As I flipped through my favorite cookbooks, a delightful aroma of smoky sweetness transported me right to backyard barbecues under the sun. It was then I realized, what better way to capture that nostalgic essence than with these Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers? This recipe perfectly marries the juicy tenderness of chicken thighs with a quick and simple homemade marinade, leading to an effortless crowd-pleaser that even novice grillers can master! Plus, they’re totally adaptable—think gluten-free tweaks or refined sugar-free options that keep health-conscious friends happy. Ready to elevate your grilling game and impress your guests? Let’s dive into the joys of skewering and savor the flavors of summer together!

Why Are These Skewers a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: Each bite of these Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers is bursting with a delicious blend of sweetness and smokiness that your taste buds will adore.

Ultimate Versatility: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or try different proteins like shrimp. This dish accommodates various dietary needs, including a gluten-free option!

Quick and Easy: The marinade comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings—your friends will think you spent hours.

Crowd-Pleaser: With their appealing presentation and mouthwatering flavors, these skewers are sure to be the star of your summer barbeque, just like our popular Bbq Chicken Coleslaw or Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles.

Health-Conscious Friendly: Want a refined sugar-free option? Simply swap honey for maple syrup, making this dish a guilt-free treat that everyone can enjoy!

BBQ Chicken Skewers Ingredients

For the Marinade

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs (1.5 lbs) – Perfect for juiciness; substitute with chicken breasts if desired but adjust grilling time accordingly.
Olive Oil (0.25 cup) – Adds moisture and richness; feel free to use avocado oil as a neutral alternative.
Ketchup (0.33 cup) – Provides sweetness and depth; opt for low-sugar ketchup for a healthier choice.
Apple Cider Vinegar (2 tbsp) – Brings acidity for a balanced flavor; you can swap it for lemon juice if needed.
Honey (2 tbsp) – Delivers natural sweetness; replace with maple syrup for a refined sugar-free version.
Soy Sauce (2 tbsp) – Enhances umami flavors; use tamari as a gluten-free alternative.
Minced Garlic (2 cloves) – Adds aromatic depth; always choose freshly minced for the best taste.
Smoked Paprika (1 tsp) – Infuses a delicious smoky flavor; regular paprika stands in if smoked is unavailable.
Onion Powder (0.5 tsp) – Adds savory notes to the marinade; diced fresh onions can also be incorporated on the skewers.
Black Pepper (0.25 tsp) – Contributes mild heat; freshly ground is recommended for more flavor.
Chili Flakes (0.25 tsp, optional) – Introduces an extra kick; omit for a milder version.

For the Skewers

Bell Pepper (1 large) – Adds color, crunch, and pairs well with chicken; any bell pepper color will do.
Red Onion (1) – Adds sweetness and texture; green onions can be a lighter alternative for a fresh twist.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, your BBQ Chicken Skewers will not only shine but also deliver that delightful summer taste everyone loves!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of olive oil, ⅓ cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 2 tablespoons of honey, and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce until smooth. Then, add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and optional ¼ teaspoon of chili flakes. Mix well to create a deliciously sticky marinade for your BBQ Chicken Skewers.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken
Pat 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs dry and place them into the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade into a resealable bag. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator to enhance flavor, but for the best results, aim for up to 8 hours before grilling.

Step 3: Assemble Skewers
While the chicken marinates, prepare your skewers by soaking wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Once the chicken is ready, alternate threading marinated chicken pieces, vibrant bell pepper chunks, and onion slices onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking and beautiful presentation.

Step 4: Preheat Grill
It’s time to get your grill ready! Heat your grill to medium-high, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). Use an oiled paper towel to lightly coat the grill grates, preventing the skewers from sticking. Preparing your grill properly is crucial for achieving those tantalizing grill marks on your Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers.

Step 5: Grill Skewers
Place the assembled skewers on the grill without moving them, allowing them to cook for 5-7 minutes until they develop a nice char. Gently flip the skewers and continue grilling for an additional 5-7 minutes. In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, baste with some leftover marinade to create a delicious glaze on your BBQ Chicken Skewers.

Step 6: Check for Doneness
To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, check that your BBQ Chicken Skewers have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. Once cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute for juicy, flavorful bites.

How to Store and Freeze BBQ Chicken Skewers

Fridge: Store cooked BBQ Chicken Skewers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready for a quick meal or snack!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight bag. They can keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To regain that delicious char texture, reheat frozen skewers in an oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, they can be warmed gently on the grill.
Marinade Storage: If you have leftover marinade, store it in the fridge for up to a week or freeze it in ice cube trays for a quick flavor boost in future dishes!

Expert Tips for BBQ Chicken Skewers

Marinade Timing: Ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes but no more than 8 hours. This balances flavor absorption without affecting chicken texture.
Grill Heat Control: Avoid high flames to prevent burning the marinade. Medium to medium-high heat is ideal for achieving perfect char without charring the skewers.
Meat Thermometer: Always use a meat thermometer for doneness; chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). This helps avoid the common mistake of undercooked meat.
Veggie Varieties: Feel free to mix in different vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and crunch. Just ensure they are cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
Basting Tips: Apply the leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling. This creates a flavorful glaze while minimizing the risk of burning it on the grill.

By following these tips, your BBQ Chicken Skewers will turn out delicious every time!

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers are perfect for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance by combining all the marinade ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator. Additionally, marinate the chicken in advance for up to 8 hours to enhance flavor and tenderize the meat. For best results, assembly can also be done a few hours ahead; just keep the assembled skewers covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. When it’s time to serve, simply preheat the grill and cook the skewers as directed. This makes it easy to enjoy delicious BBQ Chicken Skewers without the last-minute rush!

BBQ Chicken Skewers Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play around with these variations to make the Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers your own!

Dairy-Free: Skip any dairy ingredients entirely; this recipe is naturally dairy-free and still full of flavor!
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free marinade, ensuring everyone can enjoy these skewers.
Refined Sugar-Free: Replace honey with pure maple syrup for a deliciously sweet, refined-sugar-free option that everyone will love.
Extra Veggies: Add colorful veggies like zucchini or cherry tomatoes to the skewers for extra texture and nutrients while enhancing the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Stir in some chipotle sauce or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a fiery twist that will thrill spicy food lovers.
Alternative Proteins: Swap out chicken for shrimp or tofu to cater to different dietary preferences or simply to mix things up.
Smoky Flavor Boost: If you don’t have smoked paprika, try adding a dash of liquid smoke for that irresistible smoky taste.
Char Siu Style: For an Asian twist, substitute the marinade with a mix of honey, soy sauce, and five-spice powder to give your skewers a Char Siu flair! You might also enjoy this with our Char Siu Chicken recipe.

Experimenting with these tweaks can bring a delightful new flavor to your BBQ Chicken Skewers, ensuring that every grilling occasion is a fresh experience!

What to Serve with Sticky Sweet BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Indulge in a complete meal experience that elevates your summer gatherings and tantalizes your taste buds.

Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing side that balances sweetness; its crunchy texture complements the tender skewers beautifully.
Grilled Corn on the Cob: Perfectly charred corn adds a smoky sweetness that harmonizes with the BBQ flavors, enhancing the summer vibe.
Cucumber Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes bring a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich, sticky skewers—truly a delightful duo.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery slices provide a comforting addition while soaking up the lingering BBQ sauce from the skewers.
Potato Salad: Creamy and hearty, this side dish works wonderfully alongside the smoky skewers, creating a nostalgic picnic feel.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly and zesty drink elevates the meal, cutting through richness while keeping guests refreshed and happy.
Watermelon Slices: Juicy, sweet slices of watermelon offer a perfect palate cleanser between savory bites and keep the meal light.
Peach Crisp: End the meal on a sweet note with this warm dessert, its juicy fruit echoing summer’s essence and pairing elegantly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for skewers?
Absolutely! For the juiciest BBQ Chicken Skewers, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken thighs. They provide excellent moisture during grilling, giving you that perfect tender bite. If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute with chicken breasts but do keep an eye on them as they can dry out if overcooked.

What’s the best way to store leftover BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Very! Cooked BBQ Chicken Skewers can be stored in an airtight container in your refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness, and if you’re not going to eat them within that timeframe, consider freezing them for longer preservation.

Can I freeze BBQ Chicken Skewers? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze them! To freeze your BBQ Chicken Skewers, first, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about 1-2 hours until firm, then transfer them into an airtight freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in an oven set to 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or gently warm on the grill.

What should I do if my skewers start to burn on the grill?
If you notice that your BBQ Chicken Skewers are burning, it’s typically due to high grill heat. First, check that you’re using medium heat, ideally around 400°F (200°C). You can also move them to a cooler side of the grill to finish cooking gently. Additionally, you can baste the skewers with marinade during the last few minutes, which brings extra flavor and helps mitigate burning.

Are BBQ Chicken Skewers suitable for my gluten-sensitive friends?
Definitely! To make gluten-free BBQ Chicken Skewers, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, which is a gluten-free alternative. This allows everyone to enjoy delicious skewers without worry. Always double-check the labels of other ingredients like ketchup to ensure they meet gluten-free standards too.

How long can I marinate the chicken in the marinade?
You can marinate the chicken for a minimum of 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate, but no more than 8 hours to ensure the chicken doesn’t lose its firm texture. For a better experience, aim for marinating around 2-4 hours for the best flavor infusion without compromising quality.