14 Grilled Chicken Skewer Recipes With Juicy, Charred Perfection

14 Grilled Chicken Skewer Recipes With Juicy, Charred Perfection – your ticket to summer’s most craveable meals. When the grill’s fired up and the sun hangs low in the sky, nothing satisfies quite like skewers of tender chicken, kissed by flames and bursting with flavor. These 14 foolproof recipes transform simple chicken into extraordinary kebabs, from classic garlic-herb versions to globally inspired creations featuring bold spice rubs, tropical fruit pairings, and irresistible glazes that caramelize into sticky-sweet perfection over hot coals.

Each recipe delivers that ideal balance of juicy interior and crispy, slightly charred edges that makes grilled skewers so addictive. We’ve included marinades that penetrate deep for maximum flavor, pro tips for preventing dried-out chicken, and creative combinations that’ll make your backyard barbecue the talk of the season. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a summer cookout or just jazzing up weeknight dinners, these skewers turn ordinary chicken into something truly special with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness.

Buffalo Chicken Skewers

Buffalo Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy the classic flavors of buffalo chicken in a fun, easy-to-eat form. Tender pieces of chicken are marinated in a spicy buffalo sauce and then grilled to perfection, offering that delicious charred flavor. They’re perfect for game day, parties, or a simple weeknight dinner.

Making these skewers is super simple. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dish that’s sure to please everyone. The spicy kick from the buffalo sauce, paired with a cool dipping sauce, makes each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and coat thoroughly. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers.
3. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping and enjoy!

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki chicken skewers are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors that make them a perfect choice for any gathering. These skewers are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.

The teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a juicy texture and an irresistible glaze. With a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these skewers in no time, impressing family and friends with your cooking skills.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 cup water
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, cornstarch, and water until well combined. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful and juicy teriyaki chicken skewers!

Mediterranean Herb Chicken Skewers

These Mediterranean Herb Chicken Skewers are bursting with flavor and perfect for any gathering. Marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and lemon, they create a delightful taste that beautifully balances savory and tangy. Best of all, they’re super simple to make, making them a go-to option for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues.

The juicy chicken pieces get that irresistible charred finish, making each bite a treat. Pair them with a fresh salad or some warm pita bread for a complete meal that everyone will love. Here’s how to whip up these tasty skewers!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Skewer the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers

Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet flavors that create a mouthwatering experience. The tender chicken gets marinated in a rich peanut sauce, which infuses it with a creamy and nutty taste while also adding a hint of spice. This recipe is simple to make, perfect for grilling season, and great for gatherings with friends and family.

The skewers are not just tasty; they’re also visually appealing, making them a hit at any barbecue or party. Serve them with extra peanut sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
• Chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
5. Grill the Skewers: Cook the skewers on the grill for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and garnish with chopped cilantro and crushed peanuts. Serve with extra peanut sauce on the side.

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a delightful mix of sweet and heat that’s sure to please any crowd. Juicy chicken chunks marinated in a zesty honey garlic sauce are grilled to perfection, delivering a smoky flavor with every bite. This recipe is easy to whip up, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

The combination of honey’s sweetness and spicy undertones creates a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully when grilled. These skewers are not just tasty; they also allow for versatile serving options, whether as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads or wraps. Grab your skewers and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust for spice preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. In a bowl, mix together honey, garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Discard any leftover marinade.
5. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot, drizzled with any leftover honey sauce, and enjoy!

Lemon Basil Chicken Skewers

Lemon basil chicken skewers are a delightful treat that combines the bright, zesty flavor of lemon with the aromatic touch of fresh basil. This recipe is not only simple but also perfect for any cook, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro. The grilling adds a lovely char, keeping the chicken juicy and tender while infusing it with a smoky flavor.

These skewers are great for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends. They pair wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh salad. Here’s how to make them:

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped basil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread the cubes onto the soaked wooden skewers.
3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra lemon wedges and fresh basil on the side.

Barbecue Chicken Skewers

Barbecue chicken skewers are a delightful dish that brings together tender, juicy chicken and a tangy sauce. They’re simple to prepare and perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner. Marinated in a flavorful mix, these skewers are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering.

The smoky, charred flavor from the grill perfectly complements the sweetness of the barbecue sauce, giving each bite a burst of taste. Easy to customize with your choice of vegetables, these skewers are versatile and can cater to any palate.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
• 1 onion, cut into squares
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients.
3. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and brush with extra barbecue sauce if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers

Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers are a delicious and refreshing dish that brings a vibrant burst of flavor to your grill. Marinated in a mix of cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and spices, these skewers are simple to prepare and perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. The combination of zesty lime and fresh cilantro gives the chicken a lively taste that pairs wonderfully with any side dish.

These skewers not only look great on the grill but are also tender and juicy, making them a hit with family and friends. Plus, they’re easy enough for even novice cooks to whip up quickly. Serve them with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro for an added pop of flavor!

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 limes, juiced and zested
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with extra lime wedges and fresh cilantro on the side.

Chipotle Lime Chicken Skewers

Chipotle lime chicken skewers bring a smoky, zesty flavor to your grilling experience. The combination of chipotle peppers and fresh lime creates a tangy marinade that deeply infuses the chicken, resulting in each bite bursting with taste. Plus, they’re super simple to make, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.

These skewers provide a delightful balance of heat and citrus, making them a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve them with a tasty dipping sauce or alongside your favorite side dishes, they are sure to impress. Let’s get started with the recipe!

Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers

Honey mustard chicken skewers are a delicious blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making them a hit for any gathering. They’re super easy to prepare, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you likely have on hand. The combination of honey, mustard, and juicy chicken creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.

These skewers can be grilled or baked, allowing for versatility in cooking methods. Perfect for summer barbecues or quick weeknight dinners, they come together in no time and pair beautifully with fresh salads or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight in the fridge.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers.
4. Cooking: Grill the skewers over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Sweet and Sour Chicken Skewers

Sweet and sour chicken skewers are a delightful mix of flavors that brings a burst of joy to your plate. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a luscious sweet and tangy sauce, complemented by colorful bell peppers and onions. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

The vibrant colors and the appealing taste make these skewers a hit with both kids and adults. You can grill them to perfection for that smoky flavor or bake them for a healthier option. Either way, these skewers are sure to impress!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, yellow), cut into chunks
• 1 onion, cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine chicken pieces, sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, alternating with chunks of bell pepper and onion.
3. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Remove from the grill and serve hot. Drizzle with extra sweet and sour sauce if desired.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s both simple and delicious. The savory garlic combined with the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering taste that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. These skewers are not only easy to prepare but also make for a great option for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up these skewers in no time. They grill up beautifully, developing a delicious char that enhances their flavor. Serve them with a side salad or some grilled veggies for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and mix well to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s prepped and ready for those skewers!
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

These Mediterranean Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a delightful fusion of flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the sunny shores of the Mediterranean. Grilled to perfection, they feature juicy chicken marinated in a mix of herbs and spices, paired with colorful bell peppers and zucchini, giving every bite a fresh and vibrant taste. Plus, they are simple to make, making them a perfect option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.

The combination of tender chicken and crisp veggies, infused with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, creates a mouthwatering meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The skewers not only look appealing but also allow for easy serving and sharing, making them great for gatherings with friends and family.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and mix well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and zucchini onto the soaked skewers, alternating between the chicken and vegetables for a colorful presentation.
3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill over medium heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Cajun Spiced Chicken Skewers

Cajun spiced chicken skewers are a delightful way to bring a taste of the South to your grill. These skewers are packed with bold flavors and a hint of heat, making them a tasty option for any gathering. The blend of Cajun spices gives the chicken a deliciously smoky and savory kick, while the grilling process ensures a juicy and tender bite in every skewer.

Making these skewers is super simple, perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. Just marinate the chicken, thread it onto skewers, and grill to perfection. Serve them with a zesty dipping sauce, and you’re sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove skewers from the grill, garnish with cilantro, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken skewers are the ultimate warm-weather food – versatile enough for casual dinners yet impressive for entertaining, healthy but never boring. As you work through these recipes, don’t be afraid to play with flavors and find your personal perfect blend of spices, herbs, and accompaniments. The beauty of skewers lies in their simplicity and adaptability, so feel free to swap veggies, adjust heat levels, or experiment with different wood chips for subtle smoky nuances. Just remember the golden rules: don’t overcrowd the skewers, keep that grill hot, and let the chicken rest before serving. Here’s to long summer evenings, cold drinks in hand, and platters of perfectly charred, flavor-packed chicken skewers disappearing before your eyes!