Sizzling BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers Recipe for Summer

Juicy bbq beer-marinated chicken skewers promise a flavor explosion that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Crisp beer infuses each tender piece with unexpected depth and richness.

Marinades can transform ordinary protein into something extraordinary, and this recipe proves that point perfectly.

Summer gatherings call for bold, memorable dishes that spark conversation and delight.

Backyard cookouts reach new heights when you master this simple yet impressive technique.

Quick preparation meets maximum impact, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.

Your grill becomes a culinary playground with these mouthwatering skewers that blend classic barbecue charm with a craft beer twist.

Proper Storage for BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Wrap individual skewers tightly in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bags. Freeze for maximum 2 months to maintain best flavor and texture.

Place skewers on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Warm at 50% power in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to prevent drying out.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Arrange skewers on baking sheet, lightly cover with foil. Warm for 10-12 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring chicken stays juicy.

FAQs

• Why marinate chicken in beer?

Beer tenderizes meat by breaking down proteins, adding moisture and creating a deeper flavor profile that makes chicken more juicy and delicious.

• Can I use any type of beer for this recipe?

Lighter beers like lagers or pale ales work best, as they provide subtle flavor without overpowering the chicken’s taste.

• How long can I safely marinate chicken in beer?

Marinate chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours maximum to prevent the meat from becoming mushy and maintain food safety standards.

• What's the purpose of the BBQ rub in this recipe?

The BBQ rub adds layers of spice and seasoning, enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken and creating a delicious crust when grilled.

BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

• Boost Flavor Intensity: Beer and BBQ rub combine to create a mouthwatering marinade that infuses deep, rich flavors into every single chicken tender.
• Master Grilling Technique: Simple steps guide even novice cooks through a professional-style grilling process, ensuring perfectly cooked and juicy chicken skewers every single time.
• Quick Weekend Crowd-Pleaser: Minimal prep work and fast cooking make these skewers ideal for casual gatherings, backyard parties, and spontaneous get-togethers with friends and family.
• Versatile Cooking Method: Adaptable recipe works wonderfully for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking, giving you flexibility to enjoy delicious chicken regardless of weather conditions.

Ingredients Included in BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

• Chicken Tenders: Tender and lean meat that absorbs the marinade's flavors beautifully.

• Beer: Adds depth of flavor and helps tenderize the chicken with its natural enzymes.
• BBQ Rub: Provides a complex, smoky seasoning that enhances the overall taste of the skewers.

• Skewers: Wooden sticks that help in grilling and serving the chicken in an easy-to-handle format.
• Vegetable Oil: Helps prevent sticking and promotes even cooking on the grill.

How to Make BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare Wooden Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning during grilling. This helps protect the wood from catching fire and ensures even cooking of the chicken.

Step 2: Cut and Skewer Chicken

Slice chicken tenders into uniform pieces and carefully thread them onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers. Arrange the chicken evenly to allow for consistent cooking and attractive presentation.

Step 3: Create Flavorful Marinade

Whisk together beer and BBQ rub in a mixing bowl until the mixture becomes smooth and well-combined. Separate a small portion of the marinade into a separate container for later basting.

Step 4: Marinate Chicken

Generously coat the chicken skewers with the marinade, ensuring each piece is completely covered. Place the skewered chicken in the refrigerator and let it marinate for 30 minutes to enhance flavor and tenderness.

Step 5: Preheat Grill

Heat the grill to medium-high temperature, creating zones for direct and indirect cooking. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and promote beautiful grill marks.

Step 6: Initial Searing

Place skewers on the hot grill and sear for approximately 1 minute on each side. This technique helps develop a delicious caramelized exterior and locks in the chicken’s moisture.

Step 7: Slow Cooking and Basting

Move skewers to indirect heat, close the grill lid, and cook for 5 minutes. Brush the reserved marinade onto the chicken.

Flip the skewers and repeat the process until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Remove chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.

This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful meat. Serve hot and enjoy your perfectly grilled BBQ beer-marinated chicken skewers.

Tips That Perfect BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

• Use a dark, flavorful beer like stout or amber ale to enhance the chicken's taste profile.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading chicken to prevent charring during grilling.
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption and juicy texture.
• Allow skewers to rest for 5 minutes after cooking to help juices redistribute, keeping meat tender and moist.
• Customize the BBQ rub intensity by adding more or less seasoning to suit personal heat preferences.

Variations to Try on BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

• Spicy Habanero Kick: Replace BBQ rub with homemade habanero spice blend for extra heat and intensity.
• Citrus Infusion: Swap beer with orange juice and add lime zest to marinade for bright, tangy flavors.
• Smoky Maple Glaze: Mix BBQ rub with maple syrup instead of beer, creating a rich caramelized coating on chicken.
• Mediterranean Herb Version: Use white wine instead of beer and incorporate rosemary, thyme, and oregano for an aromatic Mediterranean profile.

Pairings That Complement BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers

• Pair with Hoppy IPA: Bold, citrusy Indian Pale Ale cuts through the rich BBQ marinade, enhancing the chicken's smoky flavors and creating a perfect flavor harmony.
• Complement with Coleslaw: Crisp, tangy cabbage salad provides a refreshing contrast to the beer-marinated chicken, balancing the meal's robust taste profile.
• Match with Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet, charred corn kernels mixed with herbs offer a light, summery side that elevates the skewers' complexity and adds textural variety.
• Serve with Zesty Potato Wedges: Crispy, seasoned potato wedges with a hint of spice create a satisfying accompaniment that stands up to the bold chicken flavors.

Bbq Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 52 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Sizzling BBQ Beer-Marinated Chicken Skewers bring smoky Mediterranean flavors to your summer grill with tender, juicy meat infused with hoppy undertones. Crisp herbs and zesty marinade promise a perfect outdoor feast you’ll crave all season long.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) chicken tenders
• 2 pounds (907 grams) chicken breast (cut into strips)

Marinade Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons honey BBQ dry rub (e.g., KC Masterpiece)
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) beer (lager or IPA)

Preparation Tools:

• Wooden skewers (soaked for 20 minutes)

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Instructions

1. Prepare wooden skewers by soaking them in water to prevent burning during grilling.
2. Arrange chicken tenders carefully onto the pre-soaked skewers, ensuring even spacing.
3. Create a flavorful marinade by thoroughly blending BBQ rub with beer until a uniform mixture forms.
4. Separate and set aside 1/3 cup of the marinade for later basting.
5. Generously coat the assembled skewers with the remaining marinade, ensuring complete coverage.
6. Allow chicken skewers to marinate in the refrigerator for approximately 30 minutes to enhance flavor absorption.
7. Preheat grill to medium-high heat for optimal cooking conditions.
8. Quickly sear skewers over direct heat for 60 seconds on each side to develop a caramelized exterior.
9. Apply the reserved marinade across the skewers and close grill lid to create a consistent cooking environment.
10. Cook for 5 minutes, then carefully flip skewers and repeat the process.
11. Continue grilling until chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring thorough cooking.
12. Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
13. Serve hot and enjoy the beer-infused, smoky flavored chicken skewers.

Notes

• Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling, ensuring they won’t catch fire and ruin your delicious chicken.
• Choose a robust beer like a pale ale or amber lager that complements the BBQ rub, adding depth and complexity to the marinade’s flavor profile.
• Marinate chicken for no longer than 30 minutes to prevent the beer’s acids from breaking down the meat’s texture, keeping it tender and juicy.
• For a gluten-free version, swap regular beer with gluten-free beer and use a certified gluten-free BBQ rub to accommodate dietary restrictions.

• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks, Cocktails
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 213 kcal
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 3 g
• Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 11 g
• Fiber: 0.5 g
• Protein: 27 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg