Bourbon Chicken Skewers

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Sticky, smoky, sweet, and savory – Bourbon Chicken Skewers are everything you want in a backyard grilling recipe. These golden-glazed beauties are kissed by the grill and soaked in a glossy bourbon sauce that clings to every juicy bite of chicken. They’re irresistibly tender, thanks to a simple marinade that infuses each skewer with bold Southern-inspired flavor.

Whether you’re hosting a weekend cookout or planning an easy weeknight dinner, this crowd-pleaser delivers big taste with minimal effort. Serve them with dipping sauce on the side and let the smoky aroma do all the talking. They’re perfect for sharing, but don’t be surprised if they disappear fast.

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Why You’ll Love This Bourbon Chicken Skewers Recipe

These skewers check all the right boxes. The flavor is rich and well-balanced, combining brown sugar, garlic, soy sauce, and bourbon for that sweet-and-savory combo. The caramelized edges add texture, while the juicy center stays tender. Bonus: they grill quickly and work well with both gas and charcoal grills.

You’ll also love how versatile they are. Serve them at barbecues, game day parties, or make them part of your weeknight rotation. The leftovers (if you have any) are just as delicious.

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What Kind of Bourbon Should I Use?

A mid-range bourbon works beautifully in this recipe. You don’t need anything too fancy—just one that you wouldn’t mind sipping. The alcohol cooks off during grilling, leaving behind a warm, slightly smoky flavor. If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute with apple juice mixed with a splash of apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic version that still delivers depth.

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Ingredients for the Bourbon Chicken Skewers

When it comes to building deep flavor, every ingredient in these skewers plays a vital role:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean, protein-packed, and perfect for soaking up the marinade.
• Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami depth to balance the sweetness.
• Brown sugar: Gives the glaze its signature sticky sweetness and caramelization.
• Bourbon: Brings warmth and complexity to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds savory pungency that pairs well with the bourbon.
• Ginger: A hint of spice and freshness to brighten the marinade.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a bit of tang to cut through the richness.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the glaze for perfect cling.
• Wooden skewers: Soak them before grilling to prevent burning.

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How To Make the Bourbon Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks. In a large bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, bourbon, garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar. Add the chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Skewer the Chicken

Thread marinated chicken pieces onto soaked wooden skewers. Don’t overcrowd—leave a little space between pieces for even cooking.

Step 3: Make the Bourbon Glaze

Transfer the leftover marinade to a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then whisk in cornstarch mixed with water. Stir until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with the bourbon glaze until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred.

Step 5: Serve with Extra Sauce

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or green onions. Don’t forget a side of extra glaze for dipping.

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Serving and Storing Bourbon Chicken Skewers

These skewers serve 4 to 6 people, depending on portion sizes and side dishes. Serve them fresh off the grill for the best texture and flavor.

To store leftovers, place cooled skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or gently warm them in a skillet. The glaze will still taste great!

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What to Serve With Bourbon Chicken Skewers?

Grilled Pineapple Slices

Sweet and tangy pineapple pairs beautifully with the smoky bourbon glaze.

Garlic Butter Rice

A fluffy, buttery rice side to soak up the extra sauce.

Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad

A refreshing, protein-rich salad to balance the bold flavors. Try our Avocado Egg and Chickpea Salad.

Easy Veggie Patties

Add a crispy, veggie-based side to round out your meal. Easy Veggie Patties are a perfect match.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Brush with chili-lime butter for a little kick.

Macaroni Salad

Classic and creamy—always a barbecue favorite.

Coleslaw

Crunchy, creamy, and cooling. Adds contrast to the warm skewers.

Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs

Feeling indulgent? These Cheeseburger Bombs make a satisfying companion.

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Want More Chicken Ideas?

If you loved these Bourbon Chicken Skewers, here are more flavorful chicken dishes to explore:

• Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken with a golden, cheesy topping.
• Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole for a cozy, layered comfort meal.
• Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs that pack a cheesy, garlicky punch.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich, velvety option.
• Homemade Pollo Loco with smoky grilled flavor and bold seasoning.

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use bourbon or try a substitute? Did you go for a spicy version? I love seeing the ways you all make it your own.

Explore more health-boosting, flavor-packed dishes on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy favorite!

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