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Grilling bourbon-glazed chicken skewers with basting brush applying glaze

Tender Bourbon-Glazed Chicken Skewers

Juicy grilled chicken skewers glazed with a sweet and savory bourbon sauce—perfect for backyard BBQs or weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Calories: 310

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Boneless skinless chicken thighs Cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1/3 cup Soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup Bourbon
  • 1/2 cup Brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup Ketchup
  • 2 tbsp Apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp Ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes Optional
  • 1 tbsp Cornstarch Mixed with water to make a slurry
  • 2 tbsp Water For slurry
  • Skewers Soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden
  • Green onions For garnish
  • Sesame seeds For garnish

Equipment

  • saucepan
  • grill
  • mixing bowl
  • Skewers

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine soy sauce, bourbon, brown sugar, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, ground ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Mix cornstarch with water to form a slurry. Stir into the sauce and cook for 2–3 minutes, until thickened. Remove from heat and let cool.
  3. Place chicken in a large bowl or ziplock bag. Pour in half the cooled sauce and marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
  4. Preheat grill to medium heat (about 400°F).
  5. Thread marinated chicken onto soaked skewers.
  6. Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally. Baste with reserved sauce until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

For best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and don't skip the basting while grilling for an extra sticky glaze.