These chicken bacon ranch kabobs are a fun and tasty way to enjoy dinner! Juicy chicken pieces are combined with crispy bacon and colorful veggies, all bursting with flavor.
These kabobs are perfect for grilling or baking, making them super easy to whip up. I love serving them with a dip—who doesn’t like dipping food into something yummy? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish is the chicken. I prefer using boneless, skinless breast for its lean quality. You can substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier bite, or even shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous.
Bacon: Regular bacon adds great flavor and texture. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you want fewer calories. The taste changes slightly, but it still works well!
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing gives a creamy flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier swap, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can be a great alternative. You can also DIY your dressing using a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, and seasonings!
Spices: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even a little chili powder can work, but adjust the amount for spiciness. Garlic and onion powders are also key here!
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is essential for juicy, flavorful kabobs. Start by placing your chicken in a bowl and adding your ranch dressing along with the spices. Here’s how you do it:
- Make sure the chicken is well-coated by mixing it thoroughly.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator. The longer, the better! Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal.
- This helps the flavors to seep into the meat, making each bite delicious.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 slices of bacon, cut in half
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 30 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time in the refrigerator. Then you will need around 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’re looking at roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes, including marinating and cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the chicken breast cubes, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything well until the chicken is nicely coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for best flavor, aim for 1-2 hours!
2. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, get your grill ready! Heat it to a medium-high temperature. This will ensure your kabobs cook evenly and the bacon gets nice and crispy.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken is done marinating, it’s time to assemble the kabobs! Take each chicken cube and wrap it with half a slice of bacon. Then, take a skewer and thread the wrapped chicken onto it. Repeat until all the chicken is skewered—this should make a delicious and fun-to-eat dish!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes, making sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. You’ll know they are done when the chicken is cooked through and the bacon is nicely crispy.
5. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help keep the chicken juicy and flavorful.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to dig in! Serve your kabobs with some extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Kabobs!
Can I Use Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Turkey breast works great as a substitution. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time, as turkey may take a little longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use blue cheese dressing or a homemade herb vinaigrette. Just keep the same quantity for the best flavor and marinating effect!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or on the grill to maintain the bacon’s crispiness.
Can I Prepare the Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the kabobs a few hours in advance and refrigerate them until you’re ready to grill. Just be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow those flavors to develop!
