Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers are a classic summer favorite that bring together juicy chicken pieces coated in your favorite tangy barbecue sauce, threaded onto skewers and cooked to smoky perfection. The outside gets a nice char while the inside stays tender and full of flavor. These skewers are colorful, easy to handle, and perfect for throwing on the grill.
I love making these skewers when friends come over because they’re so simple to eat and everyone can grab exactly how many they want. I usually marinate the chicken a few hours ahead to soak up all that rich BBQ taste. It’s such a crowd-pleaser — even people who aren’t huge fans of chicken tend to go back for seconds!
Serving these skewers alongside a crisp salad or grilled veggies turns them into a complete meal fast. I also like to have extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. To me, these skewers bring back memories of backyard cookouts and easy weekends, which makes them feel even better when they’re on the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, but breasts work well too if you prefer leaner meat. Just avoid overcooking breasts to keep them tender.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own for a personalized flavor. If you want less sugar, try a low-sugar or vinegar-based BBQ sauce.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice smoky taste. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of chili powder can work in a pinch.
Spaghetti & Rice: Classic sides that absorb flavors nicely. Use brown rice for a healthier option, but cooking time will be longer. For pasta, whole wheat or gluten-free options can be used based on your needs.
Broccoli: Fresh is best for steaming, but frozen broccoli works well if you’re short on time. Just adjust steaming time accordingly.
How Do You Get Tender, Juicy Chicken Skewers Every Time?
Marinating and grilling are the key steps to delicious chicken skewers. Here’s how to nail it:
- Marinate Long Enough: At least 1 hour, but overnight is best for deep flavor and tender meat.
- Thread Evenly: Cut chicken into similar sizes and space pieces on skewers for even cooking.
- Preheat the Grill: Medium-high heat gives a nice char without drying out the chicken.
- Turn Often: Rotate skewers every few minutes to cook evenly and avoid burning.
- Check Doneness: Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside or be firm and no longer pink.
For extra moisture, brush with leftover marinade or BBQ sauce while grilling—but don’t use any sauce that touched raw chicken to avoid contamination.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill or grill pan – I recommend this for creating those perfect charred spots and smoky flavor for the chicken.
- Wooden or metal skewers – Soaking wooden skewers in water keeps them from burning on the grill.
- Large pot with lid – Use this to cook the rice and pasta easily and evenly.
- Steamer basket – Steaming broccoli is quick and keeps it bright green and tender.
- Cooking utensils (tongs, wooden spoon) – Handy for flipping skewers and stirring rice or pasta without mess.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp or beef skewers for a different protein twist, great for variety.
- Add chopped bell peppers or onions to the skewers for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix in some grated cheese or serve with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy touch.
- Replace BBQ sauce with honey mustard or teriyaki sauce for different flavor profiles.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers with Spaghetti, Rice, and Steamed Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
For the Sides:
- 8 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- Salt, to taste
- Water (for boiling pasta, rice, and steaming broccoli)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes total. It includes 1 hour to marinate the chicken, 15-20 minutes to cook the rice, around 8-10 minutes to boil the spaghetti, 5-7 minutes to steam the broccoli, and 10-12 minutes to grill the chicken skewers. Preparing and serving should be straightforward and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix the chicken cubes with BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or overnight if you want even more flavor.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces carefully onto the soaked wooden or metal skewers. Try to keep the pieces similar in size and space them evenly for even cooking.
3. Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Put the rice, 2 cups of water, and a pinch of salt in a pot. Bring it to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff it gently with a fork and set aside.
4. Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package directions, usually 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente (cooked but with a little bite). Drain the pasta and set it aside.
5. Steam the Broccoli:
Fill a pot with a small amount of water and bring it to a boil. Place the broccoli florets in a steamer basket over the boiling water, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes. The broccoli should be bright green and tender but still a bit crisp. Season it with a little salt if you like.
6. Grill the Chicken Skewers:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every few minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or broiler instead.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
On each plate, place a serving of rice and spaghetti side by side. Lay the grilled BBQ chicken skewers over the spaghetti. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a bright, fresh touch. Add the steamed broccoli on the side. If you like, serve extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for the Skewers?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate and thread the chicken onto skewers a few hours or even the night before. Keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken, rice, spaghetti, and broccoli in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep them moist and tasty.
Can I Use Other Vegetables with This Meal?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini make great additions to the skewers, adding extra flavor and color. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces and thread alongside the chicken before grilling.