Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

There’s something about the sweetness of honey combined with the tanginess of balsamic vinegar that just makes my heart sing. That’s why I love making Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers during the warm summer months. Whenever I fire up the grill, my family gathers around, excited for the feast to come. The smell of the chicken sizzling and the sweet aroma of honey caramelizing is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. These skewers have become a staple for our summer gatherings, where friends and family come together to enjoy good food and great company. Plus, they’re so easy to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
60 mins
Prep Time:
0 mins
Cook Time:
0 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
250 kcal
Protein:
30 g
Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
Fat:
8 g
Tools Used:
Whisk, Mixing Bowl

What We Adore About This Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

1. Flavor Explosion

The combination of balsamic vinegar and honey creates a unique flavor profile that excites the palate. The sweetness from the honey balances the acidity of the balsamic, making every bite a delightful experience.

2. Perfect for Summer

There’s nothing quite like grilling in the summer air. These Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy outdoor cooking. They’re quick to prepare and grill, allowing you to spend more time with family and friends.

3. Versatile Dish

While these skewers are perfect on their own, you can also serve them with a variety of sides. From fresh salads to grilled veggies, the options are endless, making them an incredibly versatile dish.

4. Kid-Friendly

Kids love skewers! The fun presentation and sweet flavors make these Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers a hit with little ones. It’s an excellent way to introduce them to different flavors without overwhelming their taste buds.

5. Easy Preparation

With just a few ingredients, these skewers are a breeze to put together. The marinating time can also be made in advance, allowing you to prepare everything ahead of time for a stress-free meal.

Ingredients Required for Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

The ingredients for Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers are simple yet flavorful. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of sweet and savory. The chicken serves as a fantastic canvas, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the marinade, while the balsamic vinegar and honey create that irresistible glaze.

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts – about 2 breasts, cut into 1-inch chunks for easy grilling.
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar – adds a tangy depth to the marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil – helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling.
  • 1 clove garlic minced – infuses the marinade with aromatic flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons honey divided – provides sweetness and helps caramelize the chicken.
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary minced – adds a fragrant herbal note; additional for garnish.
  • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper – seasoning to enhance the flavors.

Step by Step Instructions for Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Grilling these skewers is an adventure that brings everyone together. Follow these simple steps to create your own batch of delicious Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers. Don’t rush the marinating process; it’s key for infusing flavor!

  1. Gather 3 to 5 wooden skewers and place them in a shallow plate with water for thirty minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
  2. Trim the chicken breasts of any extra fat. Cut them into 1-inch chunks and set aside. Make sure the pieces are even for consistent cooking.
  3. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of rosemary. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This mixture will be the marinade that brings everything to life.
  4. Add the chunks of chicken breast to the marinade and mix until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one to two hours. Allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors is essential for a delicious outcome.
  5. Preheat your grill to high heat. Thread the marinated chicken chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
  6. Spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Once it’s hot, reduce the heat to medium-high.
  7. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook the chicken for three to five minutes on each side while basting with the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey. This will create a beautiful glaze on the chicken.
  8. Continue turning the skewers until the chicken is cooked through, about ten minutes total. The chicken should be opaque and have nice grill marks.
  9. Once done, let the skewers sit for two to three minutes off the grill. This helps retain the juices.
  10. Serve the skewers warm, drizzled with more honey if desired, and garnished with additional rosemary. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Marinating Time: The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it absorbs. I recommend at least one hour, but two is better.
  • Grilling Tips: Keep an eye on the grill temperature. Too high, and the chicken may burn before cooking through; too low, and it won’t get that nice char.
  • Serving Options: These skewers pair beautifully with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
  • Checking Doneness: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C).

How to Switch It Up

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to add your own twist to these Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers. Here are some ideas to inspire you!

  • Storage: Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken skewers before cooking. Just thaw and grill when ready, making it a perfect meal prep option.
  • Pairing: Consider serving these skewers with a light quinoa salad or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
  • Add Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers, zucchini, or onions to the skewers for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade if you prefer a little heat in your dish!

Pairing Suggestions for Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Wondering how to serve your Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers? Here’s a list of ideas to elevate your meal:

  • Fresh Salad: Pair these skewers with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
  • Grilled Vegetables: Serve with a side of grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a complete meal.
  • Rice: Consider a side of fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious balsamic glaze.
  • Summer BBQ: These skewers are perfect for summer cookouts, offering a delicious option for family and friends.
  • Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with fresh herbs and a lemon dressing would complement the flavors of the skewers beautifully.

FAQ

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute for chicken breasts in Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers. They will add more flavor and moisture to the skewers. Just ensure they’re cut into similar-sized chunks so they cook evenly. Enjoy the added richness!

You can marinate the chicken in the balsamic and honey mixture for a minimum of one hour, but for the best flavor, aim for two hours. If you’re short on time, even thirty minutes will help, but the longer, the better! Just be sure not to go over four hours as the acid in the balsamic can change the texture of the chicken.

For the best results, preheat your grill to a high temperature first, then reduce it to medium-high once you place the skewers on. This will help seal in the juices and achieve those beautiful grill marks. Make sure to keep an eye on cooking times, turning the skewers occasionally for even cooking.

Yes, you can prepare the marinated chicken skewers a day in advance. Simply assemble them and keep them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill. This makes it easy for you to entertain without feeling rushed when it’s time to eat!

Conclusion

The Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers are a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors that will impress at any gathering. They are not only easy to make but also a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy. I encourage you to give them a try at your next barbecue or family dinner. You’ll love how simple they are to prepare and how delicious they taste!

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers

Craving something sweet and savory? Try these Balsamic Honey Chicken Skewers for an easy weeknight dinner. Juicy chicken chunks marinated in a luscious balsamic and honey glaze are grilled to perfection. You won't want to miss out on making this delightful dish tonight!
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts about 2 breasts
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons honey divided
  • 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary minced plus more for garnish
  • to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Equipment

  • Whisk
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

  1. Gather 3 to 5 wooden skewers and place them in a shallow plate with water for thirty minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
  2. Trim the chicken breasts of any extra fat. Cut them into 1-inch chunks and set aside. Make sure the pieces are even for consistent cooking.
  3. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 teaspoon of rosemary. Add a generous pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. This mixture will be the marinade that brings everything to life.
  4. Add the chunks of chicken breast to the marinade and mix until they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for one to two hours. Allowing the chicken to soak in the flavors is essential for a delicious outcome.
  5. Preheat your grill to high heat. Thread the marinated chicken chunks onto the soaked wooden skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
  6. Spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with olive oil. Once it’s hot, reduce the heat to medium-high.
  7. Place the skewers on the grill. Cook the chicken for three to five minutes on each side while basting with the remaining 2 tablespoons of honey. This will create a beautiful glaze on the chicken.
  8. Continue turning the skewers until the chicken is cooked through, about ten minutes total. The chicken should be opaque and have nice grill marks.
  9. Once done, let the skewers sit for two to three minutes off the grill. This helps retain the juices.
  10. Serve the skewers warm, drizzled with more honey if desired, and garnished with additional rosemary. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Notes

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the grill.

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