These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers are the ultimate combination of savory chicken and smoky bacon, perfect for any barbecue, party, or family dinner. Juicy pieces of chicken breast are wrapped in crispy bacon, skewered, and grilled to perfection. With a touch of sweetness from a honey glaze, these skewers are an irresistible crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a main dish, these skewers are sure to impress your guests. Let’s get grilling with this delicious recipe!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers
2. Instructions for Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Serving Suggestions
7. Conclusion

Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
• 1 lb bacon, cut in half crosswise
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions for Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

• In a small bowl, mix together the honey, soy sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper. This marinade adds a wonderful sweet and savory flavor that complements both the chicken and bacon beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Bacon

• Wrap each chicken cube with a half slice of bacon. The bacon should be snug but not too tight to allow even cooking.
• Thread the bacon-wrapped chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even grilling.
• Brush each skewer with the prepared honey mixture, making sure to coat all sides evenly. This will help the bacon caramelize and give a beautiful, sticky finish when grilled.

Step 3: Preheat and Grill

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
• Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure the bacon and chicken cook evenly. Grill until the bacon is crispy and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
• Brush the skewers with any remaining honey mixture during the last few minutes of grilling for extra flavor. Keep a close eye on the skewers to avoid flare-ups from the bacon fat.

Tips & Notes

• Soak the Skewers: Be sure to soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
• Temperature Control: Keep an eye on the grill temperature to ensure the bacon crisps up without burning. Bacon has a high fat content, which can cause flare-ups, so always watch the grill closely and adjust the temperature as needed.
• Bacon Choice: Use thin-cut bacon for faster, crispier cooking. Thick-cut bacon may require a longer grilling time and may not get as crispy as desired. Thin bacon also wraps more easily around the chicken.
• Uniform Chicken Pieces: To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken into uniform pieces. This helps prevent some pieces from overcooking while others remain underdone.
• Glaze for Extra Flavor: To enhance the flavor, you can add an additional layer of glaze after cooking. Simply brush on more honey mixture or a different glaze, such as BBQ sauce, after removing the skewers from the grill.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Spicy Glaze: Add 1 teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce to the honey mixture for a spicy kick. This will give the skewers a sweet and spicy balance that pairs well with the smoky bacon.
• Herb Flavor: Sprinkle the skewers with chopped fresh rosemary or thyme before grilling for added herbal notes. Herbs like rosemary and thyme complement the smoky flavors of the bacon and add a wonderful aromatic element to the dish.
• Oven-Baked Option: If you don’t have a grill, bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the bacon is crispy and the chicken is cooked through. Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a crispy finish.
• Teriyaki Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers: Substitute the honey and soy sauce mixture with teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile. The teriyaki sauce adds a rich, slightly sweet, and savory element that works beautifully with the bacon and chicken.
• Maple Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a richer, deeper sweetness. Maple and bacon are a classic combination that gives the skewers a wonderful, caramelized finish.

Serving Suggestions

• Dipping Sauces: Serve these skewers with a variety of dipping sauces for extra flavor. Ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo work wonderfully as dipping options.
• Side Dishes: Pair these skewers with grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. The fresh crunch of vegetables balances out the richness of the bacon-wrapped chicken.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve the skewers over a bed of rice or quinoa to soak up any extra glaze and juices. The grains add a nice, hearty base to the dish and help balance the flavors.
• Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad or a tangy coleslaw is an excellent side dish to complement the smoky, savory skewers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the skewers and marinate them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This makes them a great option for prepping in advance for parties or gatherings. Just be sure to keep them covered to maintain freshness.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also enjoy them cold, sliced over a salad or in a wrap.

3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work well for this recipe and provide a juicier texture. Just make sure they’re cut into even pieces for consistent cooking. Thighs have a slightly higher fat content, which makes them very flavorful when wrapped in bacon.

4. What if I don’t have a grill?

No problem! You can bake these skewers in the oven or use a stovetop grill pan. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes will yield similar results, and using the broiler for the last few minutes will help crisp up the bacon.

5. Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

Yes, you can alternate pieces of chicken with bell peppers, red onion, or pineapple for added flavor and color. Just be mindful that vegetables may cook faster than the chicken, so cut them into large enough pieces to withstand the grilling time.

These Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to any gathering or family meal. With a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, these skewers are easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a sticky glaze makes these skewers simply irresistible. Whether grilled or baked, they offer a juicy, flavorful bite every time. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, a fresh salad, or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

The versatility of this dish makes it ideal for everything from a casual barbecue to a special family dinner. Get creative with the variations, and don’t be afraid to try different glazes or herbs to make it your own. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, these skewers are a delicious, easy way to make any meal feel special.

Happy grilling, and enjoy every bite of these smoky, savory delights!