Bacon-Wrapped Maple Balsamic Chicken and Veggie Skewers
These bacon-wrapped chicken skewers combine tender marinated chicken with colorful vegetables, all wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed with a sweet maple balsamic marinade. The chicken is cut into cubes and marinated with red onions in a mixture of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, and fresh thyme. Cherry tomatoes and yellow peppers add freshness and vibrant color. Perfect for summer barbecues, outdoor gatherings, or weeknight dinners when you want something special. The bacon keeps the chicken moist while adding smoky flavor, and the maple balsamic combination creates a delicious sweet and tangy glaze.
Ingredients
- 4 skinless chicken breasts, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 2 small red onions, cut into quarters
- 8 slices bacon
- 12 cherry tomatoes
- 2 yellow peppers, cut into quarterszucchini1:1vegetable
different texture
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- 1
Mix marinade ingredients in a small bowl
- 2
Stir chicken with red onions into marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight
- 3
Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes and oil the grill
- 4
Preheat barbecue to medium-high heat
- 5
Drain chicken and red onions and discard marinade
- 6
Thread skewers using two bacon slices and three to four chicken cubes per skewer, wrapping bacon around chicken and weaving over vegetables, alternating chicken and veggies with small gaps between ingredients
- 7
Place skewers on grill and close lid
- 8
Cook for five minutes, then turn over and cook another five minutes or until chicken is no longer pink inside
- 9
Serve immediately
Tips
Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor penetration and more tender results.
Keep bacon slightly undercooked when wrapping since it will finish cooking on the grill.
Cut vegetables similar in size to chicken cubes for even cooking throughout the skewer.
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked skewers for up to 3 days in airtight container.
Marinate chicken and prep vegetables up to 24 hours ahead. Assemble skewers morning of cooking.
Serve immediately off the grill with rice, quinoa, or grilled bread.
Common Mistakes
Soak wooden skewers to avoid burning on the grill.
Don't overcrowd ingredients to ensure even cooking.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Yes, metal skewers work great and don't need soaking. Just be careful as they get very hot during grilling.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can cook these in the oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or use a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
How long will leftover skewers keep?
Cooked skewers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.