppers and red onions, and pineapple chunks. Wrap the chicken in bacon for a good balance of meat and fat.

What goes into the flavorful spice rub for the chicken?

The spice rub includes brown sugar, smoked paprika, kosher salt, chili powder, and more. These ingredients make the chicken taste great and create a tasty crust when grilled.

How is the homemade BBQ sauce made for the kebabs?

To make the BBQ sauce, mix ketchup, brown sugar, molasses, cider vinegar, and spices. This sauce is rich and tangy, enhancing the flavor of the grilled kebabs.

What are the best grilling techniques for juicy, evenly cooked BBQ Chicken Kebabs?

Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat for 8-11 minutes, turning often for even cooking. Baste with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes to add flavor and texture.

Can BBQ Chicken Kebabs be made without an outdoor grill?

Yes, you can broil them in the oven for 10-15 minutes or use a stovetop grill pan. But outdoor grilling is best for that perfect char-grilled finish.