If you’re craving a juicy, smoky, and flavorful chicken dish, then these Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are exactly what you need! The tender chicken pieces are marinated in a delicious honey BBQ sauce, skewered with crispy bacon, and grilled to perfection. This dish is a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings, summer BBQs, or a quick weeknight dinner.
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Why You’ll Love These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs offer a unique twist on classic grilled chicken. The honey BBQ marinade provides a perfect balance of sweetness and tang, while the crispy bacon adds a savory, crunchy texture that elevates the dish. They’re quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion. Plus, these kabobs can be customized with your favorite vegetables or additional toppings.
Ingredients for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
To make these kabobs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast or Thighs: Tender, juicy chicken that will absorb the BBQ marinade beautifully.
- Bacon: Adds a crispy and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the BBQ sauce.
- Honey: Provides sweetness that balances the tangy BBQ sauce.
- BBQ Sauce: The base of the marinade, giving the kabobs that rich, smoky flavor.
- Olive Oil: Helps in grilling and adds moisture to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder: For a savory depth of flavor.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the taste and complements the BBQ seasoning.
- Paprika: Adds smokiness to the marinade.
- Salt & Pepper: Season to taste.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
• Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: If you prefer darker meat, chicken thighs are a great option, as they tend to stay juicier on the grill.
• Turkey Bacon: For a leaner option, you can swap regular bacon for turkey bacon.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with marinated tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly kabob.
• Spicy BBQ Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add chili flakes to the marinade.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. If using chicken breasts, remember to remove any excess fat.
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for the best flavor.
- Prep the Bacon: Cut the bacon into thirds. If you prefer crispy bacon, you can pre-cook the bacon for a few minutes before adding it to the kabobs.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Alternate threading the marinated chicken and bacon onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve: Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Make sure to space out the kabobs on the grill to ensure even cooking. If necessary, grill in batches.
• Marinate Longer for More Flavor: For maximum flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for a few hours or overnight.
• Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked to 165°F.
• Add Veggies: For an even more vibrant kabob, include vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini.
Pairing Ideas and Variations
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are perfect when paired with a variety of side dishes:
• Crispy Potato Wedges: Serve alongside crispy, golden potato wedges for a comforting meal.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw pairs wonderfully with the smoky BBQ flavors.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add some grilled corn on the cob or a vegetable medley to your plate for a colorful and nutritious side.
If you’re looking for variations, try adding pineapple chunks to the skewers for a sweet, tropical twist.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
These kabobs are great for meal prep or make-ahead meals:
• Make-Ahead: You can marinate the chicken and assemble the kabobs up to 24 hours before grilling.
• Storage: Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated on the grill or in the oven for a quick meal.
Enjoy these Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs as a savory, smoky dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these kabobs are packed with irresistible flavors!
Conclusion
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are the perfect combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich BBQ marinade, they’re sure to become a favorite for your next grilling session. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ, preparing a family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, these kabobs are quick, delicious, and customizable. Don’t forget to pair them with your favorite sides like crispy potato wedges or fresh coleslaw for a complete meal. Enjoy the irresistible flavor of these kabobs that bring everyone to the table!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for the kabobs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs for this recipe. However, chicken breasts are leaner and may dry out faster on the grill. Make sure to monitor the cooking time, as chicken breasts usually take a bit longer to cook through. Consider marinating them longer for added moisture.
Can I make these kabobs in the oven?
Absolutely! If you’re unable to grill, you can bake these kabobs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for that perfect crispy bacon finish.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover grilled honey BBQ bacon chicken kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs on a grill or in the oven for a few minutes until heated through. You can also shred the leftover chicken and use it in wraps or salads for another meal.
More Relevant Recipes
PrintGrilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Tender pieces of chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful BBQ marinade come together for a delicious, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 lbs skinless boneless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 slices of bacon, cut into thirds
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- In a bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it to the marinade. Toss well to coat. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Thread the marinated chicken and bacon onto skewers, alternating between chicken and bacon.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is crispy.
- Remove from the grill and let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer, substitute chicken breasts with thighs for juicier kabobs.
- You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for added flavor and color.
- For a spicier version, use a spicy BBQ sauce or add chili flakes to the marinade.
- To bake these in the oven, preheat to 400°F and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob
- Calories: 352 kcal
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 705 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0.04 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 45 g
- Cholesterol: 215 mg
