Few dishes capture the spirit of outdoor cooking and casual gatherings quite like BBQ chicken skewers. These colorful, mouthwatering kabobs combine tender chunks of marinated chicken with fresh vegetables, grilled to perfection over an open flame or cooked conveniently indoors. Whether you’re a backyard grill master or a kitchen cook, this recipe will help you create the best barbecue chicken kabobs with a delicious twist — a smoky bacon marinade that elevates every bite.
In this detailed guide, you’ll discover everything you need to know about making perfect chicken kabobs — from marinating tips and skewer assembly to grilling techniques on various setups like the pellet grill, oven, or traditional barbecue. Plus, we’ll explore flavor-packed variations such as Cowboy Chicken Skewers and share serving ideas to make your meal unforgettable.
So, grab your skewers and fire up your grill or oven, because these BBQ chicken kabobs on the grill will soon become your go-to recipe for all occasions!
Why Chicken Kabobs Are a BBQ Favorite
Chicken kabobs have become a staple for grilling enthusiasts because of their versatility and convenience. The bite-sized pieces cook quickly and evenly, and the combination of chicken and vegetables makes for a balanced, visually appealing meal.
The secret to truly great kabobs lies in the marinade. Our special bacon marinade adds a layer of smoky, savory goodness to the chicken that’s hard to beat. The bacon flavor seeps deep into the meat, ensuring every bite bursts with umami richness and mouthwatering juiciness.
Plus, kabobs are perfect for social eating — threaded onto sticks, they’re easy to handle and share. Whether you’re hosting a summer party or looking for a healthy weekday dinner, barbecue chicken kabobs fit the bill.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Chicken Skewers
Before diving into the recipe, let’s cover what you’ll need:
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs — Thighs provide more moisture and flavor, but breasts are leaner.
- Bell peppers (red and green), cut into chunks
- Red onion, quartered
- Zucchini, sliced thick
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, pineapple chunks (for a tropical twist)
The Star: Bacon Marinade
- 4 slices cooked bacon, finely chopped or crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce — Adds saltiness and depth
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar — For tang and tenderizing
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar — For subtle sweetness and caramelization
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika — Brings smoky aroma and color
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Step-by-Step: Making the Bacon Marinade
1. Cook and Prepare Bacon
Start by frying your bacon slices until crisp. Drain on paper towels to remove excess fat, then finely chop or crumble them. This crispy bacon will infuse your marinade with smoky flavor and texture.
2. Mix Marinade Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add Bacon Pieces
Stir in the crumbled bacon until evenly distributed. The bacon pieces not only flavor the chicken but also cling to it during grilling for added texture.
4. Marinate the Chicken
Add your cubed chicken to the bowl, tossing to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours — overnight is even better. The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender your chicken kabobs will be.
Assembling Your BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Once marinated, it’s time to assemble your skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
- Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with chunks of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini.
- Leave a little space between pieces so the heat circulates evenly and smoke can flavor every side.
- For a richer experience, you can even wrap some chicken cubes in bacon strips before skewering.
Cooking Techniques for BBQ Chicken Kabobs
BBQ Chicken Kabobs on the Grill
Grilling over direct heat is the classic method for BBQ chicken kabobs on the grill. Preheat your grill to medium-high (around 375-400°F). Place the skewers on the grates, cooking for 10-12 minutes total. Turn every 3-4 minutes to ensure even charring and prevent burning.
Watch closely for flare-ups caused by dripping marinade and fat, and move kabobs to a cooler part of the grill if necessary. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Chicken Kabobs on Pellet Grill
A pellet grill offers a unique advantage by combining charcoal’s smokiness with precise temperature control. Set your pellet grill to 350°F, place the skewers on the grate, and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
The slow, steady heat helps the chicken absorb deep smoke flavors without drying out, making chicken kabobs on pellet grill a top choice for barbecue aficionados.
BBQ Chicken Kabobs in the Oven
Don’t have a grill? No worries! You can easily cook your kabobs in the oven. Preheat to 425°F and arrange skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet or wire rack.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once. To replicate the grill’s charred flavor, switch your oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Variations: Cowboy Chicken Skewers and More
Cowboy Chicken Skewers
Want a rustic, bold version? Try Cowboy Chicken Skewers:
- Add chunks of smoked sausage or wrap some chicken pieces with bacon before skewering.
- Spice it up with grilled jalapeños or add a dash of cayenne powder to your marinade.
- Brush generously with smoky BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of grilling for that sticky, caramelized finish.
Serve with baked beans, grilled corn on the cob, and a fresh slaw for a true cowboy feast.
Other Flavorful Grilled Chicken Kabobs Recipes
- Mediterranean Kabobs: Use lemon juice, oregano, garlic, and olive oil in the marinade. Add cherry tomatoes and Kalamata olives to skewers.
- Asian Style: Mix soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil with a touch of brown sugar for your marinade. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
- Tropical BBQ Kabobs: Incorporate pineapple chunks and a marinade of pineapple juice, soy sauce, and ginger for a sweet and tangy treat.
Each of these grilled chicken kabobs recipes can be adapted with your favorite ingredients and seasonings.
Serving Suggestions for Your BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Complete your meal with sides that complement the smoky, savory flavors:
- Rice pilaf or couscous with fresh herbs
- Grilled vegetables like asparagus, corn, or eggplant
- A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Pita bread or warm flatbreads
- Dipping sauces like tzatziki, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo
For a hearty meal, serve alongside baked potatoes or creamy coleslaw.
Tips for Juicy, Flavorful BBQ Chicken Kabobs
- Marinate long: The bacon marinade needs time to penetrate the meat.
- Don’t overcrowd: Give pieces breathing room on skewers.
- Turn regularly: Prevent burning and get an even char.
- Use a thermometer: Avoid overcooking; 165°F internal temp is safe.
- Let rest: Rest skewers 5 minutes after cooking for juicy bites.
- Soak wooden skewers: Prevent flare-ups and burning.
Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Absolutely! Thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful, making them ideal for kabobs.
Q: Can I freeze marinated chicken?
A: Yes, marinate and freeze chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before grilling.
Q: Can I make BBQ chicken kabobs in the oven?
A: Yes! See above instructions for bbq chicken kabobs in the oven — it’s a great alternative when grilling isn’t possible.
Q: How do I avoid kabobs sticking to the grill?
A: Oil your grill grates and the skewers before cooking. Also, don’t move the skewers too early to allow searing.
The Magic of the Bacon Marinade: Why It Works
The bacon marinade combines the smoky essence of bacon with the savory umami of soy sauce and the sweet balance of honey or brown sugar. Smoked paprika deepens the flavor and adds color, while apple cider vinegar tenderizes the chicken and brightens the overall taste.
Cooking the bacon first intensifies the smokiness and adds crispy bits that cling to the chicken during grilling, giving a unique textural contrast.
BBQ Shish Kabobs Recipes: What’s the Difference?
You might wonder about bbq shish kabobs recipes versus chicken kabobs. The term “shish kabob” originates from Middle Eastern cuisine, referring generally to skewered and grilled meat or vegetables. BBQ chicken kabobs are essentially a Western take on the concept, often with added barbecue flavors and marinades.
Both are great, but “shish kabobs” might include lamb, beef, or a mix of vegetables and meats, whereas BBQ chicken kabobs focus mainly on chicken and BBQ-inspired flavors.
Bringing It All Together: BBQ Chicken Kabobs On The Grill and Beyond
No matter your preferred cooking method — bbq chicken kabobs on the grill, the pellet grill, or in the oven — this recipe delivers consistently delicious results. The key is the smoky bacon marinade, quality fresh ingredients, and mindful cooking techniques.
These skewers are perfect for impressing guests, satisfying hungry family members, or treating yourself to a smoky, savory delight with simple preparation.
Printable Recipe Card: BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Wooden skewers, soaked for 30 minutes
Directions:
- Prepare bacon marinade by whisking olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir in crumbled bacon.
- Marinate chicken cubes for at least 2 hours.
- Thread chicken and vegetables alternately onto skewers.
- Preheat grill or oven to 375-400°F (or 425°F for oven).
- Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning every few minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F.
- For oven, bake 15-20 minutes, turning once, then broil 2-3 minutes for char.
- Rest 5 minutes before serving.
Ready to Grill? Here’s Your Shopping List!
- Chicken (breast or thigh)
- Bacon
- Fresh vegetables (bell peppers, onion, zucchini)
- Pantry staples: olive oil, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper
- Skewers
Final Words
Whether you call them barbecue chicken kabobs, bbq shish kabobs, or just grilled chicken kabobs recipes, the joy of cooking and eating them remains unmatched. Thanks to the irresistible bacon marinade and versatile cooking methods, you can enjoy juicy, smoky chicken kabobs anytime, anywhere.
Give this recipe a try, and watch how these flavorful skewers become a star at your table — perfect for casual family dinners, summer cookouts, or festive gatherings.
