These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Juicy chicken is mixed with crispy bacon and ranch dressing, all cooked on skewers. It’s like a party for your taste buds!
Cooking these kabobs is super easy and always a hit at gatherings. I love how they look on the grill—so tempting! Just watch out; they disappear fast! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. You can switch to thighs if you want a juicier option. They tend to stay moist, even when grilled.
Bacon: I love using smoky bacon for that extra flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, but it may not get as crispy.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This is key for flavor! If you don’t have a packet, mix homemade ranch seasoning with buttermilk, garlic powder, and dried herbs. It gives a personal touch!
Olive Oil: A bit of olive oil helps the chicken stay juicy. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can be a great alternative.
Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Metal skewers are ready to go and easier to reuse!
How Can I Ensure the Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken thoroughly is important for safety and flavor. Start by properly mixing your chicken with the ranch dressing mix and olive oil to lock in moisture.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F – 400°F, for a nice sear.
- Grill the kabobs for 10-15 minutes, turning them every few minutes for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
- Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for tastier bites!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet of ranch dressing mix
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For Serving (Optional):
- Fresh lettuce leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take around 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook on the grill. With a total time of about 25 minutes, you’ll have a tasty dish that’s easy to whip up for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your kabobs cook evenly and the bacon gets nice and crispy.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the pieces of chicken with the ranch dressing mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything well so that each piece of chicken is nicely coated with the tasty ranch flavor.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take a piece of the seasoned chicken and wrap it in a half-slice of bacon. Then, thread it onto a skewer. Keep repeating this process until all your chicken and bacon are used up. Feel free to alternate between chicken and bacon on each skewer for a fun look!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to get those kabobs cooking! Place them on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them a few times as they cook, so everything gets that delicious grilled flavor. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the chicken, making them extra tasty.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs on a nice platter. If you’d like, add some fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing touch. Gather your friends or family and enjoy this scrumptious dish!
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for chicken, you can also use turkey or even pork if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary to ensure the meat is cooked through, as different meats have different cooking times.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing Mix?
If you don’t have ranch dressing mix on hand, you can create a homemade version! Mix together 1 tablespoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of salt. This will give you a similar flavor profile to the packet mix!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but the oven helps maintain the bacon’s crispiness!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the bacon is crispy. This is a great option when grilling isn’t possible!
