These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a tasty treat that’s super fun to eat! Juicy chicken pieces are paired with crispy bacon and colorful veggies, all drizzled with delicious ranch dressing.
Cooking these kabobs feels like a party on a stick! They’re perfect for sharing or just enjoying on your own. I love grilling them outside and letting everyone pick their favorites. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish. I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breast for easy prep. If you’re looking for a substitute, turkey breast or tofu can work well for a lighter option.
Bacon: The bacon adds flavor and juiciness. I use regular bacon, but turkey bacon is a great lower-fat alternative. You could also skip the bacon completely for a healthier choice or use prosciutto for a different twist.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: The ranch seasoning is key for flavor. If you don’t have a packet, you can mix your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist and helps the seasoning stick. Canola oil or avocado oil are perfect substitutes if you prefer. Just choose something with a high smoke point for grilling!
How Do I Grill Kabobs Without Losing My Chicken to the Grill?
Grilling kabobs can be a bit tricky, especially when it comes to keeping them intact. Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to using them. This helps prevent burning on the grill.
- When assembling, make sure to not overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between the pieces for even cooking.
- Oil your grill grates lightly before placing the kabobs on to reduce sticking.
- Rotate the kabobs gently every few minutes to help achieve a nice, even char.
Following these tips will help you get delicious, golden-brown kabobs without losing any chicken pieces to the grill!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kabobs:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 slices bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
Optional:
- Fresh lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish—quick and delicious for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help the kabobs cook evenly and get that delicious grilled flavor!
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, add the bite-sized pieces of chicken breast. Pour in the olive oil, sprinkle the ranch seasoning, and add salt and pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are well coated with the mixture. This ensures each bite is full of flavor!
3. Wrap with Bacon:
Now it’s time to wrap! Take a piece of bacon and wrap it snugly around each piece of chicken. Secure the bacon with a skewer as you go—this will keep everything together while grilling. Repeat this step until all the chicken is wrapped and placed on the skewers.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally so they grill evenly. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C) and the bacon looks crispy.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs on a platter with fresh lettuce leaves, if you’d like. You can use the lettuce for wrapping the kabobs for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the chicken completely before preparing the kabobs. The best way to thaw chicken is to leave it in the refrigerator overnight or place it in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water for a few hours. Once thawed, pat the chicken dry to ensure the seasoning sticks well.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own ranch seasoning by combining one tablespoon of dried parsley, one teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried dill, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it well and use it in place of the packet for a homemade touch!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, a quick pass on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes works best to keep them crispy. You can also heat them in the microwave, but they may lose some of their crispy texture.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes make excellent additions. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken, and thread them on the skewers alongside the chicken for extra flavor and color. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as vegetables may cook faster than the chicken.
