Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Skewers (Print version)
Marinated honey garlic BBQ chicken skewers grilled to a caramelized, juicy finish — great for summer gatherings.
# What you'll need:
→ Meats
01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
→ Marinade & Sauce
02 - 1/3 cup honey
03 - 1/3 cup soy sauce (use gluten-free if desired)
04 - 3 tablespoons barbecue sauce
05 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
06 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
07 - 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
10 - 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
→ Vegetables (optional, for skewering)
11 - 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
12 - 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
13 - 1 red onion, cut into wedges
# How to make it:
01 - In a medium mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, barbecue sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, black pepper, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Whisk thoroughly to blend.
02 - Set aside 1/4 cup of the prepared marinade in a separate container for basting during grilling or as a finishing sauce.
03 - Add cubed chicken to the marinade. Toss to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for enhanced flavor absorption.
04 - If using wooden skewers, soak in water for a minimum of 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
05 - Thread marinated chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion alternately onto skewers. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
06 - Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (approximately 400°F). Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking.
07 - Place assembled skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes and basting with reserved marinade, until chicken is fully cooked and nice grill marks form.
08 - Transfer skewers to a serving platter and serve hot. Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley or toasted sesame seeds.
# Expert suggestions:
01 -
- Each bite is a perfect harmony of sticky, caramelized glaze and juicy chicken that actually soaks up the flavors.
- This marinade doubles as a basting sauce, and it's the easiest way to get everyone excited about basic ingredients.
02 -
- I once rushed the marinating step and wondered why the chicken seemed less flavorful—the full hour really is worth it.
- Saving a bit of marinade for basting changes everything—it boosts the glaze and adds gorgeous color.
03 -
- Keep the grill lid closed between turns for even cooking and to lock in smoky flavor.
- Whisking the marinade extra well keeps the honey from settling and gives every skewer that perfect shine.