12 Sizzling Chicken Skewers For Your Next Summer Cookout

Get ready to fire up the grill with these 12 mouthwatering chicken skewers that are perfect for your summer cookouts! With a variety of flavors and marinades, there’s something here for everyone, whether you’re a backyard BBQ pro or just looking to impress your friends and family. Let’s get those skewers sizzling!

Chipotle Lime Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers with lime and cilantro

These Chipotle Lime Chicken Skewers are a must-have for your summer cookout! The vibrant colors of the grilled chicken, fresh lime, and cilantro create an inviting scene that’s hard to resist. The smoky chipotle flavor combined with the zesty lime makes each bite a burst of deliciousness.

To get started, you’ll need some chicken breast, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, and a few spices. Marinate the chicken for at least an hour to let those flavors soak in. Once marinated, thread the chicken onto skewers and grill them until they’re perfectly charred. Serve with fresh lime wedges and a sprinkle of cilantro for that extra pop!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Cilantro, for garnish
  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
  5. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with lime wedges and garnish with cilantro.

Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with Tzatziki

Mediterranean chicken skewers with tzatziki sauce on a plate

These Mediterranean chicken skewers are perfect for your next summer cookout. Juicy pieces of chicken are marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. The vibrant colors of bell peppers and onions add a fresh touch, making them not just tasty but also visually appealing.

Served alongside a creamy tzatziki sauce, these skewers bring a burst of flavor to your plate. The coolness of the tzatziki complements the warm, grilled chicken beautifully. It’s a dish that will impress your guests and keep everyone coming back for more!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
  3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  4. Make the Tzatziki: In a bowl, combine 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cucumber (grated and drained), 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 clove minced garlic, and salt to taste. Mix well.
  5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with the tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping.

Coconut Curry Chicken Skewers

Coconut curry chicken skewers served with rice and lime

These Coconut Curry Chicken Skewers are a delightful twist for your summer cookout. The juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a rich coconut curry sauce, bringing a taste of the tropics to your grill. The skewers are not only visually appealing but also packed with flavor, making them a hit at any gathering.

To prepare, start by cutting chicken breast into bite-sized pieces. Then, mix coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger, and a squeeze of lime juice to create a marinade. Let the chicken soak in this mixture for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Once marinated, thread the chicken onto skewers and grill them until they are golden brown and cooked through. Serve these skewers with a side of fluffy rice and a wedge of lime for an extra zing. Garnish with fresh cilantro to add a pop of color and freshness.

Here’s the full recipe to make these delicious Coconut Curry Chicken Skewers:

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 2 tablespoons curry powder
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine coconut milk, curry powder, garlic, ginger, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
  5. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Serve hot with rice and lime wedges. Enjoy!

Spicy Mango Chicken Skewers

Spicy mango chicken skewers on a bed of cilantro with lime wedges

Spicy Mango Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer cookouts. The vibrant orange color of the chicken, coated in a spicy mango marinade, makes them visually appealing. These skewers are not just a treat for the eyes; they pack a punch of flavor that will leave your guests wanting more.

The sweetness of mango combined with a kick of spice creates a delightful balance. Grilling these skewers adds a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Serve them on a bed of fresh cilantro and lime wedges for a refreshing touch. They’re easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a great option for any gathering.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into cubes
  • 1 ripe mango, pureed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the mango puree, olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked wooden skewers.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
  5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Grilled honey garlic chicken skewers on a barbecue grill

Honey garlic chicken skewers are a must-have for your summer cookout. These skewers are not just easy to make, but they also pack a punch with their sweet and savory flavor. The chicken pieces are marinated in a delicious honey garlic sauce, giving them a glossy finish that looks as good as it tastes.

As you grill these skewers, the aroma fills the air, making everyone eager to dig in. The combination of honey and garlic creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Serve them hot off the grill for a delightful treat that will have your guests coming back for more.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground ginger
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, olive oil, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with extra honey garlic sauce on the side for dipping.

Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with Pineapple

Delicious teriyaki chicken skewers with pineapple on a bamboo platter

Teriyaki chicken skewers with pineapple are a fantastic choice for summer cookouts. The combination of juicy chicken and sweet, caramelized pineapple creates a delightful flavor explosion. These skewers not only look appetizing but also bring a tropical vibe to your grilling sessions.

To make these skewers, start by marinating bite-sized pieces of chicken in a rich teriyaki sauce. This sauce is a blend of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger, which adds depth to the chicken. After marinating, alternate the chicken pieces with fresh pineapple chunks on skewers. The pineapple caramelizes beautifully on the grill, adding a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

Grilling these skewers is quick and easy. Just a few minutes on each side will give you that perfect char. Serve them hot off the grill, and watch your guests enjoy every bite!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken and pineapple chunks onto the skewers, alternating between the two.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with vegetable oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled chicken skewers with lemon and herbs on a wooden platter

These Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are perfect for summer cookouts. The juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty lemon and herb mixture, giving them a fresh and vibrant flavor. The skewers are beautifully grilled, showcasing those lovely char marks that add to the appeal.

Imagine serving these skewers at your next gathering. They not only look great on the plate but also offer a delightful taste that everyone will enjoy. Pair them with some fresh lemon slices and herbs for a pop of color and flavor.

To make these skewers, you’ll need some simple ingredients that are easy to find. The marinade is key, so don’t skip that step! It’s what makes the chicken tender and full of flavor.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
  4. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy the fresh, herbaceous flavors!

BBQ Chicken Skewers with Corn

Grilled chicken skewers with corn on a table, ready for a summer cookout.

Summer cookouts are all about great food, and BBQ chicken skewers with corn are a perfect choice. These skewers are not just easy to make; they also bring a burst of flavor that everyone will love. Imagine juicy pieces of chicken, marinated and grilled to perfection, paired with sweet, charred corn on the cob. It’s a match made in summer heaven!

The image shows beautifully grilled chicken skewers, glistening with a savory glaze, resting on a plate. Next to them, you can see perfectly roasted corn, showcasing those appealing grill marks. The vibrant colors of the food are inviting and make your mouth water. A bottle of BBQ sauce sits ready for those who want to add an extra kick.

To make these skewers, you’ll need some simple ingredients and a bit of time to marinate the chicken. The grilling process is quick, and soon enough, you’ll have a delicious meal that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 ears of corn, husked
  • BBQ sauce for serving

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. While it’s heating, soak wooden skewers in water for about 15 minutes to prevent burning.
  3. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
  4. Grill the Corn: Place the corn on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until charred and tender.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Serve: Remove everything from the grill. Serve the chicken skewers with the grilled corn and your favorite BBQ sauce on the side.

Buffalo Chicken Skewers with Blue Cheese

Buffalo chicken skewers with blue cheese on a colorful outdoor table setting

Buffalo chicken skewers are a fantastic choice for your summer cookout. These skewers are packed with flavor and are sure to be a hit with your guests. The bright orange color of the chicken, coated in spicy buffalo sauce, contrasts beautifully with the creamy blue cheese crumbles on top. This dish not only looks appealing but also brings a delightful kick to the table.

Imagine serving these skewers at your next gathering. They are easy to grab and eat, making them perfect for mingling. The combination of spicy chicken and tangy blue cheese creates a mouthwatering experience. Pair them with some fresh veggies or a cool dip for a complete snack.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken pieces with buffalo sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  3. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  4. Serve: Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Sprinkle blue cheese crumbles on top while they are still hot. Serve with extra buffalo sauce on the side.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers

Delicious garlic parmesan chicken skewers drizzled with sauce and garnished with parsley.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers are a must-try for your next cookout. These skewers are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for summer grilling. The golden-brown chicken pieces are beautifully charred, giving them a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich garlic and Parmesan sauce drizzled on top.

The skewers are not just tasty; they also look fantastic on the grill or served at the table. The fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a pop of color and freshness, making them visually appealing. Serve these alongside your favorite dipping sauces for an extra kick!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill.
  4. Grill the Skewers: Cook the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  5. Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with any remaining garlic Parmesan sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Herbed Yogurt Chicken Skewers

Herbed yogurt chicken skewers with colorful vegetables and a yogurt dip

Herbed yogurt chicken skewers are a perfect choice for your summer cookout. These skewers are not just tasty; they are also colorful and inviting. The chicken is marinated in a creamy yogurt mixture, packed with herbs that bring out fresh flavors. The vibrant veggies on the skewers add a nice crunch and a pop of color, making them a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Grilling these skewers gives them a lovely char, enhancing the flavors even more. Serve them with a side of herbed yogurt dip for a refreshing touch. It’s a simple recipe that everyone will love!

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup plain yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes
  • Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add chicken cubes and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto the soaked skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables.
  3. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  4. Serve: Remove from the grill and serve hot with herbed yogurt dip on the side. Enjoy your delicious herbed yogurt chicken skewers!

Sweet Chili Chicken Skewers

Delicious sweet chili chicken skewers served with dipping sauces

Sweet chili chicken skewers are a fantastic addition to any summer cookout. These skewers are not just visually appealing but also packed with flavor. The chicken is marinated in a sweet and spicy chili sauce, giving it a delightful kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky char from the grill.

In the image, you can see beautifully grilled chicken pieces, perfectly threaded onto skewers. The golden-brown color indicates that they are cooked to perfection, and the juicy texture is sure to impress your guests. Accompanying the skewers are vibrant dipping sauces, adding an extra layer of flavor to each bite.

These skewers are easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making them a great choice for your next gathering. Serve them as an appetizer or as part of a main course alongside fresh salads and grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and lime juice. Add the chicken pieces and mix well. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
  3. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  4. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!