Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1½ lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 inch pieces (or chicken tenderloins)
- 1½ tsp olive oil
- 1½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
For the Hot Honey Sauce:
- ½ cup honey
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice
- 1 large garlic clove, finely grated or minced
- ½ tsp ground cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Make the Hot Honey Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the honey, lemon juice, finely grated garlic, and ground cayenne pepper until well combined. Set this flavorful sauce aside for later use.
- Prep the Skewers: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Add the chicken pieces and olive oil to a larger bowl, then sprinkle the spice mixture over the chicken. Mix thoroughly until every piece of chicken is evenly coated with the oil and spices.
- Thread the Chicken: Carefully thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto metal or wooden skewers, making sure they are evenly spaced to allow for thorough grilling.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, turning carefully to cook evenly, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and is cooked through.
- Brush with Hot Honey Sauce: During the last 1-2 minutes of grilling, generously brush the skewers with the prepared hot honey sauce. Be sure to reserve some sauce for serving alongside.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with freshly chopped basil. Serve the skewers warm with the remaining hot honey sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the hot honey sauce to suit your preferred spice level.
- Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness, but chicken tenderloins can be used as a leaner alternative.
- Ensure the grill is properly preheated to prevent sticking and achieve nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
