Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites: Easy Recipe for BBQ Lovers
Introduction
If you love BBQ and are looking for a simple, tasty dish, look no further than Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites. These tender pieces of chicken are bursting with flavor and are perfect for any gathering. Easy to make and quick to cook, this recipe will be your go-to for summer cookouts!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare. Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites are perfect for BBQ lovers who want something quick and flavorful. It’s a great dish for parties, family dinners, or a casual night in. Plus, you can customize the marinade to suit your taste!
How to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Bamboo or metal skewers (if using bamboo, soak in water for 30 minutes)
- Fresh parsley (chopped) – optional garnish
- Lemon wedges – optional garnish
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Add the bite-size chicken pieces to the bowl, coating them fully in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for up to 2 hours.
- After marinating, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This is key for getting great grill marks on your chicken.
- Place the skewers on the grill. Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, until chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Cooking times can vary, so keep an eye on them.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your bites juicy and full of flavor. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges.
How to Serve Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites
Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites are delicious served warm right off the grill. You can serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or even in wraps and salads. Pair with a refreshing drink and your favorite sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or grilled veggies for a complete meal.
How to Store Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or on the grill to keep them juicy. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just make sure they are well-sealed.
Tips to Make Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites
- For extra tenderness, pound the chicken pieces slightly before marinating.
- Experiment with different spices in the marinade for unique flavors.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill—give the chicken enough space for even cooking.
Variation
You can easily make these chicken bites with other types of protein, like shrimp or beef. For a more spicy kick, add some chili flakes or hot sauce to the marinade.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will work great and provide even more flavor due to their fat content.
2. How can I make the chicken bites spicy?
Add chili flakes, sriracha, or your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a kick.
3. Can I grill vegetables with the chicken?
Absolutely! Veggies like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini are great on the grill alongside chicken bites.
Now you’re ready to impress your friends and family with these Juicy Grilled Chicken Bites! Enjoy making and sharing this tasty dish at your next BBQ or gathering.
