These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy grilled chicken! Juicy chicken pieces are paired with crispy bacon and colorful veggies, all soaked in ranch flavor.
Who doesn’t love a stick of goodness? I always sneak a few extra pieces while grilling. It’s hard to resist their deliciousness when they smell this good! 😋
These kabobs are super easy to make! Just thread the ingredients onto skewers and grill them to perfection. Serve with a side salad, and you’ve got a great meal ready in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe uses chicken breast for a lean option. You can substitute it with chicken thighs if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. Thighs work just as well for grilling.
Bacon: Regular bacon is great, but for a healthier option, try turkey bacon. It won’t get as crispy but will still add flavor. If you want to avoid bacon altogether, consider using prosciutto for a different texture.
Ranch Seasoning: You can make your own seasoning by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder with a little buttermilk powder. This option is handy if you’re avoiding packaged mixes.
Olive Oil: Feel free to use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil. They’re good at high temperatures and also healthy choices when grilling.
Lettuce Leaves: While optional, provides a crunchy base. You can swap out lettuce with spinach or kale for a different look and taste.
How Do I Grill Kabobs Without Them Sticking?
Grilling kabobs can be a challenge if they stick to the grill. Here are some tips to help you achieve those beautiful grilled marks without the hassle:
- Preheat your grill properly; this is essential! A hot surface helps prevent sticking.
- Oil the grill grates with a paper towel dipped in oil. This creates a non-stick surface.
- Use metal skewers, if possible, as they conduct heat well and help cook evenly, reducing sticking.
- Don’t move the kabobs too soon. Let them cook on one side before flipping for that perfect sear.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Lettuce leaves (for serving, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 12 minutes to cook on the grill. So, you can have your Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs ready in about 30 minutes—perfect for a tasty lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important to make sure your kabobs cook evenly and the bacon gets nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes with the ranch seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to make sure every piece is coated well with the delicious seasoning mix.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take a half-slice of bacon and wrap it around each chicken cube. Then, secure it with a skewer, threading through both the bacon and chicken to hold it all together. Repeat this step until all your chicken cubes are wrapped and skewered!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place your assembled kabobs onto the hot grill. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally so they cook evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in the chicken—yummy!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs on a platter lined with lettuce leaves, if you like. Grab a kabob, take a big bite, and enjoy the fabulous flavors!
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the chicken is fully thawed before marinating. You can thaw chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method: place it in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about an hour. Pat it dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create your own by mixing equal parts of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a bit of salt. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will bring a similar flavor to your kabobs!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. This will help keep the bacon crispy!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place your skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
