These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty meal! With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning all threaded on skewers, they’re perfect for grilling.
If you think about it, bacon makes everything better! I love serving these with some veggies on the side for a colorful plate. Quick, delicious, and loved by everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Cubed chicken breast is lean and works well in these kabobs. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use thighs for more flavor or even turkey breast if you prefer. Just note that cooking times may vary.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta could work. Just remember, the texture will be a bit different but still tasty!
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is super convenient. For a homemade version, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and ranch seasoning mix. You can also use a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter twist.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika bring great flavor. If you like heat, try smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. Fresh minced garlic and onions can also be great alternatives!
How to Grill Kabobs Without Them Sticking?
Grilling kabobs can be tricky if they stick to the grill. Here’s how to avoid that sticky situation:
- Preheat your grill: Make sure it’s hot enough before adding the kabobs. This helps create a barrier and prevents sticking.
- Oil the grill bars: Just before placing the kabobs on, brush some oil on the grill grates or spray them lightly. This helps the kabobs release easily.
- Turn gently: Use tongs to turn the kabobs instead of a fork. This keeps the bacon intact and helps with even cooking.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep, and you’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. After that, grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes from start to finish, with just half of that being hands-on time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by placing the cubed chicken breast in a mixing bowl. Add the ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt to the chicken. Stir everything together until the chicken is fully coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to soak up all the yummy flavors.
2. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, go ahead and preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help your kabobs cook evenly and get that perfect char.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Take one piece of marinated chicken and wrap it with half a slice of bacon. Carefully thread it onto a skewer. Repeat this process until you’ve used all the chicken and bacon. Make sure to leave a little space between the pieces on the skewer for even cooking.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the heated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure all sides get nice and crispy. You want the chicken cooked through and the bacon to be golden brown and crispy.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and serve them hot. Don’t forget to offer extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a hit, and you’re sure to enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with pork tenderloin or shrimp for an alternative. Just be mindful of the cooking times: shrimp will cook much faster, usually just 5-7 minutes on the grill, while pork may require a bit longer to reach safe cooking temperatures.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick substitute by mixing together plain yogurt or sour cream with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and a little lemon juice for tang. This will give you a creamy base that works great with the spices in the recipe.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in the oven at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes or until warmed through. This will help keep the bacon crispy!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! Simply preheat your oven to 400°F. Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the bacon is crispy. This is a great alternative if grilling isn’t an option!
