BBQ Chicken Skewers

BBQ Chicken Skewers Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 45 minutes | Cooking time: 8 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

BBQ Chicken Skewers are a timeless classic that combines the juicy, tender flavors of chicken with the smoky, charred taste of barbecue. This recipe takes a simple approach to a beloved dish, incorporating a marinade of lime juice, garlic, spices, and beer to infuse the chicken with an irresistible flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or a casual weekend meal, these skewers are sure to delight everyone at the table.

History

The tradition of cooking meat on skewers has roots in many cultures around the world, dating back thousands of years. The concept of barbecue chicken skewers, as we know them today, likely evolved from these ancient cooking methods. Over time, various spices and marinades have been introduced to enhance the flavor of the chicken, making it a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit different tastes and occasions.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) boneless skinless chicken breast halves
2 tbsp fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tbsp ground red chili pepper
1 tsp crushed oregano or thyme
0.5 tsp garlic powder
0.5 tsp salt
2 tbsp canola (or other) oil
1 jalapeño chile, seeded and minced (wear gloves)
0.5 to 0.75 cup beer

How to prepare

Cut the chicken into strips that are 0.38 inches wide, and place them in a shallow glass dish.
Combine all the ingredients and stir until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
Pour the mixture over the chicken and toss to coat well. Cover the dish and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours, stirring the mixture occasionally.
Soak 8 skewers (10-12 inches in length) in cold water for 20 minutes to prevent them from burning. Then, drain the skewers.
Prepare the grill for direct cooking.
Drain the chicken, but reserve the marinade. Weave 3 to 4 chicken strips accordion-style onto each skewer. Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them over medium-hot coals, uncovered, for 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken is no longer pink, turning the skewers halfway through the grilling time.

Variations

Consider adding pineapple chunks, bell peppers, or onions to the skewers for added flavor and color. For a spicier kick, increase the amount of jalapeño or add a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your BBQ Chicken Skewers turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate deeply.

- Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling to prevent them from burning.

- Keep the grill at a medium-hot temperature to cook the chicken evenly without burning the outside.

- Brush the chicken with the reserved marinade during grilling for extra flavor.

- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to retain its juices.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these BBQ Chicken Skewers with a side of grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light couscous dish for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling is the preferred cooking method for this recipe, as it imparts a smoky flavor that complements the marinade. However, these skewers can also be cooked under a broiler or on a grill pan if outdoor grilling is not an option.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a non-alcoholic version, replace the beer with chicken broth or pineapple juice. If canola oil is not available, olive oil makes a suitable substitute. For those avoiding alliums, omit the garlic and use a garlic-free spice blend.

Make Ahead Tips

The chicken can be marinated up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to develop more fully. Skewers can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Presentation Ideas

Arrange the skewers on a platter garnished with lime wedges and fresh herbs. Serve with small bowls of extra marinade or a yogurt-based dipping sauce for added flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp beer or a citrusy white wine pairs beautifully with the flavors of these BBQ Chicken Skewers. For a non-alcoholic option, consider a lime-infused sparkling water.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a covered skillet over low heat or in the microwave, being careful not to overcook the chicken.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of BBQ Chicken Skewers contains approximately 180 calories, making it a moderate-calorie option that can fit into various dietary plans.

Carbohydrates

This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the primary sources being lime juice and beer. The total carbohydrate content per serving is approximately 4 grams, making it a suitable option for low-carb diets.

Fats

The total fat content in this recipe comes mainly from the canola oil used in the marinade. Each serving contains about 5 grams of fat, with less than 1 gram of saturated fat, making it a lean option for those monitoring their fat intake.

Proteins

Chicken is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Each serving of these BBQ Chicken Skewers provides approximately 26 grams of protein, contributing to muscle growth and repair.

Vitamins and minerals

This recipe is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6 from the chicken, vitamin C from the lime juice, and various antioxidants from the spices used in the marinade.

Alergens

The primary allergens to be aware of in this recipe include gluten from the beer and alliums from the garlic. Those with sensitivities should look for gluten-free beer options or omit the beer altogether.

Summary

Overall, BBQ Chicken Skewers are a nutritious, protein-packed dish that is low in carbohydrates and fats. They provide a good mix of vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy choice for a main course.

Summary

BBQ Chicken Skewers are a versatile, delicious, and nutritious dish that can be enjoyed on many occasions. With a balance of flavors and a high protein content, they offer a satisfying meal that can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to be a hit.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to make. It was a warm summer day and I was visiting my friend Mary's house for a barbecue. As soon as I walked into her backyard, I could smell the delicious aroma of grilled meat wafting through the air. Mary greeted me with a smile and handed me a skewer loaded with juicy chunks of BBQ chicken. One bite and I was hooked.

I begged Mary for the recipe, but she just laughed and said it was a family secret passed down through generations. Determined to crack the code, I set out on a mission to recreate the mouth-watering BBQ chicken skewers in my own kitchen.

I started by researching different marinades and rubs, trying out different combinations of spices and sauces until I found the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. I experimented with different cooking methods, testing out grilling, baking, and broiling until I achieved the perfect charred exterior and tender interior that I remembered from Mary's barbecue.

After countless trial and error sessions, I finally cracked the code and perfected my own version of BBQ chicken skewers. The secret, I discovered, was in the marinade. A blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika gave the chicken a depth of flavor that was simply irresistible.

I shared my newfound recipe with friends and family, who all raved about the delicious BBQ chicken skewers. Word spread quickly, and soon I found myself hosting backyard barbecues for neighbors and friends eager to taste my famous dish.

As the years passed, I continued to refine my recipe, adding new twists and variations to keep things interesting. I experimented with different types of BBQ sauce, from sweet and tangy to spicy and smoky, each one adding a unique flavor profile to the dish.

But no matter how many times I tweaked the recipe, the magic of those BBQ chicken skewers remained the same. They were a labor of love, a reminder of that warm summer day at Mary's house when I first tasted the dish that would become my signature recipe.

I often think back to that day, grateful for Mary's inspiration and the journey it set me on. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, a way to bring people together and create lasting memories. And every time I fire up the grill and skewer those marinated chicken pieces, I'm transported back to that moment of discovery, when I knew I had stumbled upon something truly special.

So here's to BBQ chicken skewers, a recipe that holds a special place in my heart and on my grill. May they bring joy and deliciousness to all who taste them, just as they have for me and my loved ones over the years. Cheers to good food, good friends, and good memories made around the table.