Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers Tasty and Simple Meal
Looking for a quick and tasty meal that everyone will love? You’ve found it with Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers! This simple recipe features juicy chicken, bold flavors, and colorful veggies, all cooked to perfection. I’ll show you the easy steps to create this delicious dish, perfect for any day. So, grab your skewers and let’s get started on a meal that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Marinade Components
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables for Skewering
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
When I make grilled BBQ chicken skewers, I love to keep it simple yet flavorful. The main ingredients start with fresh chicken breast. I cut it into cubes, so it cooks evenly. Next, I grab my favorite BBQ sauce. You can use store-bought or make your own for a more personal touch! Adding olive oil helps keep the chicken moist and adds richness.
For the marinade, I mix apple cider vinegar with spices. Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. Garlic powder adds a savory touch, while cumin, salt, and black pepper bring out the best in the chicken. This combination makes the chicken tender and tasty.
Now, let’s not forget the veggies! I love using colorful bell peppers and red onion. They not only taste great but also look beautiful on the skewers. The sweet bell peppers and the sharp onion create a lovely balance. You can use green bell peppers, too, for more color and flavor.
This recipe is all about bold flavors and fresh ingredients.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Marinating the Chicken
To start, you need to prepare the marinade. Mix the BBQ sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This mix gives the chicken a great flavor. Then, add your chicken cubes to the marinade. Make sure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, marinate for up to 2 hours. This longer time makes the chicken tastier.
Skewer Preparation
If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This keeps them from burning on the grill. If you have metal skewers, you can skip this step. After soaking, it’s time to assemble the skewers. Thread the marinated chicken, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion onto the skewers. Alternate between chicken and veggies for a colorful look.
Grilling Techniques
Before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Aim for about 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly. Cook the skewers on the grill for 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally. You want to see nice grill marks and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Brush on some extra BBQ sauce during the last few minutes for added flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Perfectly Grilled Chicken
To get evenly cooked chicken, cut your pieces the same size. I suggest making 1-inch cubes. This size helps them cook at the same rate. When grilling, turn the skewers every few minutes. This ensures all sides get nice grill marks. To check if your chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). This means it’s safe to eat.
Enhancing Flavor
Adding more BBQ sauce during grilling boosts the flavor. Brush it onto the chicken for the last few minutes of cooking. This gives the chicken a sticky, tasty glaze. When picking a BBQ sauce, consider your taste. A sweet sauce pairs well with the smoky flavors from the grill. If you like spice, try a hot BBQ sauce. This can add a kick to your meal.
Serving Suggestions
To make your meal look great, garnish the skewers with fresh parsley. This adds color and freshness. You can also serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. For a zesty touch, add lemon or lime slices. They bring balance to the rich flavors. Pair the skewers with rice, salad, or grilled corn. These sides complement the chicken and make your meal complete.
Variations
Different Protein Options
You can easily swap chicken for other proteins. Beef and shrimp are great choices. For beef, use tender cuts like sirloin or flank steak. Cut the meat into 1-inch cubes. Marinate it like chicken to keep it tasty. Shrimp cooks fast, so adjust cooking times. Grill shrimp for about 5-7 minutes, turning once. Both options add a nice twist to your skewers.
Vegetarian Skewers
If you want a meat-free option, try vegetarian skewers. Tofu works well as a protein source. Use firm tofu and press it to remove excess water. Cut it into cubes and marinate like chicken. You can also add assorted vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are delicious. Assemble them on skewers for a colorful dish. Grill for about 10 minutes, turning often.
Flavor Profile Changes
You can change the flavor of your skewers easily. Start with different BBQ sauces. Sweet sauces like honey or teriyaki add a nice touch. If you prefer heat, use spicy BBQ sauce or add hot sauce. You can also mix in fresh herbs and spices. Try basil, cilantro, or rosemary for added freshness. Spices like cayenne or chili powder can kick up the heat. These changes let you create a new dish each time.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers fresh, store them properly. Place the cooled skewers in an airtight container. Refrigerate them for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freezing is an option. Wrap the skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag. They can stay frozen for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have a few good options. The best method is to use an oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
You can also use a microwave. Place the skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep moisture. Heat in short bursts, checking often to avoid overcooking.
No matter how you reheat, keep an eye on the chicken’s texture. If you notice it gets dry, using a little extra BBQ sauce can help. This will add flavor and moisture back into your dish. Enjoy your leftovers with the same great taste!
FAQs
How do I ensure my chicken stays juicy?
To keep your chicken juicy, marinate it well. Use a mix of BBQ sauce, olive oil, and spices. The oil helps lock in moisture. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. You can go up to 2 hours for more flavor. When grilling, cook it over medium-high heat. This helps it cook fast without drying out. Always check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) when done.
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can swap in other veggies. Zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes work great. You can also try eggplant or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just make sure to cut them into pieces that match your chicken size. This way, they cook evenly. Mixing colors makes your skewers more fun and tasty!
What sides go well with Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers?
Many sides pair well with these skewers. Here are some favorites:
– Corn on the cob
– Coleslaw
– Potato salad
– Grilled asparagus
– Rice or quinoa
These sides add flavor and balance to your meal. You can even serve them with extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Feel free to mix and match to suit your taste!
You now know how to make tasty BBQ chicken skewers. We covered ingredients like chicken, sauce, and veggies. I shared steps on marinating, grilling, and serving. Don’t forget to try different proteins or make it vegetarian. Storing leftovers and reheating is easy too.
Grilling is fun and rewarding. Enjoy your skewers, experiment, and impress your friends. Happy cooking!
![- 4 salmon fillets (6 ounces each) - 1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred) - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon sesame oil The heart of this dish is the salmon. I love using fresh salmon fillets for their rich flavor and texture. They cook well and stay moist. For the sauce, soy sauce adds that umami punch. Low-sodium options are great if you want to cut down on salt. Honey gives a sweet touch, balancing the salty soy. Rice vinegar adds tang and depth. Fresh ginger and garlic bring warmth and spice to the marinade. - 2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish) - 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish) Garnishes can elevate your dish. Chopped green onions add color and a mild onion flavor. Sesame seeds give a nice crunch and nutty taste. They make the dish look beautiful too. - Cooked jasmine rice - Steamed vegetables I recommend serving the teriyaki salmon over fluffy jasmine rice. The rice soaks up the sauce perfectly. Steamed vegetables are great on the side. They add color, texture, and nutrients to your meal. This combo makes a full and balanced plate. For the complete cooking process, check the Full Recipe. To start, you need to whisk the marinade. In a medium bowl, combine: - 1/4 cup soy sauce - 1/4 cup honey - 2 tablespoons rice vinegar - 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon sesame oil Whisk them until smooth. This creates a sweet and salty blend. Next, marinate the salmon. Place the salmon fillets in a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over them. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For a stronger flavor, marinate up to 2 hours. Now, it’s time to bake. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for even cooking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This makes for easy cleanup. After marinating, take the salmon out. Reserve the marinade for later. Place the fillets skin-side down on the sheet. Bake the salmon for 12-15 minutes. It’s done when it flakes easily with a fork. While the salmon bakes, prepare the sauce. Pour the reserved marinade into a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes. This thickens the sauce nicely. Be careful not to over-reduce it. Once the salmon is ready, drizzle the thickened sauce on top. Garnish with: - Chopped green onions - Sesame seeds Now, serve your teriyaki salmon over fluffy jasmine rice for a complete meal. For the full recipe, check the section above. For the best teriyaki salmon, marination is key. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, go for 2 hours. This extra time allows the flavors to soak in. Balancing the flavors is also important. The soy sauce adds saltiness, while honey brings sweetness. Adjust these to fit your taste. You can even add a splash of lime juice for a zesty kick! You can cook the salmon in the oven or on the grill. If you use the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). For grilling, heat your grill to medium-high. Both methods yield tasty results. Just make sure not to overcook the salmon. Cook it until it flakes easily with a fork. This usually takes about 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. If grilling, check often to avoid dryness. When plating, keep it simple and elegant. Place the salmon on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice. Drizzle it with the thickened teriyaki sauce. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds for a pop of color. For sides, steamed vegetables work great. Try broccoli or snap peas for a fresh crunch. This makes your meal not just tasty but also beautiful! {{image_2}} You can swap out salmon for other fish. Try using trout or tilapia. Both have great flavors and cook well. For gluten-free options, use tamari instead of soy sauce. Tamari has a similar taste and works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use coconut aminos, a great soy sauce alternative. Want to change the taste? Add spices like black pepper or red pepper flakes. These spices give the dish a nice kick. You can also add citrus juice. Lime or lemon juice brightens up the flavors. Just mix it into the marinade for a fresh twist. You can grill the salmon for a smoky flavor. Just preheat your grill and cook the salmon for about 6-8 minutes each side. If you want a caramelized finish, try broiling. Place the salmon under a broiler for 2-3 minutes after baking. This gives a nice, crisp topping. This Easy Teriyaki Salmon recipe is flexible. Feel free to mix and match these ideas! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. To store leftovers, let the salmon cool to room temperature. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents strong smells. The shelf life in the fridge is about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to eat it later, remember to check for any signs of spoilage before enjoying. You can freeze cooked salmon for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, thaw the salmon overnight in the fridge. You can warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This helps keep the texture nice and flaky. Use airtight containers for storing salmon. This prevents air from getting in and keeps it fresh longer. Avoid leaving cooked salmon out at room temperature for too long. Proper storage helps retain its rich flavor and juicy texture. Enjoy your Easy Teriyaki Salmon at its best! For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. I recommend marinating teriyaki salmon for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to soak in. For a stronger taste, you can marinate it for up to 2 hours. Just don’t go over two hours, or the salmon may get too salty. Yes, you can use frozen salmon! Just be sure to thaw it first. To thaw, place the salmon in the fridge overnight. If you need it faster, seal it in a bag and submerge it in cold water for about an hour. After thawing, pat it dry before marinating. I love serving teriyaki salmon with fluffy jasmine rice. It soaks up the tasty sauce well. You can also pair it with steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. A fresh salad with a light dressing works great, too! Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas. In this post, we explored how to make easy teriyaki salmon using simple ingredients. We discussed key items like salmon fillets, soy sauce, honey, and fresh ginger. You learned step-by-step instructions for making the marinade, baking the salmon, and adding finishing touches. We also covered tips for perfecting the dish and how to customize it. Remember, you can store leftovers for later enjoyment. With these insights, you now have all the tools to create a delicious teriyaki salmon that impresses. Enjoy your cooking journey!](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/d319870b-f2b5-4b65-bbf7-0456604e94a9-768x768.webp)
