Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers

The aroma of sizzling chicken skewers drizzled in a sticky, sweet sauce can instantly transport you to a summer barbecue, even in the heart of winter. Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers are the perfect balance of savory and sweet, taking just 30 minutes to prepare and cook. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; the marinade infuses the chicken with rich bourbon flavors while caramelizing beautifully on the grill.

This recipe is ideal for chicken lovers and grill aficionados alike. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or planning a weeknight dinner, these skewers will please a crowd. You can prep the marinade ahead of time, making mealtime incredibly convenient.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The chicken stays moist and tender, thanks to thighs being used.
• A quick 30-minute recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
• The bourbon adds a depth of flavor that elevates your typical skewers.
• Grilling creates a delicious caramelization on the chicken for added texture.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to prepare your skewers:

For the Chicken

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

For the Marinade

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup bourbon

For Assembling

• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Soaking the skewers prevents burning on the grill.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken breast can replace chicken thighs.
• Maple syrup is a good honey substitute.
• Any whiskey may work in place of bourbon.
• Low-sodium soy sauce for less saltiness.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for delicious Sticky Bourbon Chicken Skewers.

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix olive oil, honey, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, and bourbon until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and add them to the marinade. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb the flavors.

3. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers

Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, ensuring they are packed tightly for even cooking.

4. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Ensure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill, cooking for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Watch closely to prevent charring.

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: yes, for up to 2 months.
Reheat: microwave for 1-2 minutes or grill briefly to warm.

Tips for Best Results

• Allow the chicken to marinate longer for stronger flavors.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
• Reserve some marinade for brushing on during grilling for extra flavor.
• Soak your skewers for 30 minutes prior to grilling to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
• Pair with a tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
• Perfect for backyard barbecues or family gatherings.