These Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers are sweet with a little kick! The chicken gets juicy and smoky from the grill, while the honey makes it irresistible.
Honestly, who can resist grilled chicken on a stick? I love making these for summer barbecues. They’re quick to whip up, and the honey-chipotle combo is a big hit with everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and tender, perfect for skewers. You can use chicken breasts instead, but they may dry out faster. If you’re looking for a different protein, try shrimp or firm tofu for a tasty twist.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken on the grill. If you’re vegan or looking for a lower-calorie option, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup. Just remember it may change the flavor slightly!
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: These add a smoky, spicy kick. If you can’t find them, try using smoked paprika for a milder flavor or a little hot sauce if you want some heat.
Soy Sauce: The soy adds saltiness and depth. For a gluten-free option, choose tamari or coconut aminos. Both are great substitutes and provide a similar umami flavor.
Cilantro: It brightens the dish at the end. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, fresh parsley or green onions can be used instead for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
One of the most important steps is marinating the chicken. This not only adds flavor but also keeps the chicken tender. Make sure to cut your chicken into evenly-sized cubes, about 1 to 1.5 inches. This helps them cook evenly.
- Mix marinade thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken gets coated well.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least an hour, but overnight gives the best flavor. Just make sure it’s covered in the fridge!
When grilling, don’t overcrowd the skewers; give the pieces some space for even cooking. And remember to baste during the last few minutes for extra flavor and moisture.
How to Make Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
- 1/2 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20-30 minutes of prep time and at least 1 hour of marinating time in the refrigerator. Allow around 10-12 minutes for grilling. Total time is about 1.5 hours, but you can marinate overnight for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This will prevent them from burning up on the grill!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, minced chipotle peppers, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Keep mixing until everything is well combined and deliciously fragrant!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Cut the chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes and toss them into the marinade. Mix well to ensure every piece is coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or even better, overnight for the ultimate flavor boost.
4. Prepare the Grill:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a grill pan indoors, heat that over medium heat. We want a nice hot surface for searing!
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get that lovely, charred flavor.
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Remember to turn them frequently to get even cooking. You can check that they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For added flavor, baste with any leftover marinade during the last few minutes of cooking!
7. Serve:
Once grilled, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top before serving to add a pop of color and taste.
8. Enjoy:
Serve your flavorful Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers with your favorite side dishes like grilled veggies, rice, or a refreshing salad. Savor the smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors that make this dish a crowd-pleaser!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts in this recipe! Just keep in mind that breasts can become dry if overcooked, so be sure to monitor the cooking time closely, aiming for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re juicy.
What Can I Substitute for Chipotle Peppers?
If you can’t find chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, you can use smoked paprika combined with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a similar smoky heat. Start with 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika and adjust to taste, keeping in mind that cayenne adds heat!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Absolutely! Marinating overnight enhances the flavor even more. Just make sure to cover the chicken well in the fridge to keep it fresh and prevent any cross-contamination.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave them for a quick meal, or warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Enjoy them cold on a salad, too!
