This Grilled Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken recipe is the perfect combination of tender chicken, smoky spices, and a sweet and savory marinade. Skewered with colorful red bell peppers, these juicy chicken cubes are grilled to perfection, making it a fantastic choice for a quick, flavorful dinner. It’s easy to prepare and ideal for any occasion, whether you’re grilling in the backyard or looking for a weeknight dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1-2 red bell peppers, diced

• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)

For the Marinade:

• 1/4 cup brown sugar

• 1 cup BBQ sauce

• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika

• 3 garlic cloves, chopped finely

• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

• 2 teaspoons dried oregano

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade:
   In a small bowl, combine BBQ sauce, brown sugar, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), garlic, and smoked paprika. Stir until well mixed.

2. Marinate the Chicken:
   Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes and season with salt and pepper. Marinate the chicken in half of the BBQ marinade for at least 20 minutes, or up to overnight for more flavor.

3. Prepare the Skewers:
   After marinating, drain the chicken from the marinade. Skewer the chicken cubes and red bell pepper pieces onto skewers.

4. Grill the Chicken:
   Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 2-3 minutes per side, drizzling some of the leftover marinade over the chicken while grilling. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly charred.

5. Garnish and Serve:
   Remove the skewers from the grill and garnish with chopped cilantro. Serve immediately with a side of salad, rice, or noodles for a complete meal.

Estimated Nutritional Value (per serving)

• Calories: ~300-350 kcal

• Total Fat: ~15-20g

  • Saturated Fat: ~3-4g

• Cholesterol: ~70mg

• Sodium: ~500-700mg

• Carbohydrates: ~15-20g

  • Fiber: ~2g

  • Sugar: ~12-15g (mainly from the BBQ sauce and brown sugar)

• Protein: ~30-35g

• Vitamin A: ~10% DV (from the red bell peppers)

• Vitamin C: ~40% DV (from the red bell peppers)

• Calcium: ~2-4% DV

• Iron: ~4-6% DV

These values are rough estimates and could vary depending on portion sizes, BBQ sauce brands, and any added ingredients. If you want more precise values, you can use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands of ingredients you are using.

A Flavorful Marinade for Maximum Taste

The key to making this chicken so irresistibly tasty is the marinade. A combination of BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic, cayenne pepper, and oregano gives the chicken a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory notes. The brown sugar helps create that beautiful caramelized glaze when grilled, while the garlic and paprika provide deep flavor. For those who like a little extra heat, the optional cayenne pepper adds a subtle kick, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.

The marinade also serves to tenderize the chicken, infusing it with rich flavors while keeping it juicy throughout the grilling process. You can marinate the chicken for as little as 20 minutes, or for even more flavor, let it sit overnight. Either way, the results will be a flavorful, well-seasoned chicken that’s ready to be grilled to perfection.

Simple Yet Stunning Presentation

Not only does this dish deliver on flavor, but it’s also visually striking, making it perfect for dinner parties or casual gatherings. The chicken is cubed and threaded onto skewers, alternating with colorful red bell peppers. The peppers add a pop of color and a bit of crunch, which contrasts nicely with the tender chicken. Once grilled, the skewers become beautifully charred, with the caramelized sugar creating an inviting sheen that’s hard to resist.

The vibrant peppers not only make the dish look beautiful but also offer a nutritional boost. Rich in vitamins A and C, red bell peppers contribute to the overall health benefits of this dish, making it not just delicious but also packed with essential nutrients.

Quick and Easy Grilling

One of the best aspects of Grilled Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is how quick and easy it is to prepare. After marinating the chicken, you simply skewer the chicken and bell pepper pieces, preheat your grill, and start grilling. The chicken cooks up quickly, requiring just 2-3 minutes per side on medium-high heat. The result is perfectly grilled chicken that’s lightly charred on the outside while remaining juicy and tender inside.

During grilling, the remaining marinade can be brushed over the chicken to enhance the flavor and help create that signature caramelized glaze. The high heat of the grill helps the marinade to sear onto the chicken, locking in moisture and creating those beautiful grill marks that everyone loves.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This recipe is ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard, preparing dinner for the family, or hosting a barbecue, these skewers are a great choice. They’re easy to serve, making them perfect for a casual, fun meal. Plus, you can serve them with a variety of sides like fresh salads, rice, or noodles to create a well-rounded meal.

The skewers can also be made ahead of time, allowing you to marinate the chicken in advance and assemble the skewers when you’re ready to grill. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep or quick dinners during busy weeks.

A Versatile Dish for All Diets

Not only is this recipe a hit at any gathering, but it’s also quite versatile. It can easily be customized based on dietary preferences. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, simply serve the skewers with a side of grilled vegetables or a leafy green salad. If you’re craving something heartier, pair them with rice, roasted potatoes, or pasta for a more filling meal.

For those who follow gluten-free or dairy-free diets, this recipe is easily adaptable. Most BBQ sauces are gluten-free, and you can choose a dairy-free option for the marinade if needed. The recipe can be tailored to fit various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Nutritional Benefits in Every Bite

In addition to being delicious, Grilled Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken offers a number of nutritional benefits. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, making this dish a healthy option for muscle building and maintenance. Red bell peppers are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which are important for immune health and fighting inflammation. The combination of lean protein and vegetables makes this recipe a nutritious and balanced meal.

Though the marinade includes brown sugar, which adds a touch of sweetness, it’s still relatively low in calories, making this a good option for those watching their calorie intake. Each skewer is packed with protein, which makes it satisfying without being overly heavy.

Conclusion: A Sweet and Savory Delight

In conclusion, Grilled Brown Sugar Garlic Chicken is the perfect balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re grilling in the backyard or preparing a quick dinner on a weeknight, this dish is both easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky spices, and the subtle sweetness of brown sugar creates a mouthwatering experience that’s sure to impress. Paired with colorful bell peppers and a simple garnish of cilantro, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these grilled chicken skewers are guaranteed to be a hit.