Savory BBQ Chicken Skewers

Name: Savory BBQ Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes; 1/2 cup barbecue sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden or metal skewers

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I absolutely love making Savory BBQ Chicken Skewers for gatherings and weeknight dinners. The combination of tender, marinated chicken with a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce brings so much flavor and satisfaction. These skewers are incredibly easy to prepare, and they grill to perfection in just a matter of minutes. Whether you serve them as a hearty appetizer or a main dish alongside sides, they're always a hit. Trust me, your family and friends will be asking for seconds!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:21:28.222Z

I remember the first time I made these BBQ chicken skewers; they disappeared within minutes at my backyard barbecue. The secret lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it juicy during grilling. I always use a mix of sweet and smoky barbecue sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully.

One tip I’ve learned is to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. This extra step really makes a difference, ensuring your delicious chicken stays intact and beautifully presented on the plate.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and smoky flavors that tantalize your taste buds
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights
Great for grilling parties or casual family dinners

Maximizing Flavor with Marinades

Marinating the chicken is essential for infusing flavor deep into the meat. The combination of olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder in the marinade not only enhances the taste but also ensures the chicken stays moist during grilling. If you're short on time, even 15 minutes can make a noticeable difference, but for the best results, marinate for up to 2 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate more thoroughly. Just remember to keep it covered in the refrigerator while it marinates to prevent any contamination.

When it comes to barbecue sauce, seek out a brand that balances sweetness with tanginess. If you prefer a homemade option, mixing ketchup with apple cider vinegar and brown sugar can yield a fantastic alternative. Remember that the timing when you apply the sauce during grilling is just as important; while some sauce is added early, the final glaze should only be brushed on during the last few minutes of grilling. This keeps the sauce from burning and allows it to form a lovely, sticky glaze.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Skewers

Preheating the grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving that beautifully charred exterior without overcooking the chicken inside. I often suggest a surface temperature of around 375°F to 450°F, which ensures the skewers cook evenly. Place the skewers perpendicular to the grill grates to prevent them from falling through, and keep an eye on them during the cooking process—flipping them every couple of minutes will promote even cooking and prevent sticking to the grill.

If you’re using metal skewers, there's no need to soak them, but make sure to choose ones that are wide enough to prevent the chicken from spinning when you turn them. Wooden skewers can burn if not submerged; soaking them for at least 30 minutes mitigates this issue. A helpful tip: if your chicken is sticking, it might be a sign that it’s not cooked enough yet. Wait a moment longer before attempting to turn it.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create delicious BBQ chicken skewers:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
1/2 cup barbecue sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden or metal skewers

Once you have gathered all these ingredients, you're ready to start preparing your skewers!

Instructions

Follow these steps to grill perfect BBQ chicken skewers:

Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, mix the chicken cubes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add half of the barbecue sauce and stir to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. Brush with the remaining barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Serve

Once the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred, remove the skewers from the grill. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Enjoy your delicious BBQ chicken skewers with friends and family!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers and onions to the skewers. They not only add color but enhance the dish with their grilled sweetness.

Storage and Make-Ahead Options

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the marinated chicken separately for future grilling sessions. To do this, place the marinated pieces in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. They'll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to use, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before skewering and grilling—this helps maintain the chicken’s texture and flavor.

For a make-ahead option, consider preparing the skewers fully before grilling. Assemble the skewers a day in advance, store them covered in the refrigerator, and grill them right before serving. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. Just ensure they are at room temperature before grilling, as cold meat doesn’t cook evenly.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Savory BBQ Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile, making them an excellent option for various side dishes. They pair beautifully with a refreshing coleslaw or a light garden salad, which balances the richness of the chicken. If you're feeling indulgent, serve them with grilled vegetables or a creamy potato salad for a more substantial meal.

You can also enhance the flavor experience by serving different dipping sauces on the side. A simple ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo pairs wonderfully, allowing guests to customize their bite. For an extra touch of brightness, a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right before serving can elevate the flavor profile, making it even more delicious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will add more flavor and tenderness to the skewers. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace chicken with tofu or cubed vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the grill.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.