These Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers are a tasty treat! The mix of sweet honey and spicy chipotle gives the chicken a fun kick that everyone will love.
Grilling these skewers makes them juicy and perfect for summer barbecues. I love to serve them with a side of fresh veggies—it’s a great way to add some color to my plate!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I like using boneless, skinless chicken thighs as they stay juicy and tender. Chicken breasts work too, but they can dry out if overcooked. You can also try firm tofu or portobello mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Honey: Honey adds sweetness and helps with caramelization on the grill. If you need a sugar-free option, consider using agave syrup or maple syrup. Just keep in mind that each will slightly change the flavor.
Chipotle Peppers: Chipotle peppers give a nice smoky heat. If you’re not a fan of spice, you could replace them with diced bell peppers or a mild salsa. You can use smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness without the heat.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the flavor wonderfully. If you don’t have fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch; use about 1/4 teaspoon for every clove of fresh garlic.
How Do You Get Chicken Skewers Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Grilling chicken skewers can be tricky, but with a few tips, you can nail it! The key is to ensure even cooking and a tasty char without burning. Here’s what to do:
- Cut the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces. This helps them cook evenly.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on it.
- Leave space between pieces on the skewer. This allows the heat to circulate and cook the chicken thoroughly.
- Brush with leftover marinade during grilling, but avoid cross-contamination. Only use what you set aside separately.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side. Look for a nice golden char, but don’t let it burn!
- Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Letting the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken extra juicy. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a fresh touch!
How to Make Honey Chipotle Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or chicken breast)
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of active prep time and at least 30 minutes to marinate. If you prefer stronger flavors, marinate for up to 4 hours. Cooking on the grill will take about 12-16 minutes. So, plan for around 1 hour for the whole process, including marinating!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a mixing bowl. Combine the honey, minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well combined and smooth. This little bit of magic is going to give your chicken a wonderful flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and place them in the bowl with the marinade. Make sure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated with that tasty mixture. Once done, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or, if you have the time, up to 4 hours to let those flavors soak in.
3. Prepare for Grilling:
When you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers for the chicken, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand. This will stop them from catching fire while grilling!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Take the chicken out of the marinade and start threading the pieces onto the skewers. Leave a little space between each piece to ensure they cook evenly. Once all the chicken is on the skewers, you’re ready to light up the grill!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a lovely char on the outside. For an extra kick of flavor, you can brush any remaining marinade onto the chicken as it grills.
6. Let Them Rest and Serve:
Once the skewers are done cooking, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy! Before serving, garnish the skewers with fresh cilantro. Serve them hot alongside your favorite dipping sauce or side dishes, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for boneless, skinless chicken thighs, you can use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that breast meat may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked, so monitor the grilling closely!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the chicken the day you plan to grill for the freshest flavor. If you’re making extra marinade, it can also double as a sauce, just be sure to cook it to a simmer first!
How to Store Leftover Skewers
Store any leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or use the microwave for a quicker option, though they may not stay as crispy.
What Are Some Good Dipping Sauces for These Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces! Consider serving them with a creamy avocado sauce, yogurt-based tzatziki, or a tangy barbecue sauce. For extra heat, a spicy sriracha mayonnaise would be fantastic, too!
