Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers

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I didn’t expect these Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers to become a weekly staple, but after the first bite, I was completely hooked. There’s something magical about the tangy sharpness of dill pickles merging with the savory juiciness of grilled chicken. The first time I made them, I was aiming for something new for our BBQ night, and they ended up stealing the show.

The pickles work double duty here. They don’t just sit on the side like a garnish; they infuse the chicken with a briny, garlicky tang that’s irresistible. I marinated the chicken overnight in pickle juice, and the result was an ultra-tender, flavor-packed bite that had everyone asking for seconds. Pair that with a creamy dipping sauce and you’ve got a summer classic in the making.

If you love experimenting with bold flavors and simple methods, these skewers will be right up your alley. They cook quickly, they present beautifully, and they’re just plain fun to eat. And if you’re already a fan of dishes like creamy garlic chicken breasts or bourbon peach BBQ chicken, this one fits perfectly into your flavorful chicken collection.

Why You’ll Love This Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers Recipe

This recipe is for anyone who loves a good grilled chicken dish with a twist. The marinade does all the heavy lifting, tenderizing the meat and layering in flavor without much effort. It’s perfect for outdoor gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. The skewers are versatile, fun to assemble, and sure to spark conversation at the dinner table.

Ingredients

Chicken thighs: Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for soaking up the dill pickle marinade. Chicken thighs stay tender on the grill and carry bold flavors beautifully.

Pickle juice: This is the real star of the marinade. It delivers tang, saltiness, and depth to the chicken, helping tenderize the meat as it marinates.

Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a punch of aroma and savory flavor that enhances the pickle brine.

Dill pickles: Sliced and added to the skewers, these bring crunch and a burst of briny goodness with every bite.

Olive oil: Helps the marinade stick to the chicken and adds richness to the grill finish.

Salt and pepper: Just enough to bring out the flavors without overpowering the pickle notes.

Skewers: Wooden or metal, for threading the chicken and pickles for easy grilling.

How to Make Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized chunks and place them in a bowl. Add pickle juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces and sliced dill pickles alternately onto the skewers. Be generous with the pickles—they caramelize nicely on the grill and add a juicy texture.

Step 3: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot off the grill with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of creamy potato salad. These skewers are best enjoyed warm when the flavors are at their peak.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can easily swap out the chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer leaner meat. While thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, breasts work well if marinated thoroughly. For a spicier version, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.

Not a fan of dill pickles? Try bread and butter pickles for a sweeter profile, or go bold with spicy pickles. If you don’t have a grill, you can broil the skewers in the oven until golden and cooked through.

Vegetarian guests coming over? Marinate tofu in the same pickle mixture and thread it with mushrooms and bell peppers for a fun variation.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These skewers pair wonderfully with creamy potato salad, grilled corn, or a fresh cucumber-tomato salad. I love serving them with a side of ranch or a tangy mustard dip. They also go great with soft pita bread and a dollop of tzatziki for a handheld treat.

As for drinks, a chilled glass of white wine, a crisp lager, or even a dill pickle martini can really elevate the experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to dry the chicken out.

You can also freeze the marinated (uncooked) chicken for up to a month. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and grill as directed.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers?

Yes, chicken breasts can be used, though they are leaner and can dry out faster. Make sure to marinate them well and watch the cooking time closely.

Do I have to use dill pickles in this Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers recipe?

Dill pickles provide the signature flavor, but if you’re not a fan, bread and butter or spicy pickles can offer interesting variations.

Can I make Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and assemble the skewers just before grilling. They reheat well too if stored properly.

What if I don’t have a grill for making Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers?

You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil them in the oven. Just keep an eye on them and turn occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you love these Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers, you’ll definitely want to try the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a comforting, rich meal or the Bourbon Peach BBQ Chicken for a fruity, smoky flavor explosion. Both pair beautifully with summer sides and offer that same bold, craveable taste.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If these Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers have you excited to fire up the grill, don’t forget to pin this recipe for later on your Pinterest board! It’s a surefire way to keep it handy for your next BBQ night. Share it with friends who love trying new flavor combos or surprise your pickle-loving crew with this unexpected twist. Trust me, once they try it, they’ll be asking for the recipe too!

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