Description
Juicy, smoky chicken skewers marinated in buttermilk and coated in a sticky-sweet BBQ glaze. This stress-free recipe is perfect for summer gatherings and cooks in under an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup sweet and smoky BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into 1.5-inch cubes and place in a large bowl.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and vegetable oil.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, toss to coat, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- While chicken marinates, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl to create the glaze.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C) and oil the grates.
- Grill skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking and char marks.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush skewers generously with the BBQ glaze and allow it to caramelize.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F. For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper to the marinade. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer per person
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 15
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: BBQ chicken skewers, Labor Day dinner, summer grilling, easy chicken recipe, buttermilk marinade, grilled skewers, family dinner