How to Cook Chicken Skewers on BBQ: Juicy, Flavorful, and Easy Every Time

Grilling chicken skewers on a BBQ is one of the simplest — and tastiest — ways to bring the whole family together.

Whether it’s a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, skewers make BBQ chicken easy to cook, serve, and enjoy.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to cook chicken skewers on a BBQ so they come out juicy, not dry, and packed with smoky flavor every time.

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Choose the Right Chicken

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are the best option for skewers.

They stay juicy on the grill and cook evenly.

Chicken breasts work too — but you’ll need to watch them closely to avoid drying out.

Cut the chicken into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces.

Too small and they’ll overcook fast.

Too big and they might char outside before they’re done inside.

Marinate for Maximum Flavor

Marinating your chicken does two things:

it adds flavor and keeps the meat moist.

Here’s a simple marinade you can mix in a zip-top bag:

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

Let the chicken marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for deeper flavor.

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Want to know more about what makes BBQ chicken taste so good? Learn how BBQ chicken is made.

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Use Skewers That Work for You

If you’re using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.

This keeps them from burning.

Metal skewers don’t need soaking — and they’re reusable.

Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each chunk so the heat can circulate.

Want to add vegetables?

Thread bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the chicken pieces.

Just make sure they’re cut to the same size for even cooking.

Preheat and Clean Your Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F).

While it’s heating up, take a minute to clean the grates.

🔥 Pro tip: A clean grill prevents sticking. If you’re tired of typical wire brushes breaking off, try Easy Function’s unbreakable bristle brush. It’s safe, sturdy, and fits most grate types — perfect for quick cleanups before and after grilling.

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Oil the Grill Grates

Dip a folded paper towel in a little oil.

Hold it with tongs and rub it across the hot grill grates.

This helps prevent sticking and gives your skewers a great sear.

Grill the Chicken Skewers

Place the skewers directly on the hot grill.

Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes so all sides cook evenly.

The chicken is done when:

• The outside is golden with slight char marks

• The inside is white, not pink

• Juices run clear

• Internal temperature reaches 165°F

Using a meat thermometer?

That’s the best way to be sure.

Or use a BBQ temperature magnet like the Easy Function Meat Temperature Magnet to keep proper doneness temps at your fingertips.

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Buy Easy Function Meat Temp Guide - Amazon USA

Rest and Serve

After pulling your skewers off the grill, let them rest for 3–5 minutes.

This helps the juices stay inside the meat.

Serve them as-is or with a dipping sauce — yogurt garlic, BBQ, or a spicy peanut sauce work great.

You can pair the skewers with rice, grilled veggies, or wrap them in flatbread for a killer BBQ chicken wrap.

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Serving outdoors? Be sure you know the safe time limit. How long can BBQ chicken sit out.

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Final Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers on the BBQ

• Don’t crowd the skewers on the grill. Give them space.

• Keep the lid closed between turns to trap heat and flavor.

• If you see flare-ups, move skewers to indirect heat until flames settle.

• Add a touch of glaze (like BBQ sauce) during the last 2 minutes if you want a sticky finish.

Grilling chicken skewers is easier than you think — and once you’ve tried it, you’ll want to make it a regular part of your BBQ routine.

Whether you’re cooking for two or twenty, the steps above will help you do it right.

Want to make your grilling even easier?

Click the image to check out our full range of BBQ tools and accessories from Easy Function.