The first time I made these skewers, it wasn’t just dinner—it was a full-blown backyard event.
The grill was sizzling, my kids were running around, and that sweet, smoky aroma had my neighbor leaning over the fence, casually asking, “What’s cookin’?” One bite, and he was hooked.
These Sweet & Spicy Chicken Skewers are the perfect mix of heat, sweetness, and smoky char. They’re gluten-free, packed with flavor, and ridiculously simple to make.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer cookout or just need a quick, wholesome dinner, these skewers will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Variations & Substitutions
- Vegetarian? Swap the chicken for extra-firm tofu or portobello mushrooms.
- No honey? Use maple syrup for a deeper sweetness.
- No grill? A cast-iron pan or oven broiler works just as well!
- Want more crunch? Sprinkle crushed peanuts or cashews over the skewers before serving.
Serving & Presentation Tips
- For a stunning platter: Lay skewers over a bed of cilantro-lime rice with a drizzle of extra honey-sriracha sauce.
- For a wrap: Slide the grilled chicken and veggies into warm gluten-free tortillas with avocado and slaw.
- For a bowl: Serve over quinoa or brown rice, topped with pickled onions and a dollop of Greek yogurt.
This dish is a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re cooking for family, meal-prepping for the week, or hosting a BBQ. Enjoy, and don’t forget to tag me when you try it! 🍢🔥
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Sweet & Spicy Chicken Skewers
Tender, juicy chicken skewers with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, paired with fresh veggies for a gluten-free meal that’s perfect for grilling or roasting.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp honey (local raw honey if possible)
- 1 tbsp sriracha (adjust for heat preference)
- 2 tbsp gluten-free soy sauce (or coconut aminos)
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For the Skewers
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
For Garnish
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Toasted sesame seeds (optional)
Instructions
Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, whisk together honey, sriracha, gluten-free soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss in the chicken pieces, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor).
2. Prep the Veggies
While the chicken marinates, chop the bell peppers, onion, and zucchini. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating colors and textures. (Tip: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.)
4. Cook the Skewers
- Grill method: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is charred and cooked through.
- Oven method: Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, place skewers on top, and roast for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
5. Serve & Enjoy
Transfer skewers to a serving plate, sprinkle with fresh cilantro and toasted sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges on the side. Enjoy with rice, quinoa, or a crisp salad.
Notes
- djust spice levels by adding more or less sriracha.
- For extra caramelization, brush the skewers with honey in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Can be prepped ahead and frozen (just marinate, skewer, and freeze).
- Prep Time: 40 minutes (includes marinating)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling or Roasting
- Cuisine: American with a global twist
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
