Grilled Garlic Chicken Skewers

Juicy, flavorful, and perfectly charred these grilled chicken skewers are marinated in a garlic ranch blend and paired with colorful veggies for a satisfying and simple grilled dish.

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Ingredients

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
• 1 medium onion, cut into 1-inch pieces (optional)
• 1 zucchini, sliced into 1-inch rounds (optional)
• 8 bamboo skewers, soaked in water

For the Marinade:

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 4 tablespoons ranch dressing
• 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• Dash of Johnny’s Seasoning Salt or paprika (optional)

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Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together mayonnaise, ranch, chopped garlic, and seasoning (if using).
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Prep the Skewers: While the chicken marinates, soak the bamboo skewers in water to prevent burning during grilling.
4. Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to medium heat (about 375°F/190°C).
5. Assemble the Skewers: Thread chicken and vegetables (if using) onto the skewers, alternating pieces for even cooking and visual appeal.
6. Grill: Cook skewers over medium heat for approximately 15 minutes, turning every few minutes to ensure all sides are evenly cooked. The chicken should be fully cooked and lightly charred (internal temp should reach 165°F/74°C).
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or side dishes.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and quick with minimal prep and cook time.
• Bold garlic ranch flavor with juicy, tender chicken.
• Perfect for grilling season or weeknight dinners.
• Flexible ingredients—add any veggies you like.

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Tips

• Soak skewers for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
• Cut all pieces into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Don’t over-marinate—1 to 4 hours is ideal for maximum flavor without softening the meat too much.
• Oil the grill grates before placing skewers to prevent sticking.

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Variations and Substitutions

• No grill? Cook on a grill pan or bake in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway.
• Different protein: Use shrimp, turkey, or tofu for variety.
• Add herbs: Mix fresh chopped parsley, thyme, or cilantro into the marinade.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a kick.
• Low-carb option: Skip the veggies or use low-carb alternatives like mushrooms or cauliflower.

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FAQs

Can I prep these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the chicken and chop veggies up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble just before grilling.

Can I use metal skewers?
Absolutely. Metal skewers are reusable and don’t need to be soaked.

Is the mayonnaise necessary?
Yes, it helps lock in moisture and adds creaminess, but you can reduce it or substitute with Greek yogurt if preferred.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Pair with grilled corn, rice pilaf, or roasted potatoes.
• Serve with tzatziki, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli for dipping.
• Add a side salad or wrap in flatbread with hummus for a complete meal.
• Great for picnics, meal prep, or summer cookouts.