Name: Bourbon Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500g chicken thighs; 1/4 cup bourbon; 1/3 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 1 tablespoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 skewers

These Bourbon Chicken Skewers bring the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory to your plate. The bourbon-infused marinade caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving every bite a sticky glaze and bold flavor punch that will make you rethink your weeknight chicken routine. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to throw together.

What makes these skewers truly irresistible is their versatility. Serve them with steamed rice, tuck them into wraps, or just enjoy them off the stick with a squeeze of lime. Whether you’re grilling for a summer cookout or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers big flavor without much effort.

Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken Skewers Recipe

If you love takeout-style bourbon chicken, this grilled version brings that same sticky-sweet flavor with an extra layer of smoky char. The marinade doubles as a basting sauce, building up glossy layers of flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser for picky eaters and flavor seekers alike.

What Cut of Chicken Should I Use for Skewers?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best cut for skewers. They stay juicy, soak up the marinade like a sponge, and don’t dry out on the grill. You could use breasts if you prefer, but be sure not to overcook them. Thighs are much more forgiving and flavorful for this kind of recipe.

Ingredients for the Bourbon Chicken Skewers

To make the most flavorful skewers, the ingredients below create a rich, sweet, and tangy marinade that coats the chicken perfectly. Each component plays a role in developing the dish’s depth of flavor.

Chicken thighs
Bourbon
Soy sauce
Brown sugar
Garlic
Ginger
Apple cider vinegar
Ketchup
Cornstarch
Water
Olive oil
Skewers

How To Make the Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Mix the Marinade

In a medium bowl, whisk together the bourbon, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, apple cider vinegar, ketchup, and olive oil until smooth. Reserve about a third of the marinade for basting later.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a zip-top bag or bowl. Pour the remaining marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 5: Thicken Remaining Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the remaining marinade with a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water). Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Brush this glaze over the skewers before serving for extra shine and flavor.

Serving and Storing Bourbon Chicken Skewers

These skewers are best enjoyed hot off the grill, but they also reheat beautifully. Serve them as the centerpiece of your dinner, pack them for lunch the next day, or chop the chicken and toss into salads or wraps. This recipe feeds about 4 people generously, especially when paired with sides.

To store leftovers, remove the chicken from the skewers and place in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month.

What to Serve With Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The slightly floral aroma and fluffy texture pair perfectly with the sticky glaze of the chicken.

Grilled Pineapple

Caramelized pineapple brings out the sweet notes in the marinade and adds a juicy contrast.

Garlic Noodles

Savory, buttery garlic noodles balance out the sweetness of the chicken with umami depth.

Asian Slaw

Crispy cabbage, carrots, and a tangy sesame dressing make a refreshing side.

Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn adds smoky sweetness and makes this meal feel like a summer cookout.

Sweet Potato Fries

Crispy and tender with a hint of sweetness, these fries round out the plate nicely.

Edamame with Sea Salt

Light, protein-rich, and easy to prep, edamame keeps things simple and satisfying.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Bourbon Chicken Skewers, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use dark or light soy sauce? Did you add a dash of chili flakes for heat?

I love hearing how others bring their own twist to these skewers. Questions are welcome too – let’s make grilling more fun together.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and snacks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to flavor favorites!

Conclusion

Bourbon Chicken Skewers are the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight into something special. They’re quick to prep, fun to grill, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re feeding your family or impressing guests, this is a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your signature summer dish.