Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs

Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs are packed with smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that make them a standout choice for grilling season. Tender chunks of chicken are wrapped with smoky bacon, brushed with a rich bourbon barbecue glaze, and grilled until beautifully caramelized. These flavorful skewers are perfect for backyard cookouts, game day gatherings, or easy family dinners when you want something impressive yet simple to prepare.

Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs

Make juicy Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs with smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a sweet bourbon barbecue glaze perfect for grilling.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 5 people

Calories: 520

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• For the Kebabs
• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into chunks
• 12 slices bacon cut in half
• 8 wooden or metal skewers
• For the Bourbon BBQ Glaze
• 1 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional Garnish
• Chopped fresh parsley
• Green onions

Method

 

1. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes if using bamboo skewers.
2. In a small saucepan, combine the barbecue sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and allow it to cool.
4. Wrap each piece of chicken with half a slice of bacon and thread onto the skewers.
5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
6. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for about 12 to 15 minutes, turning frequently for even cooking.
7. During the final few minutes of cooking, brush the kebabs generously with the bourbon BBQ glaze. Continue turning and glazing until the bacon is crisp and the chicken is fully cooked.
8. Remove from the grill and let the kebabs rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired and serve warm.

Notes

• The bourbon cooks down in the glaze, leaving behind a rich flavor that complements the smoky bacon and barbecue sauce beautifully.
• Avoid adding the glaze too early in the grilling process because the sugars can burn quickly over high heat.
• Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
• If the bacon begins to crisp faster than the chicken cooks, move the kebabs to indirect heat to finish cooking.

Variations

• Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for extra juiciness.
• Add chunks of pineapple between the chicken pieces.
• Include bell peppers and red onions on the skewers.
• Substitute maple syrup for the honey.
• Use spicy barbecue sauce for extra heat.
• Add cayenne pepper to the glaze for a spicy kick.
• Try turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with coleslaw, baked beans, grilled corn, or potato salad for a complete barbecue meal.
• Pair with macaroni and cheese for a hearty comfort-food dinner.
• These kebabs also work well as a party appetizer when cut into smaller portions.
• Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips

• Marinate the chicken in a little barbecue sauce beforehand for even more flavor.
• Use thick-cut bacon for extra smoky richness.
• Turn the skewers often to prevent flare-ups.
• Keep a spray bottle of water nearby when grilling bacon to control flames.
• Allow the glaze to cool slightly before brushing for better consistency.
• Let the kebabs rest before serving to keep the chicken juicy.
• Double the glaze recipe if you like extra sauce.

Prep Time / Cook Time / Total Time

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Servings

Serves: 4 to 6 people

Nutritional Info (Approx.)

Calories: 520 per serving

Protein: 39g

Carbohydrates: 15g

Fat: 32g

Sugar: 11g

Fiber: 1g

FAQs

Can I make Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs without bourbon?

Yes. If you prefer not to use bourbon, simply replace it with apple juice, chicken broth, or additional barbecue sauce. The flavor profile will change slightly, but the kebabs will still be delicious and flavorful.

Can these kebabs be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the skewers several hours in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill. The glaze can also be prepared a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

What is the best chicken to use for kebabs?

Both chicken breasts and chicken thighs work well. Chicken thighs tend to remain slightly juicier due to their higher fat content, while chicken breasts provide a leaner option that still tastes fantastic when wrapped in bacon.

Can I cook these in the oven?

Yes. Bake the skewers at 425°F (220°C) for approximately 20 to 25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking. Brush with glaze during the final few minutes and broil briefly to caramelize the surface.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven, air fryer, or skillet until warmed through. They can also be sliced and added to salads, wraps, or rice bowls.

Conclusion

Bacon Bourbon BBQ Chicken Kebabs combine smoky bacon, juicy chicken, and a sweet bourbon barbecue glaze into one irresistible grilled dish. Perfect for cookouts, family dinners, and summer entertaining, these flavorful skewers deliver a wonderful balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors that everyone will love.