Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for parties, barbecues, or weeknight dinners. This recipe features a simple yet flavorful marinade that combines honey, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and bourbon for a sticky-sweet taste. Whether you’re serving these skewers as an appetizer or a side dish, their unique flavor profile and tender chicken will impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: The marinade comes together in just a few minutes, making this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.
• Mouthwatering Flavor: The combination of bourbon, honey, and garlic creates a rich and sticky glaze that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these skewers as an appetizer at parties or as a main dish alongside your favorite sides.
• Kid-Friendly Appeal: The sweet and savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your family.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These skewers can be marinated ahead of time and cooked when you’re ready to serve.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything runs smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden skewers
• Grill or grill pan
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Wooden skewers: Essential for holding the chicken pieces together while cooking. Soak them in water to prevent burning on the grill.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the best cooking method for caramelizing the marinade, resulting in deliciously charred flavors.
• Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the marinade ingredients easily without mess.

Ingredients

Simple, sticky-sweet marinade for bourbon chicken! Made with honey, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce.

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Marinade

• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic
• ½ cup bourbon

Additional Supplies

• Wooden skewers

How to Make Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and bourbon. Whisk until well blended.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. Add them to the marinade and stir to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Preheat Your Grill

While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water during this time.

Step 4: Assemble the Skewers

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto soaked skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken

Place skewers on the grill. Cook for about 12-15 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), turning occasionally to ensure even doneness.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Brush with extra marinade if desired for added flavor. Enjoy your Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers hot!

How to Serve Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile. They can be served in various ways to suit different occasions, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Appetizer Platter

• Pair with fresh vegetables like celery and bell peppers for crunch.
• Serve with a side of dipping sauce such as ranch or blue cheese.

Over Rice

• Place the skewers over a bed of jasmine rice for a hearty meal.
• Drizzle some extra marinade over the rice for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Shred the chicken and serve in soft tortillas with avocado and salsa.
• Top with cilantro and lime for a refreshing twist.

Salad Topper

• Slice the grilled chicken and add it to mixed greens.
• Include toppings like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.

Party Skewers

• Use smaller pieces of chicken on toothpicks for bite-sized snacks.
• Offer with a selection of dips for guests to enjoy.

How to Perfect Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Creating the perfect Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
• Soak skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Preheat grill: Ensure your grill is hot before adding the skewers. This helps achieve those lovely char marks.
• Turn frequently: Rotate the skewers every few minutes while cooking for even grilling and caramelization.
• Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Let rest: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after grilling before serving. This keeps them juicy.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers pair well with various side dishes that complement their sweet and savory flavors. Consider these options:

1. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the chicken.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus enhance the dish’s color and flavor.
3. Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread on the side for a comforting touch.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad provides a nutritious contrast and can be flavored with lemon or herbs.
5. Baked Beans: Sweet baked beans complement the bourbon glaze perfectly, making a hearty pairing.
6. Garlic Bread: Savory garlic bread is great for soaking up any extra marinade or sauce left on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

• Using too much bourbon: This can overpower the dish. Stick to the recommended amount for balanced flavor.
• Skipping the marinating step: Marinating is crucial for infusing flavors into the chicken. Allow at least 30 minutes for best results.
• Not soaking skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken should be tender and juicy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F without drying out.
• Ignoring ingredient quality: Using low-quality ingredients can affect taste. Choose fresh garlic and good-quality honey and soy sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

• Place cooked skewers in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and place skewers on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep them moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers are marinated chicken thighs grilled or baked on skewers, featuring a sweet bourbon-based sauce that enhances their flavor.

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breast. However, thighs tend to remain juicier during cooking due to their higher fat content.

How do I customize Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

You can customize them by adding vegetables like bell peppers or onions on the skewers. Experiment with different spices and sauces as well!

Can I make these skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate them up to 24 hours in advance before cooking, which will enhance their flavor further.

What should I serve with Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

These skewers pair well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables, making them versatile for any meal setting.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Feel free to customize your skewers with different veggies or spice blends to make this recipe your own. Enjoy this sticky treat at your next meal!

---

Dinner Recipes