These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy a meal! Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch come together on skewers for easy grilling.
Who doesn’t love bacon? I can’t help but steal a piece while I’m cooking! 😄 These kabobs are great for a summer barbecue or even a cozy night in.
I love how simple they are to put together! Just marinate the chicken, wrap it in bacon, and grill. Perfect for impressing friends or treating yourself after a long day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they cook evenly. If you’re looking for a change, you can use chicken thighs for a juicier bite, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Bacon: Regular bacon adds great flavor, but turkey bacon is a leaner alternative if you’re watching calories. For a twist, try prosciutto or even veggie bacon for a plant-based version.
Ranch Seasoning: This packs in tons of flavor! If you prefer homemade, mix dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. But any seasoning blend you love can work, such as Italian or Greek herbs.
Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil adds moisture. You could substitute it with avocado oil or even melted butter. Both add richness to the kabobs.
How Can I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly and Stay Juicy?
Grilling kabobs might seem tricky, but it’s all about the right preparation. Start by marinating your chicken with the ranch seasoning and olive oil—this adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes; longer if you can.
- Wrap each chicken piece with bacon securely but avoid wrapping it too tightly, so heat can circulate properly.
- Make sure to preheat the grill well. This helps in getting a nice sear on the chicken and bacon, locking in moisture.
- Turn the kabobs occasionally on the grill to cook them evenly without burning.
- After grilling, allow the kabobs to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping every bite tender and tasty.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of marinade time, around 10 minutes to prep, and 15 minutes to grill. Overall, you’ll need about 55 minutes before you can dig into these delicious kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, take your bite-sized chicken pieces and drizzle them with olive oil. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken pieces along with some salt and pepper. Mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will give you even more flavor!
2. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, get your grill ready! Preheat it to medium-high heat, so it’s nice and hot when the kabobs are ready to cook.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to put your kabobs together! Take a piece of marinated chicken and wrap a half slice of bacon around it. Secure the bacon by sliding the skewer through the center of the chicken. Repeat this for the rest of the chicken and bacon until you have all your ingredients skewered up.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the kabobs on it. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and the bacon gets crispy. You’ll know they’re ready when the chicken is fully cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle in. Serve your delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs over a bed of fresh lettuce or with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even pork. Just ensure that whatever meat you choose has even pieces for consistent cooking. Adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for pork, which may require a bit longer to reach a safe internal temperature.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No worries! You can make a homemade ranch seasoning by mixing together equal parts dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley, with a little salt and pepper. You can also use Italian seasoning as a substitute for a different flavor profile!
Can I Prep the Kabobs in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the kabobs up to a day in advance. Simply assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. This allows the flavors to meld even more, giving you an even tastier dish!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use an oven or air fryer to keep them crispy, or microwave them briefly if you’re in a hurry. Always ensure they are heated through to the center before serving!
