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The Best Quick Honey Bourbon BBQ Chicken Skewers

honey bourbon BBQ chicken skewers - featured image
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These honey bourbon BBQ chicken skewers are quick, easy, and perfect for weeknights. With a sweet and smoky glaze, they come together in about 25 minutes and are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 3 tablespoons (45ml) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) bourbon (or whiskey)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) bourbon (for glaze)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, 2 tablespoons honey, 2 tablespoons bourbon, minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper to make the marinade.
  2. Cut chicken thighs into 1-inch cubes, pat dry, and add to the marinade. Toss to coat and let sit for 10 minutes.
  3. In a small saucepan, combine ketchup, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon bourbon, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside for basting and serving.
  4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for at least 20 minutes first), leaving a small gap between pieces.
  5. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C). Lightly oil the grates.
  6. Grill skewers for 4 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes. During the last 2 minutes, brush with glaze, turning to coat both sides.
  7. Check for doneness: internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) or juices run clear.
  8. Transfer skewers to a platter, let rest for 2-3 minutes, then brush with reserved glaze. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Reserve about a third of the glaze before basting to use for serving. For best results, don’t overcrowd skewers and apply glaze only during the last 2 minutes of cooking to prevent burning. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: honey bourbon BBQ chicken skewers, quick chicken skewers, grilled chicken skewers, weeknight dinner, easy barbecue

Find it online: https://ovenmila.com/the-best-quick-honey-bourbon-bbq-chicken-skewers/