These Buffalo Chicken Skewers are a perfect balance of fiery heat and tender, juicy chicken. The smoky char from the grill and the tangy, bold buffalo sauce come together for a deliciously addictive combination. This recipe is perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a backyard BBQ, a family dinner, or just a quick snack. You can customize the level of heat by adjusting the buffalo sauce to your taste and serve them with cooling ranch or blue cheese dressing for the ultimate flavor experience.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
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1/2 cup buffalo sauce
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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1 tablespoon honey (optional, for sweetness)
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
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Wooden or metal skewers
Directions:
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Preheat your grill or oven to medium-high heat.
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In a bowl, combine the buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and honey. Stir well to create the marinade.
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Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and coat them evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to marinate.
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Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
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Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred on the outside.
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Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
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Serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side for dipping.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 280 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Buffalo Chicken Skewers are a mouthwatering dish that brings together the flavors of tender grilled chicken and the zesty heat of buffalo sauce. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, this recipe is a sure-fire crowd-pleaser. The beauty of Buffalo Chicken Skewers lies in their simplicity, versatility, and ability to deliver bold flavors in every bite.
A Brief History of Buffalo Chicken
The origin of Buffalo chicken dates back to the 1960s in Buffalo, New York. The now-famous Buffalo wings were created at the Anchor Bar, where they invented the iconic spicy, tangy sauce. Since then, Buffalo-style chicken has evolved into various forms, from wings to sandwiches to wraps, and now, skewers. The idea of skewering chicken allows for a fun and customizable way to enjoy this beloved dish while still retaining the vibrant flavors.
Why Buffalo Chicken Skewers Are the Best
Buffalo Chicken Skewers are the perfect dish for anyone who loves bold, spicy food. Here’s why they stand out:
1. Perfect Balance of Heat and Flavor
The Buffalo sauce used in this recipe is the star of the dish, delivering that signature spicy, tangy kick. Combined with the smoky char from the grill, these skewers offer a harmonious blend of heat and flavor that’ll satisfy your taste buds. The addition of honey in the marinade provides a slight sweetness that balances out the heat, making it more approachable for all spice tolerance levels.
2. Quick and Easy to Prepare
What makes this recipe so appealing is how simple and quick it is to make. In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious, restaurant-quality dish on your plate. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Healthier Option Than Traditional Fried Wings
While Buffalo wings are typically deep-fried, Buffalo Chicken Skewers provide a healthier alternative. Grilling the chicken instead of frying it reduces the amount of added fat and calories, making this recipe a lighter yet equally satisfying option for those who love the taste of Buffalo chicken but want to keep it on the healthier side.
4. Customizable for Different Dietary Preferences
This recipe can be easily tailored to accommodate various dietary needs. For example, you can use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option, or opt for grilled vegetables alongside the chicken to create a vegetarian version. Adjusting the level of spice in the sauce also allows you to make it mild or extra hot depending on your preferences.
Benefits of Grilling Chicken
Grilling chicken not only enhances its flavor with a smoky, charred exterior, but it also offers several health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why grilling chicken is a great cooking method:
1. Retains Nutrients
Grilling chicken helps retain most of its nutrients because it requires less oil and water, unlike other cooking methods that may leach out valuable vitamins and minerals. Grilling also ensures that the chicken stays juicy while retaining its natural flavors.
2. Reduces Fat Content
When chicken is grilled, excess fat drips off, making it a healthier cooking option. It’s an excellent way to reduce the fat content in your meal without sacrificing flavor.
3. Faster Cooking Time
Grilling chicken skewers cooks the meat quickly and evenly, allowing the chicken to retain its tenderness. The fast cooking time also ensures that the meat doesn’t dry out, making for a juicy, flavorful bite every time.
How to Make the Best Buffalo Chicken Skewers
To make sure your Buffalo Chicken Skewers come out perfectly, here are a few tips and tricks:
1. Marinate the Chicken for Maximum Flavor
Allow the chicken to marinate in the buffalo sauce mixture for at least 15 minutes before grilling. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce, making each bite more delicious. For an extra flavor boost, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours if you have the time.
2. Use the Right Skewers
Whether you’re using wooden or metal skewers, it’s essential to make sure the skewers are properly prepared before grilling. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading the chicken on them to prevent them from burning on the grill.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers
When threading the chicken onto the skewers, be sure to leave a little space between each piece. This will allow the heat to circulate evenly around the chicken, ensuring that it cooks perfectly on all sides.
4. Get the Grill Hot
To achieve the perfect grill marks and crisp exterior, ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This will allow the chicken to sear on the outside while remaining tender and juicy inside.
Serving Suggestions
Buffalo Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing them with side dishes. Here are a few ideas to round out your meal:
1. Fresh Vegetables and Dips
Serve your skewers with a side of crunchy veggies like celery, carrots, or cucumber, along with a creamy dip like ranch or blue cheese dressing. The coolness of the veggies and dip perfectly complements the heat of the chicken.
2. A Fresh Salad
Pairing your skewers with a crisp green salad is a great way to add a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken. A light vinaigrette will balance out the bold flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
3. Fries or Sweet Potato Fries
For a heartier side, serve your skewers with a side of golden fries or sweet potato fries. These are perfect for dipping into the extra buffalo sauce for an added kick.
Conclusion
Buffalo Chicken Skewers are a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make, versatile, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or preparing a fun appetizer, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Not only do they offer the irresistible flavor of Buffalo chicken, but they also provide a healthier, lighter alternative to traditional fried wings. So fire up your grill, grab some chicken, and get ready to enjoy these delicious skewers that are perfect for any gathering or family meal.
