These Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken is wrapped in crispy bacon, all drizzled with ranch dressing. It’s a hit at cookouts!
Who doesn’t love bacon on everything, right? I say the more bacon, the better! These kabobs are super easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or party snack. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Using boneless, skinless chicken breast keeps it lean and tender. If you want more flavor, go for thigh meat instead. It has a richer taste and stays moist while cooking.
Bacon: Regular bacon adds a nice salty crunch. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, but it may not crisp up as much. You can also use prosciutto for a unique twist!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is key for flavor. If you’re out, you can mix equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a little salt to create a homemade version. I sometimes add a pinch of paprika for extra zing.
Olive Oil: It helps with moisture and flavor. You could substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if that’s what you have on hand. Just be cautious with how much you use to avoid greasy kabobs!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Kabobs on the Grill?
Cooking kabobs might seem tricky, but it’s all about getting even heat and the right timing. Here’s how to ensure they turn out great:
- Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill is hot, around medium-high heat. This helps get that perfect char on the bacon while cooking the chicken through.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Space your kabobs apart on the grill. This allows hot air to circulate, ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- Turn Gently: Use tongs to carefully turn them every few minutes. This helps avoid any bacon peeling off or chicken sticking to the grill.
- Check for Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for safety. You can do this with a meat thermometer or cut into a piece to check it’s no longer pink.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the kabobs sit for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them juicy and flavorful.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 8 strips bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh lettuce leaves for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’ll need about 25 minutes to make these delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to ensure your kabobs cook evenly and get that nice char you want!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, take the cubed chicken breast and add the ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until the chicken is well-coated. This is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to create your kabobs! Take a piece of bacon and wrap it around each chicken cube tightly. Slide the wrapped chicken onto your skewer. If you want, you can alternate between chicken and bacon on the skewer for an extra fun presentation!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so that all sides get cooked perfectly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is fully cooked and the bacon is nice and crispy!
5. Let them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, making them even more delicious!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs warm on a platter with fresh lettuce leaves. The lettuce adds a nice crunch and makes your dish look great. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Thigh Meat Instead of Chicken Breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are slightly juicier and more flavorful than breast meat, making them a great option for this recipe. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning Mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create your own mix using a combination of dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. A tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can also be mixed in for a similar creamy flavor!
How to Soak Wooden Skewers?
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s best to soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill. You can do this while you prepare your chicken and bacon to save time!
How to Best Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or warm them up on the grill for a few minutes until heated through. Enjoy them cold in a salad for a quick lunch, too!
