Description
These Healthy BBQ Chicken Skewers offer a juicy, flavorful option perfect for summer grilling or an easy weeknight dinner. Marinated in a simple, low-sugar homemade BBQ sauce and grilled until tender, the skewers are high in protein, naturally gluten-free, and versatile for pairing with grilled vegetables, salads, or brown rice.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup low-sugar BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Soaking Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Make Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat each piece. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours to enhance flavor.
- Thread Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning every 2 to 3 minutes to ensure even cooking. Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Glaze: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, brush the skewers with additional BBQ sauce if desired for extra flavor and moisture.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Notes
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or pineapple between chicken pieces for extra flavor and color.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- These skewers can also be cooked in a grill pan or under the broiler if a grill is unavailable.
- Use your favorite healthy or homemade BBQ sauce to control sugar and sodium content.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
