Grilled BBQ Chicken Kabobs

 

Ingredients:

For the spice rub:

• 2 teaspoons brown sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried minced onion flakes (or onion powder)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the chicken kabobs:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces
• Drizzle of olive oil
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces
• Fresh pineapple, cut into 1/2-inch to 1-inch pieces
• 8-12 slices center-cut bacon, cut into 3 shorter pieces
• 1/2 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
• Minced fresh parsley, for garnish
• Pinch of black pepper, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Make the spice rub:

   Combine all of the spice rub ingredients in a small bowl and mix well.

2. Prepare the chicken and vegetables:

   In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bacon, and olive oil. Add 2/3 of the spice rub and toss to coat. In a separate bowl, combine the bell pepper, onion, and pineapple. Add the remaining 1/3 of the spice rub and toss to coat.

3. Assemble the kabobs:

   Wrap a piece of bacon around each piece of chicken. Thread the chicken, bell pepper, onion, and pineapple onto skewers, alternating as desired.

4. Grill or broil the kabobs:

   To grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for 8-11 minutes, turning every few minutes, or until cooked through and lightly charred on all sides. Baste with BBQ sauce on both sides and cook for an additional minute per side, or until caramelized.

   To broil: Preheat your broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil. Place the kabobs on the baking sheet and broil for 10-15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes, or until cooked through. Baste with BBQ sauce on both sides and broil for an additional 1-2 minutes per side, or until caramelized.

5. Serve and enjoy!

   Sprinkle the kabobs with fresh parsley and black pepper, if desired. Serve with extra BBQ sauce.