Irresistible BBQ Chicken Skewers for Graduation & Memorial Day

BBQ Chicken Skewers are like little bundles of joy on a stick, bursting with flavors that dance on your taste buds. Imagine tender chicken marinated in a smoky glaze, grilled to perfection, and served up at your graduation party or Memorial Day barbecue. The aroma wafting through the air is so tempting that even your neighbor’s cat might show up uninvited.

Every time I make these BBQ Chicken Skewers, I’m reminded of my cousin’s graduation party where they stole the show. Picture a sun-drenched backyard, laughter filling the air, and the grill sizzling away while we all tried to look cool despite the heat. As I handed out skewers to my friends, it felt like I was giving them tiny pieces of happiness—juicy chicken, perfectly charred veggies, and that magical BBQ sauce that makes everyone do a happy dance.

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts for this recipe; cut into cubes for optimal grilling.

• Bell Peppers: Grab an assortment of colorful bell peppers; they add crunch and sweetness to each skewer.

• Red Onion: A few chunks provide a wonderful sweetness when grilled; plus, they look fabulous next to those rainbow peppers.

• Zucchini: Slice it into thick rounds; zucchini gets tender and delicious when it’s kissed by the flames.

For the Marinade:

• Olive Oil: This will help keep your chicken moist and add flavor; use extra virgin for a richer taste.

• Balsamic Vinegar: A splash adds depth and tanginess that pairs beautifully with grilled food.

• Honey: Sweeten up your marinade with honey; it caramelizes nicely during grilling.

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for flavor; it brings warmth without overpowering the other ingredients.

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

How to Make BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined. This marinade is going to give your chicken that “I can’t stop eating” factor.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken breasts into the marinade. Toss everything together until all pieces are coated with love (and sauce). Cover with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—if you have more time, even better!

Step 3: Chop Your Veggies

While your chicken takes a flavorful bath in the marinade, chop those vibrant bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into bite-sized pieces. Choose colors that make your heart sing because eating should be fun!

Step 4: Assemble Your Skewers

Grab some skewers (wooden or metal) and start threading alternating pieces of marinated chicken and veggies onto them. Leave a little space between each piece so they can get all crispy on the grill.

Step 5: Fire Up The Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.

Step 6: Grill Those Skewers

Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes total, turning occasionally until your chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C). Don’t forget to brush on any leftover marinade for an extra kick!

Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional BBQ sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy those glorious BBQ Chicken Skewers at your graduation party or Memorial Day feast—trust me, they’ll be the life of the party!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken skewers first on high heat to get those beautiful grill marks. While they sizzle, prepare your favorite sides like grilled veggies or a refreshing salad. This way, everything comes together in perfect harmony.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Add spices like smoked paprika or cumin for an extra kick, and toss in colorful bell peppers and onions for an eye-catching presentation.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, place the skewers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through without drying out.

The first time I made BBQ chicken skewers, my friends couldn’t stop raving about them! We enjoyed them at a summer barbecue, and I felt like a culinary genius when they asked for seconds—and thirds!

FAQs :

What are BBQ Chicken Skewers made of?

BBQ Chicken Skewers typically consist of marinated chicken pieces threaded onto skewers. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for a juicy texture. The marinade often includes ingredients like olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and your favorite spices. Some recipes also incorporate vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for added flavor and color. These skewers are perfect for grilling at gatherings like graduations or Memorial Day celebrations. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken for BBQ Chicken Skewers?

For the best flavor in your BBQ Chicken Skewers, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to 2 hours. If you have more time, marinating overnight in the refrigerator enhances the taste even more. Make sure to seal the marinade well to prevent contamination. However, avoid marinating too long as the acids in some marinades can make the chicken mushy. Enjoy deliciously tender skewers at your next outdoor event!

Can I use other proteins for skewers?

Absolutely! While this recipe focuses on BBQ Chicken Skewers, you can experiment with various proteins such as shrimp, beef, or pork. Each protein requires different marinating times and cooking temperatures. For instance, shrimp cooks faster than chicken and only needs about 15-30 minutes of marinating time. Beef may require longer depending on the cut you choose. Mix and match your favorites to create a diverse skewer platter perfect for any celebration.

What side dishes pair well with BBQ Chicken Skewers?

BBQ Chicken Skewers go well with numerous side dishes that complement their smoky flavor. Consider serving them alongside a fresh coleslaw or a light potato salad for balance. Grilled corn on the cob or a seasonal vegetable medley also adds color and nutrition to your meal. For a fun twist, consider including dips like tzatziki or barbecue sauce to elevate the experience at your graduation or Memorial Day gathering.

Conclusion for BBQ Chicken Skewers – Graduation or Memorial Day :

BBQ Chicken Skewers are an ideal dish for celebratory occasions such as graduations and Memorial Day gatherings. Their easy preparation and delicious flavors make them a crowd favorite. Remember to marinate your chicken properly and choose complementary sides to enhance your meal experience. With these skewers on your menu, you’ll impress guests while enjoying a stress-free outdoor cookout. Celebrate with these delightful skewers that add both taste and excitement to any occasion!

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BBQ Chicken Skewers

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 42 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delectable treat that brings excitement to any gathering. Juicy marinated chicken is paired with vibrant veggies and grilled to perfection, making these skewers an easy and visually appealing option for celebrations like graduations and Memorial Day. With a tantalizing smoky glaze, they are sure to impress your guests at your next outdoor feast.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (3–4 pieces), cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add cubed chicken to the marinade and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. While chicken marinates, chop the vegetables.
4. Thread alternating pieces of marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (375°F). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling.
6. Grill skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 360mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Customize with different vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu for variety. For added flavor, brush skewers with leftover marinade while grilling. Let skewers rest for a few minutes before serving for juicier bites.