Get ready for these tasty honey chipotle grilled chicken skewers! These juicy bites are sweet, spicy, and full of flavor that will make your taste buds dance.
Grilling is my favorite way to cook, and these skewers are a hit at every BBQ. Pair them with a side salad, and you’ve got a yummy meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breast. It’s lean and cooks evenly. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a great alternative as they stay juicier. You can even use shrimp or tofu for a different twist!
Honey: Honey gives a nice sweetness, but maple syrup is a good substitute if you need a vegan option. Agave syrup or brown sugar mixed with a bit of water can also mimic the sweetness.
Chipotle Peppers: These add a smoky heat. If unavailable, try using a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a less spicy flavor or a dash of cayenne pepper for more heat. Adjust to your personal taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best for flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic.
Cilantro: While cilantro adds freshness, you can use parsley or green onions as a substitute if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken skewers can be tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have perfectly grilled chicken. First, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat; this helps in getting those nice grill marks and cooking the chicken evenly.
- Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes to prevent burning, which helps them last through the grilling process.
- Leave a little space between chicken pieces on the skewers. This allows heat to circulate and cooks them evenly.
- Cook each side for 5-7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Brush on any leftover marinade during the last few minutes to add extra flavor without risking contamination from raw chicken.
Letting the chicken rest for a minute after grilling before you serve can help keep it juicy. Enjoy your skewers!
How to Make Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients, 30 minutes to marinate the chicken, plus grilling time of about 15 minutes. All together, it’s around 55 minutes of delicious fun in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which should be about 375-400°F. This will ensure the chicken gets a nice sear and those lovely grill marks.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, and minced garlic. Add ground cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s well mixed. This is where all the delicious flavor comes from!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Make sure they are well coated with the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or if you have time, up to 2 hours for even more flavor.
4. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. After soaking, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, being sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly!
5. Grill the Chicken:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be cooked through and to have beautiful grill marks. If you have any leftover marinade, brush it on the chicken during the last few minutes of cooking for extra flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle them with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve your tasty skewers with a side of your choice and any remaining honey chipotle sauce for dipping. Enjoy!
Can I Use Skinless Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Skinless chicken thighs will add a bit more flavor and moisture to the skewers. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken breast so they cook evenly.
What Can I Use Instead of Honey?
If you need a substitute for honey, you can use agave syrup or maple syrup for a similar sweetness. Just keep in mind that agave is a little sweeter, so you might want to use slightly less. Adjust to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a skillet or in the microwave until warmed through. They’re also great cold in salads!
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can! Feel free to prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken right before you’re ready to grill. This will save you time and enhance the flavor of your dish!
