Sweet and Smoky Chicken Skewers: A Family-Friendly Recipe

Sweet and Smoky Chicken Skewers: A Family-Friendly Recipe

29 April 2025

Sweet and Smoky Chicken Skewers: A Family-Friendly Recipe

Are you looking for a new way to spice up your chicken routine? These honey chipotle chicken skewers are a total game-changer! They're easy to make, bursting with flavor, and a hit with the whole family. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, as it can be cooked in the air fryer, grill, or oven.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Family Approved: These skewers have been tested and loved by both kids and adults. The sweet and smoky flavor is a total win.
  • Easy to Make: With a simple marinade, they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Versatile: They can be cooked in various ways, using an air fryer, grill, or oven, to suit your preferences.
  • Flavorful: The blend of honey, chipotle, and taco seasoning creates an irresistible taste experience.

Ingredients You'll Need

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • Wooden skewers (optional)

For the Honey Chipotle Mix:

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 minced chipotle pepper in adobo
  • 1 clove garlic, grated
  • 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
  • 1 orange, zest (1-2 teaspoons) and juice (1 tablespoon)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil

How To Make Honey Chipotle Chicken Skewers

  1. Soak the Skewers: If you are using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-30 minutes while you prepare the chicken. This prevents them from burning.

  2. Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Smaller pieces cook faster and are easier to thread onto the skewers.

  3. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the honey, minced chipotle pepper, grated garlic, taco seasoning, orange zest and juice, salt, and avocado oil. Mix well.

  4. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Mix to ensure all pieces are well coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes while you prep other side dishes or even go straight to cooking.

  5. Thread the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers. Try to keep them evenly spaced for even cooking. If air frying and your skewer is too long break the ends off so they will fit into the air fryer.

  6. Cook the Skewers:

    • Air Fryer: Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
    • Grill: Grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
    • Oven: Broil near the top of the oven for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally for even browning.
  7. Finish: Once cooked, you can add a drizzle of honey or brush with melted butter mixed with honey to enhance the flavour.

Serving Suggestions

  • Power Combo: Serve with corn dip, pickled onions, and green rice for a complete meal.
  • Salads: Add the chicken skewers to a southwestern-style salad.
  • Tacos: Tuck the chicken into tortillas with your favorite toppings.
  • Sides: Serve with black beans, avocado corn salsa, or creamy polenta.

Tips for Success

  • If you like more spice add more chipotle peppers, if you want less add less.
  • Don't skip soaking the skewers as this prevents them from burning.
  • For best results, let the chicken marinate for at least 10 minutes.
  • Adjust cooking time to your liking, and always make sure chicken is fully cooked through.

Enjoy these delicious chicken skewers as a fun, flavorful, and easy addition to your healthy cooking repertoire. They are sure to become a staple in your meal planning rotation!