If you’re looking for a delicious, savory, and mouthwatering dish to impress your guests or enjoy a weeknight dinner, Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are a perfect choice. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and sweet honey BBQ sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile. These kabobs are easy to prepare, making them a great option for those busy days when you want to enjoy a fantastic meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re grilling for a family gathering or a casual dinner, these grilled kabobs are sure to become a go-to favorite!
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Why Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs Are a Must-Try
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs are a great option for anyone who loves sweet and savory flavors. The grilled chicken gets perfectly charred while staying juicy, thanks to the bacon wrapping it, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture. The honey BBQ sauce ties everything together, giving the kabobs a subtle sweetness that perfectly complements the smokiness of the grill and the savoriness of the bacon. Easy to make and fun to eat, these kabobs are perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
To make these flavorful grilled honey BBQ bacon chicken kabobs, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breast: The lean protein base for the kabobs. It absorbs the BBQ sauce and remains tender after grilling.
- Bacon: Adds a savory crunch and smoky flavor, wrapping around the chicken to keep it moist while grilling.
- Honey BBQ Sauce: The star of the show, offering a rich, sweet, and tangy flavor that enhances the grilled chicken and bacon.
- Bell Peppers: Adds color, crunch, and a slight sweetness, balancing out the richness of the bacon and chicken.
- Onions: Offer a sharp, savory contrast to the sweetness of the honey BBQ sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Used to coat the chicken and vegetables, helping them grill evenly and adding a slight richness.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers are used to thread the chicken, bacon, and vegetables before grilling.
Alternative Ingredient Suggestions for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
If you’re looking to modify the recipe to suit dietary preferences or what’s available, here are some great alternatives:
- Chicken Thighs: For a juicier, more flavorful option, you can swap chicken breasts for thighs.
- Turkey Bacon: A lighter alternative to regular bacon, offering similar texture with less fat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-Free BBQ Sauce: Use gluten-free BBQ sauce if you’re looking for a gluten-free variation of this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
- Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks, ensuring each piece is roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Wrap with Bacon: Take slices of bacon and wrap them around each chunk of chicken. Secure the bacon with toothpicks if necessary.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Slice bell peppers and onions into large pieces that will fit easily on the skewers. Coat them lightly with olive oil for grilling.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the chicken and bacon pieces onto the skewers, alternating with the bell peppers and onions. Leave a little space between each ingredient for even grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it is well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Be sure to check the chicken for doneness by cutting into it.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with honey BBQ sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Make sure there’s enough space between the ingredients to allow heat to circulate properly, ensuring even cooking.
- Check the Bacon: Bacon can burn quickly, so keep an eye on it while grilling. You may want to turn the kabobs more frequently to prevent burning.
- Rest the Kabobs: Allow the kabobs to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute in the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature (165°F), use a meat thermometer.
Pairing Ideas and Variations for Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
These kabobs pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes:
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: A classic BBQ side that complements the smoky flavors of the chicken.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy, creamy coleslaw balances the rich flavor of the kabobs.
- Garlic Bread: A perfect side to soak up any extra honey BBQ sauce.
- Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad offers a cool contrast to the savory kabobs.
For a spicier twist, add a bit of chili powder or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce. You can also serve the kabobs with a side of spicy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.
Health Benefits of Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
While these kabobs are rich in flavor, they also provide several health benefits:
- Protein-Packed: Chicken is an excellent source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
- Bacon in Moderation: Bacon adds flavor and richness but can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
- Vegetable Boost: The inclusion of bell peppers and onions adds vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber to the meal.
These Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs offer a balanced combination of savory and sweet flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for all occasions.
Conclusion:
Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs offer a perfect blend of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re grilling for a casual dinner, a family gathering, or a weekend BBQ, these kabobs provide a delicious and easy meal with a touch of indulgence. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich honey BBQ sauce will have your guests coming back for seconds. Plus, the recipe’s versatility allows for simple substitutions to fit dietary needs or personal preferences. So fire up the grill and enjoy a flavorful meal that is sure to impress!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I make Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the kabobs ahead of time by assembling them and storing them in the fridge. Just make sure to brush the BBQ sauce on right before grilling to avoid any burning during the cooking process. These kabobs can be stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling.
Can I substitute the chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can swap chicken with other proteins like turkey, shrimp, or even beef. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times according to the protein you’re using. For example, shrimp will cook faster than chicken.
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
For the best results, use a good-quality honey BBQ sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, opt for a BBQ sauce with added chili or hot sauce. You can also make your own BBQ sauce by combining honey, ketchup, vinegar, and spices to suit your flavor preferences.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked on the grill?
The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for it to be fully cooked and safe to eat. If you don’t have a thermometer, you can cut the chicken open to ensure it’s no longer pink in the center.
More Relevant Recipes
If you enjoyed making Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs, here are some other mouthwatering recipes that are perfect for your next BBQ or family gathering:
- Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler: A savory, cheesy ground beef cobbler with a delicious cheddar bay biscuit topping. Perfect for a hearty meal alongside your grilled kabobs.
- Southern-Style Honey Butter Cornbread Poppers: Sweet and savory cornbread poppers with a honey butter glaze, an ideal side to balance the smokiness of your chicken kabobs.
- Crispy Baked Honey BBQ Popcorn Chicken: A crispy and tender chicken dish glazed with honey BBQ sauce, a great alternative for those who love the flavors of BBQ chicken.
These recipes will complement your Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs perfectly, offering a variety of textures and flavors that your guests will love!
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Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
Grilled Honey BBQ Bacon Chicken Kabobs offer a perfect combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and sweet BBQ sauce. The kabobs are grilled to perfection, with juicy chicken wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a tangy honey BBQ sauce, creating a flavor-packed treat that’s perfect for BBQs or family gatherings.
Ingredients
- Chicken Breast: 1.5 lbs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Bacon: 8 slices, cut into thirds
- Honey BBQ Sauce: 1 cup
- Bell Peppers: 2, cut into chunks
- Onions: 1 large, cut into chunks
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
- Skewers: 4-5 wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and grease the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and wrap each piece with a third of a slice of bacon.
- Thread the bacon-wrapped chicken onto skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onions.
- Brush the chicken and vegetables with olive oil for an even cook.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the bacon is crispy.
- During the last 2-3 minutes of grilling, brush the kabobs with honey BBQ sauce to allow it to caramelize.
- Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Ensure the bacon is wrapped tightly around the chicken to prevent it from unwrapping during grilling.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the BBQ sauce.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg