Bourbon Chicken Skewers

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When I first made these Bourbon Chicken Skewers, I knew they were something special. The marinade alone had me licking the spoon—rich with brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and that signature bourbon warmth. As they grilled, the scent turned heads and had the whole neighborhood wondering what was cooking. By the time they were served, there wasn’t a skewer left in sight.

It wasn’t just about the flavor, although that deep, caramelized glaze certainly stole the show. What made these skewers truly unforgettable was how easy they were to prepare and how perfect they turned out every time. Whether it was a quick dinner for the family or a centerpiece for a summer cookout, they delivered.

I paired them once with a creamy macaroni salad and a chilled glass of white wine, and the balance was nothing short of perfect. Another time, I served them with crispy oven-roasted root vegetables—a combo I highly recommend if you’re looking for a hearty, wholesome plate like this one. I also find they play beautifully beside my creamy garlic chicken breasts when I want to turn an ordinary evening into something extraordinary.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken Skewers Recipe

These Bourbon Chicken Skewers hit all the right notes: they’re sweet, smoky, savory, and have that subtle kick of bourbon that elevates everything. The marinade does most of the heavy lifting, which means you get restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. They’re ideal for grilling season but just as tasty on a stovetop grill pan. Plus, they come together quickly and reheat like a dream—if you have any leftovers, that is.

Ingredients

Chicken Thighs – Their rich, juicy texture soaks up the marinade beautifully and stays moist on the grill.

Bourbon – The heart of the flavor, it adds warmth and depth with a hint of smokiness.

Soy Sauce – Brings the salty umami base that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.

Brown Sugar – Adds a sweet caramelization that turns irresistibly sticky when grilled.

Garlic – Provides a pungent bite that enhances the complexity of the sauce.

Ginger – A touch of sharpness and heat that pairs beautifully with bourbon.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Adds brightness and keeps the marinade from being too heavy.

Ketchup – A surprise ingredient that adds body and tang to the marinade.

Cornstarch – Thickens the marinade just enough to coat the skewers perfectly.

How to Make Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and a bit of water. Stir in cornstarch until smooth. The mixture should be glossy and thick enough to cling to a spoon.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut chicken thighs into even chunks and place them in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight, to let the flavors fully develop.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden or metal skewers. Shake off any excess marinade but don’t wipe them clean—that extra coating caramelizes beautifully on the grill.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred on the edges. Brush with additional marinade during grilling if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve with rice, salad, or your favorite sides for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily tailor these Bourbon Chicken Skewers to your preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. If bourbon isn’t your thing or you’re avoiding alcohol, try using apple juice with a drop of liquid smoke as a substitute. You can also swap chicken thighs for chicken breast, though thighs remain juicier on the grill.

For a tropical twist, add pineapple chunks between the chicken pieces on the skewers. The fruit caramelizes beautifully and adds a lovely sweetness. Another fun variation? A drizzle of honey or maple syrup over the finished skewers for an extra sticky glaze.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These skewers are a hit on their own, but they shine even more with the right sides. I often pair them with jasmine rice or coconut rice for a subtle contrast. Grilled vegetables, especially bell peppers and zucchini, echo the smoky notes of the chicken.

They also complement pasta dishes like my creamy Tuscan sausage pasta or a chilled summer salad like the broccoli salad. If you’re entertaining, they make a great addition to a barbecue spread with fresh lemonade or a light, citrusy beer.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover Bourbon Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I prefer using a grill pan or oven to bring back some of the original texture—just warm them at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. If you must, cover them with a damp paper towel and heat in short bursts. You can also freeze the skewers (uncooked or cooked) in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw them fully before reheating or grilling.

FAQs

Can I make Bourbon Chicken Skewers without bourbon?

Absolutely. Apple juice with a bit of liquid smoke gives you a similar flavor without the alcohol.

How long should I marinate the chicken for Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

For the best flavor, marinate at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.

What cut of chicken works best for Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the juiciest and most flavorful option.

Can I bake the Bourbon Chicken Skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through and broiling the last few minutes for a charred finish.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love the deep, satisfying flavors of Bourbon Chicken Skewers, you should definitely try the bourbon peach BBQ chicken. It captures that perfect mix of smoky, sweet, and savory with a fruity twist. Another crowd-pleaser is the garlic butter steak bites with creamy Alfredo tortellini — rich, indulgent, and great for dinner parties.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this one slip away! Pin these Bourbon Chicken Skewers to your favorite Pinterest board so you can always find them when you’re planning your next barbecue or easy weeknight dinner. Share this recipe with your foodie friends on Facebook, Instagram, or by text—they’ll thank you later. And if you make it, be sure to snap a photo and tag me so I can see your delicious creations!

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