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Maple Chipotle BBQ Chicken Skewers - Sweet, Smoky, and Perfect for Grilling

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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless; chicken breast works too)
  • Maple syrup (pure, not pancake syrup)
  • BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • Chipotle peppers in adobo (plus a spoonful of the adobo sauce)
  • Lime (zest and juice)
  • Garlic (fresh cloves)
  • Smoked paprika
  • Ground cumin
  • Olive oil
  • Kosher salt and black pepper
  • Red onion and/or bell peppers (optional, for threading)
  • Fresh cilantro or green onion (optional garnish)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers)

Method
 

  1. Soak the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/2 cup BBQ sauce, 1–2 minced chipotle peppers plus 1 teaspoon adobo sauce, zest and juice of 1 lime, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper.
  3. Prep the chicken: Cut chicken thighs into 1.25–1.5-inch chunks. Pat dry for better browning.
  4. Marinate: Toss chicken in the marinade. Reserve 1/4 cup marinade separately for basting. Cover and chill 30 minutes (up to 8 hours for deeper flavor).
  5. Preheat the grill: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Oil the grates to reduce sticking.
  6. Assemble skewers: Thread chicken onto skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion or bell pepper if using. Don’t pack too tightly.
  7. Grill: Cook 8–12 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes. Brush with reserved marinade during the last few minutes to glaze.
  8. Check doneness: Look for light char and an internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Remove and rest 3–5 minutes.
  9. Finish and serve: Garnish with chopped cilantro or green onion. Squeeze extra lime over the top. Serve with rice, grilled corn, slaw, or warm tortillas.