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Flavorful Firecracker Grilled Chicken Skewers Recipe with Spicy Honey Jalapeño Glaze

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These firecracker grilled chicken skewers feature a spicy honey jalapeño glaze that delivers a perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and fiery flavors. Quick and easy to prepare, they are ideal for summer cookouts and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds (680 g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large yellow onion, cut into wedges
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden ones in water 30 minutes before grilling)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ⅓ cup (113 g) honey
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, finely minced (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, toss the chicken cubes, bell pepper pieces, and onion wedges with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  2. Thread the chicken pieces alternately with bell pepper and onion onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine honey, minced jalapeños, garlic, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently and bring to a simmer. Let it bubble for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  4. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 205°C). If using charcoal, wait until coals are covered with white ash.
  5. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, brushing generously with the glaze after flipping. Total grilling time is about 12-15 minutes, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Brush any remaining glaze over the cooked skewers and let them rest for 5 minutes off the heat to lock in juices.
  7. Serve the skewers hot with your favorite sides such as grilled corn, crisp salad, or fresh avocado tuna salad lettuce wraps.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Simmer the glaze gently to avoid burning and ensure it thickens properly. Use chicken thighs for juicier meat; breasts can be used but require careful cooking to avoid drying out. Keep a spray bottle of water handy to control flare-ups caused by the honey glaze. For extra smoky flavor, add soaked wood chips to charcoal or use a smoker box on a gas grill. The glaze can be made up to 3 days ahead and refrigerated.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken skewers, spicy honey jalapeño glaze, firecracker chicken, summer cookout recipe, easy chicken skewers, smoky grilled chicken

Find it online: https://magnetmeal.com/flavorful-firecracker-grilled-chicken-skewers-recipe-with-spicy-honey-jalape-n-o-glaze/