These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and delicious ranch flavor. Perfect for grilling, they make a fun and tasty meal for everyone!
Who doesn’t love bacon on a stick? I always whip these up for barbecues, and they disappear in no time! Pair them with a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s easy to enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless chicken breast is the go-to choice for these kabobs. If you’re looking for something different, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier flavor or even turkey breast if that’s what you have on hand.
Bacon: Regular bacon works best for these kabobs because it crisps up nicely on the grill. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon is a great substitute, though it may not get as crisp.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: For the seasoning, store-bought ranch mix is easy and convenient. If you want a homemade version, mix equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Adjust to taste! You can also use a different dry seasoning mix if ranch isn’t your favorite.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and promotes even cooking. You can swap it with melted butter or avocado oil for a twist in flavor.
Fresh Lettuce Leaves: These add a nice crunch. If you don’t have lettuce, feel free to use spinach or even thin slices of cucumber as a base.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Chicken Kabobs Without Drying Them Out?
The key to juicy chicken kabobs is marinating and even cooking. First, ensure to coat the chicken well with the ranch seasoning and olive oil. This will help keep it moist. Grill over medium-high heat, turning them regularly to get even cooking and that lovely char without burning.
- Before grilling, make sure your grill is preheated well; this helps sear the outside of the chicken quickly.
- Don’t crowd the skewer; space them out to ensure heat circulates evenly.
- Check the chicken with a meat thermometer; it should reach 165°F to be safe and juicy.
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 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill. So, in total, you’ll need about 30-35 minutes to make these delicious chicken bacon ranch kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get the Grill Ready:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your kabobs cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, add the chicken cubes along with the ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are well-coated with the seasoning. This is where all the delicious flavor comes from!
3. Wrap the Chicken:
Take a piece of the halved bacon and wrap it around each marinated chicken cube. Make sure to secure the bacon well. Then, thread each wrapped piece onto skewers. You can alternate the chicken and bacon for a fun presentation!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Once all the chicken and bacon are skewered, carefully place the kabobs on your preheated grill. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has beautiful grill marks, and the bacon is nice and crispy.
5. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve the kabobs over a bed of fresh lettuce leaves for a crisp and refreshing touch. Enjoy your tasty chicken bacon ranch kabobs!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that it may not get as crispy as regular bacon, but it will still add flavor. Cook the kabobs until the turkey bacon is golden brown for best results.
How Do I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
If you prefer to cook these kabobs in the oven, preheat it to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is crispy.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great way to enhance the flavor! Just make sure to keep it in an airtight container or a resealable bag in the fridge. If you’re worried about the bacon getting too soggy, you can wrap the chicken right before grilling instead.
What’s the Best Way 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 skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick option. Enjoy them on a salad or as a protein-packed snack!
