Irresistible BBQ Chicken Skewers for Graduation & Memorial Day

BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day are the kind of dish that can turn any gathering into a fiesta of flavors. Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken marinated in a sweet and tangy sauce, skewered alongside vibrant bell peppers and onions, all kissed by the smoky essence of the grill. The aroma wafts through the air like an irresistible invitation, making your mouth water and your heart race with anticipation. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

Picture this: it’s a sunny day, laughter fills the air, and your family is gathered around the grill for a graduation celebration. As you serve up these BBQ chicken skewers, everyone’s eyes light up with joy. Memories like these remind us that food isn’t just about sustenance; it’s about connection, celebration, and creating moments that linger long after the last bite. So fire up that grill and prepare for an explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • These BBQ chicken skewers are super easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy gatherings
  • The sweet and tangy marinade delivers a flavor explosion that will impress everyone
  • Their colorful presentation makes them visually appealing on any table setting
  • Versatile enough for graduation parties or Memorial Day cookouts, they suit any occasion beautifully

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best, but feel free to adjust based on your guest list.

  • Bell Peppers: A mix of red and yellow adds vibrant color and sweetness to offset the savory chicken.

  • Red Onion: Cut into chunks for a slight bite and sweetness when grilled.

  • Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for richness in flavor while keeping it healthy.

  • Honey: Adds natural sweetness to balance out the spices in the marinade.

For the Marinade:

  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium is preferred here to prevent overly salty skewers while still providing umami depth.

  • Garlic Powder: A must-have spice for that aromatic kick without worrying about chopping garlic.

  • Smoked Paprika: Gives a lovely smoky flavor reminiscent of outdoor grilling even if you’re cooking indoors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Whisk until well blended. Cube your chicken breasts and toss them into this marinade. Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least an hour—longer if you can wait (like overnight).

Step 2: Prepare Your Veggies

While waiting impatiently (we’ve all been there), chop those bell peppers and red onion into chunks—roughly one-inch pieces work best. They should be big enough to hold their shape on the skewer without falling apart.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Grab some skewers—wooden ones soaked in water (to prevent burning) or metal ones if you’re feeling fancy! Thread your marinated chicken pieces alternating with colorful veggies until everything is nicely packed together but not overcrowded.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

Fire up that grill! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Make sure grates are clean; nobody wants charred remnants of last week’s burgers ruining these beauties.

Step 5: Grill Time!

Place your skewers gently on the grill. Grill each side for about 5-7 minutes until they develop beautiful grill marks and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serve with Style

Transfer those sizzling skewers onto a platter like a pro! Drizzle with any leftover marinade or your favorite dipping sauce for that extra oomph.

Now gather around as you take pride in presenting these BBQ chicken skewers—perfectly charred morsels ready to steal the show at your graduation or Memorial Day celebration!

You Must Know

  • This BBQ chicken skewers recipe offers more than just a delightful flavor; it’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for any gathering
  • You can easily mix and match ingredients based on your pantry
  • The vibrant colors and smoky aroma make it visually stunning on the grill
  • Ideal for graduation celebrations or Memorial Day picnics!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve the ultimate BBQ chicken skewers, start by marinating your chicken for at least 30 minutes. While it marinates, soak the wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Once ready, thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers and grill them until they reach that beautiful charred perfection.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize these BBQ chicken skewers to suit your taste! Substitute chicken with shrimp or veggies for a different twist. Experiment with various marinades like teriyaki or lemon herb, and add pineapple chunks or bell peppers for extra flavor and color.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover BBQ chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them on a grill or skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they retain their juicy goodness without drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly grilled BBQ chicken skewers, make sure to cut your chicken into even pieces for uniform cooking
  • Always preheat your grill to get those tasty grill marks
  • Don’t rush—let the marinated chicken soak up those flavors before grilling!

Sometimes, I whip up BBQ chicken skewers when friends drop by unexpectedly. One time, my buddy exclaimed that they were better than his mom’s secret recipe! Now that’s a compliment worth grilling over!

FAQs :

What are BBQ Chicken Skewers?

BBQ chicken skewers are a delightful dish often enjoyed at gatherings like graduations and Memorial Day celebrations. They consist of marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers, grilled to perfection. You can customize the marinade with various spices, herbs, and sauces to enhance flavor. These skewers are perfect for outdoor cooking, as they cook quickly and are easy to serve. Whether you prefer sweet or spicy marinades, BBQ chicken skewers offer versatility to suit any palate. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.

How do I prepare the chicken for BBQ Skewers?

Preparing chicken for BBQ skewers involves several simple steps. First, choose boneless chicken breasts or thighs for juiciness. Cut the meat into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Marinate the chicken in your desired sauce for at least 30 minutes to infuse flavors. Skewer the marinated pieces onto soaked wooden or metal skewers. This preparation method ensures that your BBQ chicken skewers will be flavorful and moist when grilled.

Can I use vegetables with my BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Absolutely! Adding vegetables to your BBQ chicken skewers not only enhances flavor but also adds color and nutrition. Popular choices include bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes. When pairing vegetables with chicken, cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. Alternating between chicken and veggies on the skewer creates a vibrant dish that appeals to both kids and adults alike during celebrations like graduation or Memorial Day.

What dipping sauces pair well with BBQ Chicken Skewers?

Dipping sauces can elevate your BBQ chicken skewers significantly. Consider serving them with classic options like ranch dressing or tangy barbecue sauce for a traditional taste. For a zesty kick, try garlic aioli or spicy sriracha mayonnaise. If you prefer something sweeter, honey mustard or teriyaki sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken. Offering a variety of sauces allows guests at your gathering to customize their experience.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day :

BBQ chicken skewers are an excellent addition to any graduation or Memorial Day celebration. Their ease of preparation and ability to cater to diverse tastes make them a favorite among guests. With simple steps to marinate and skewer the chicken alongside vibrant vegetables, you’ll create a delicious dish that’s not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor. Remember to provide a selection of dipping sauces for added enjoyment, ensuring everyone has a memorable culinary experience at your event!

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BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day


  • Author: Ethan Brooks
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

BBQ Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and vibrant addition to any gathering, perfect for celebrations like graduations and Memorial Day. Tender boneless chicken breasts marinated in a delightful sweet and tangy sauce are skewered with colorful bell peppers and red onions, then grilled to perfection. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also adds a festive touch to your outdoor events, making it the ideal choice for summer cookouts.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red and yellow)
  • 1/2 cup red onion
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions

  1. 1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Cube the chicken and toss it in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  2. 2. Prepare Veggies: Chop bell peppers and red onion into roughly one-inch chunks.
  3. 3. Assemble Skewers: Thread marinated chicken and veggies onto soaked wooden or metal skewers.
  4. 4. Preheat Grill: Heat grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C).
  5. 5. Grill Skewers: Cook skewers for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked (165°F/75°C internal temperature).
  6. 6. Serve: Present on a platter with any leftover marinade drizzled on top.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 150g)
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 24g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: - Soak wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. - Customize by adding shrimp or pineapple for extra flavor. - Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

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