Grilling season is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like the mouth-watering smell of barbecued food wafting through the air. One dish that never fails to impress is the delectable Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers.
This recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a smoky and tangy barbecue glaze, resulting in a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in this scrumptious dish!
Ingredients
2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons of olive oil
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 teaspoon of paprika
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 teaspoon of chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
Step 1
Start by cutting the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and placing them in a large bowl.
Step 2
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create a flavorful marinade.
Step 3
Pour the marinade over the chicken cubes and toss to ensure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 4
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, ensure the coals are hot and ashy before placing the skewers on the grates.
Step 5
Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each cube.
Step 6
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Step 7
As the chicken cooks, brush each skewer generously with your favorite barbecue sauce, allowing it to caramelize and add a sticky, flavorful glaze. Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes per side, until the sauce has slightly charred.
Step 8
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy chicken.
Step 9
Serve the Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers hot with a side of Spanish Rice. The combination of smoky, tangy chicken and the flavorful Spanish Rice will delight your taste buds.
Spanish Rice The Perfect Accompaniment
No barbecue meal is complete without a delicious side dish, and Spanish Rice is the perfect choice to complement the Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers. This flavorful rice dish is made with aromatic spices, tomatoes, and onions, creating a vibrant and satisfying accompaniment.
Check out the recipe for spanish rice from Success Rice at recipe for Spanish Rice to create a delightful pairing.
The Advantages of Cooking Food on the Barbecue
Enhanced Flavor: Grilling imparts a unique smoky flavor to the food, elevating its taste profile. The heat from the grill caramelizes the natural sugars present in the ingredients, creating a delectable crust and enhancing the overall flavor.
Healthier Cooking: Grilling requires little to no added fats or oils, making it a healthier alternative to other cooking methods. Excess fat drips off the food as it cooks, reducing calorie intake without compromising on taste.
Versatility: Barbecuing isn’t limited to just meat; you can grill vegetables, fruits, and even cheese! The high heat of the grill adds a wonderful char and smokiness to a variety of ingredients, allowing for endless culinary possibilities.
Outdoor Experience: Cooking on the barbecue brings people together, creating a festive and social atmosphere. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors while preparing delicious meals for friends and family.
Types of Barbecue to Consider
When it comes to barbecuing, you have several options to choose from. Each type of barbecue offers its own unique advantages and adds a distinct flavor to your dishes. Here are a few popular choices:
Charcoal Grills
Charcoal grills provide that quintessential smoky flavor and are perfect for achieving a rich, traditional barbecue taste. They require charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal as fuel and offer precise temperature control.
Gas Grills
Gas grills are convenient and easy to use, making them a popular choice for beginners. They heat up quickly and allow for precise temperature adjustment, making them ideal for quick weeknight meals or impromptu gatherings.
Electric Grills
Electric grills are suitable for those who don’t have access to outdoor spaces or prefer a smoke-free cooking experience. They are compact, portable, and can be used indoors or on balconies. Electric grills offer consistent heat and are easy to clean.
Proper Storage of Barbecued Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Allow the leftover food to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or resealable bags. Place the containers in the refrigerator and consume within 3-4 days.
- Freezing: If you have a large amount of leftovers, consider freezing them for future enjoyment. Wrap the food tightly in plastic wrap or foil, or use freezer-safe containers or bags. Label and date the packages and consume within 2-3 months for the best quality.
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen barbecued leftovers, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. Ensure they reach a safe temperature before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat the leftovers thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming. You can use a microwave, oven, or stovetop, depending on the type of food. Make sure to heat the food evenly to maintain its taste and texture.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleasing dish that combines the smoky flavors of the grill with a tangy barbecue glaze. By following the simple recipe provided, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests. Don’t forget to serve these mouth-watering skewers with a side of flavorful Spanish Rice from Success Rice.
Barbecuing not only offers enhanced flavor but also provides a healthier cooking option and creates a social and enjoyable outdoor experience. Whether you choose a charcoal grill, gas grill, electric grill, or wood pellet grill, each offers its own unique advantages and adds a distinct taste to your dishes.