Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers are a simple and delicious way to enjoy juicy pieces of chicken coated in a sticky, smoky barbecue sauce. The skewers get those perfect grill marks, adding a little char that boosts the flavor even more. They’re colorful, fun to eat, and packed with a tangy, sweet kick from the BBQ sauce.
I love making these skewers for casual get-togethers or quick weeknight dinners because they come together so easily and cook fast. I usually marinate the chicken for a bit to soak up all the flavors, then grill them while chatting with friends or family. It’s always a crowd-pleaser, and the smell alone makes everyone hungry before the skewers even hit the table.
One of my favorite ways to serve these is alongside a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables to keep things light and balanced. If you want to add a little extra, a side of corn on the cob or some baked potatoes makes a great match. These skewers remind me of lazy summer nights and good times spent outside, making them a meal full of happy memories.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Using boneless, skinless breasts makes for quick, lean skewers. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat.
BBQ Sauce: A good BBQ sauce ties the whole dish together. Use your favorite store-bought brand or make your own. For a different twist, try spicy or honey BBQ sauces.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a mild smoky flavor without needing a smoker. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder will work too.
Honey: It’s optional but gives a lovely glaze and sweetness. Maple syrup or agave syrup are great alternatives if you want a different sweet touch.
How Do You Grill Chicken Skewers So They Stay Juicy and Don’t Stick?
Grilling chicken skewers evenly without drying out or sticking is key. Here’s how:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to lock in moisture and flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high to get good sear marks quickly.
- Oil the grill grates lightly or brush the chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Leave some space between pieces on the skewers to allow even heat flow.
- Cook 5-6 minutes per side without moving too often to get nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check chicken is done (165°F/74°C) without overcooking.
- Rest skewers for a few minutes off the heat to let juices redistribute before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill – I recommend a charcoal or gas grill for the best smoky flavor and even cooking.
- Skewers (bamboo or metal) – Bamboo skewers should be soaked beforehand to prevent burning. Metal ones last forever!
- Tongs – for turning the skewers easily and brushing on BBQ sauce.
- Basting brush – helps spread the honey or extra sauce smoothly over the chicken.
- Brush or paper towels – for oiling the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or chunks of firm fish like salmon for seafood skewers.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onions, or pineapple on the skewers for extra color and flavor.
- Use a spicy BBQ sauce or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a heat boost.
- Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime or chopped cilantro for a fresh, zesty touch.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for extra glaze and sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
- Steamed broccoli, for serving
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare (including marinating the chicken pieces) plus about 12 minutes of grilling. Don’t forget to soak bamboo skewers for at least 30 minutes before starting. Allow a few extra minutes for resting the chicken once it’s grilled. All together, plan for about 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add your cut chicken pieces and toss well so each piece is coated in the marinade. Cover and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the flavors.
2. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
While your chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you are using bamboo skewers, make sure they have soaked in water for 30 minutes to stop them from burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces on the skewers, spacing them evenly with a little gap between each piece.
3. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes on one side, letting nice grill marks form. Flip the skewers over and generously brush the chicken with BBQ sauce. Grill for another 5 to 6 minutes, brushing more BBQ sauce every few minutes. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), with a slight char for extra flavor.
4. Add a Sweet Finish (Optional) and Serve:
For a glossy, caramelized touch, brush the skewers with honey during the last 2 minutes of grilling. When done, remove them from the grill and let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes to keep it juicy. Serve the skewers over cooked white rice with some steamed broccoli on the side. Don’t forget to offer extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Skewers?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken first for even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or use the cold water bath method in a sealed bag. Pat dry before marinating to avoid excess moisture.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the grill to keep the chicken juicy and prevent it from drying out.
What Can I Substitute for BBQ Sauce?
You can use teriyaki sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce if you want a different flavor profile. Just brush it on as you would the BBQ sauce during grilling.
Can I Make Chicken Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Marinate the chicken and thread the skewers a few hours ahead or even the day before. Keep them covered in the fridge and grill just before serving for maximum freshness.