These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty dish! Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and your favorite ranch flavor come together on a stick for easy eating.
Let’s be honest, who can resist bacon? These kabobs are perfect for a picnic or a cozy dinner at home. I love pairing them with a simple salad for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can also work well for extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast is a good substitute too!
Bacon: Bacon adds flavor and crispiness. You could use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative or even prosciutto for a gourmet touch. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Ranch Dressing: For a healthier twist, try using Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to create a homemade ranch dressing. Vegan ranch is another option if you’re avoiding dairy.
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Fresh minced garlic and finely chopped onions are solid replacements for these powders. Just use them sparingly, as fresh flavors can be more potent.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Kabobs?
Grilling kabobs can be tricky, but with the right approach, you’ll achieve delicious results. First, make sure the grill is hot enough before placing the kabobs. This helps create a good sear on the bacon and chicken.
- Marinate the chicken! It boosts the flavor. I suggest marinating for at least an hour if you can.
- Soak wooden skewers in water, if using, to prevent burning—they are prone to catching fire on the grill.
- Keep an eye on your kabobs! Turn them every few minutes for even cooking and to check on the bacon’s crispiness. They’ll be done when the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 strips of bacon, cut into halves (16 pieces total)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves for serving (optional)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. The cooking time on the grill is about 10-15 minutes. In total, you’re looking at around 50-55 minutes for a delicious kabob feast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Start by gathering a bowl and combining the chicken pieces with ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to make sure the chicken is evenly coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl and pop it in the refrigerator—let it marinate for at least 30 minutes for a good flavor boost, or up to 2 hours if you have the time.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This will help stop them from burning. While the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s ready to go when you’re done assembling the kabobs.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to build your kabobs! Take a piece of the marinated chicken and wrap it with a half-strip of bacon. Next, carefully thread the bacon-wrapped chicken onto the skewer. Keep going until you’ve used up all the chicken, adding any leftover bacon in between as needed. Make sure not to pack them too tightly so they grill evenly.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place all your assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. Keep an eye on them—they’re done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and the bacon is crispy.
5. Serve:
After grilling, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes off the grill. Then, serve them warm with extra ranch dressing on the side. You can also set them on a bed of fresh lettuce for a fun presentation. Enjoy your tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs!
Can I Use Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and will add extra juiciness to your kabobs. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces (1-inch) to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can easily make a homemade ranch dressing using mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and a splash of lemon juice. Mix it all together for a quick substitute!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, or microwave them until warmed.
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! If you prefer baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the assembled kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and bacon is crispy.
