These Bourbon Bacon BBQ Chicken Kebabs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken pieces are wrapped in crispy bacon and coated in a sweet BBQ sauce with a hint of bourbon. Yummy!
Trust me, the combination of smoky bacon and BBQ flavor is mouthwatering. I love making these for cookouts and everyone always wants seconds, even if they just said they’re full! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts work best for juicy kebabs. If you prefer, thighs are an excellent alternative for more flavor. Just remember thighs take a little longer to cook through.
Bacon: Use thin or regular bacon for wrapping. If you’re avoiding pork, turkey bacon can work too! It might not be as crispy, but it will still add flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce or make your own. If you’re looking for a lower-sugar option, try a sugar-free BBQ sauce. I enjoy a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy twist!
Bourbon: If bourbon isn’t available, any whiskey works well. Alternatively, replace it with apple cider vinegar for tanginess, although you’ll miss the richness bourbon brings.
How Do I Get the Bacon Crispy Without Overcooking the Chicken?
Getting the bacon crispy while still cooking the chicken properly can be tricky. Here’s how I do it:
- Wrap chicken tightly with bacon but don’t overlap the bacon too much. This helps it cook evenly.
- Start grilling on medium heat with the lid closed. This traps heat and helps everything cook through without burning.
- Keep an eye on the grill and turn the kebabs often—this ensures even cooking and avoids flare-ups from the bacon fat.
- Brush the sauce in the last few minutes of grilling. This allows it to glaze without burning.
Following these steps should give you deliciously crispy bacon and perfectly cooked chicken kebabs! Enjoy your grilling! 🍗🥓
Bourbon Bacon BBQ Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kebabs:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
For the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Assembly:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus about 25 minutes of grilling time. After grilling, you’ll want to let the kebabs rest for 5 minutes before serving. In total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Great for a weeknight or weekend feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the BBQ sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This delicious sauce will add rich flavor to your kebabs!
2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon:
Take each cube of chicken and thread it onto a skewer. Then, wrap each piece of chicken tightly with a half slice of bacon. Make sure to secure it well so the bacon stays on during grilling. Keep going until all the chicken and bacon are used up!
3. Grill Time!
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Once it’s hot, carefully place the kebabs on the grill. Cook them for about 20-25 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them until the bacon is nice and crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Sauce It Up:
During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the kebabs generously with your bourbon BBQ sauce. Flip the kebabs and brush the other side as well. This will add a lovely glaze that makes them extra tasty!
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the kebabs are done cooking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Before serving, you can also sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
These kebabs are perfect alongside grilled veggies, corn on the cob, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your tasty creation! 🎉
FAQs About Bourbon Bacon BBQ Chicken Kebabs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs have more flavor and stay juicy, making them a great option. Just ensure you adjust your cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to cook through.
What Type of BBQ Sauce Should I Use?
You can use any BBQ sauce you love! Sweet, smoky, or tangy varieties all work well, or you can even make your own. Experiment with different flavors to personalize your kebabs!
How to Store Leftover Kebabs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating, you can warm them in the oven or grill them briefly until heated through to retain the bacon’s crispiness.
Can I Make the Kebabs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the kebabs a few hours in advance! Assemble them and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. Just make sure to take them out a bit before grilling to let them come to room temperature for even cooking.
