Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs are a fun and tasty treat! Picture juicy chicken pieces, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing all skewered together for an easy meal or snack.
Who can resist the delicious combo of chicken and bacon? I love grilling these kabobs and serving them at parties—everyone goes crazy for them. Perfect for summer BBQs!
The best part is how easy they are to make. Just marinate, skewer, and grill! They look great on a plate and taste even better. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for tender bites. If you’re looking for something leaner, turkey breast can also work well!
Bacon: Regular bacon provides a rich flavor, but you can swap it for turkey bacon or even prosciutto for a different twist, especially if you want to cut down on fat.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: If you don’t have the packet, you can make your own! Mix together dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
Olive Oil: While olive oil adds flavor and moisture, you can use vegetable oil or melted butter as a substitute if you prefer.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly on the Grill?
Grilling kabobs can be a bit tricky, but with the right preparation, you can achieve perfect results. Here are a few simple steps to follow:
- Cut the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewer. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Turn the skewers regularly while grilling. This helps bacon crisp up evenly.
- Use a meat thermometer to check. Chicken should reach an internal temp of 165°F.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
- Lettuce leaves for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 10-15 minutes to grill. So, in total, you should plan for around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the ranch seasoning mix, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to toss everything together until the chicken is well-coated with the seasoning. This step really boosts the flavor!
2. Preheat the Grill:
While you’re prepping your kabobs, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This way, it will be nice and hot when you’re ready to cook the skewers.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to build your kabobs! Start with one piece of chicken and wrap it with half a slice of bacon. Then, skewer the wrapped chicken onto the skewer. Repeat this process until all the chicken pieces are used, making sure to alternate bacon and chicken on each skewer for delicious bites!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the skewers on the grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and the bacon to get nice and crispy. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
5. Let Them Rest:
Once your kabobs are done, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps lock in all those tasty juices, making every bite delicious.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Place the kabobs on a platter and, if you like, garnish with lettuce leaves for a fresh pop! Serve warm and enjoy your mouthwatering Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. The grilling time might be slightly less, so keep an eye on the kabobs to ensure the turkey bacon gets crispy but doesn’t burn.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No problem! You can create your own seasoning by mixing together 1 tsp dried dill, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, and 1 tsp parsley. This homemade blend will mimic the flavor of ranch seasoning well!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the bacon retains some crispness.
Can I Make These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the kabobs a few hours in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. However, for best results, try to grill them fresh for the best texture and flavors!
