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Firecracker Jalapeño Honey Chicken Skewers Recipe with Easy Blueberry Sauce

firecracker jalapeño honey chicken skewers - featured image

A quick and easy recipe featuring juicy chicken thighs marinated in a spicy-sweet jalapeño honey blend, grilled to perfection and served with a tangy homemade blueberry sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 fresh jalapeños, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
  • Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped jalapeños, honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, lime juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk to blend all the flavors.
  2. Add the cubed chicken thighs to the marinade and toss well, making sure each piece is coated. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  3. While the chicken marinates, place blueberries, honey, lemon juice, cinnamon (if using), and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently as the berries burst and the mixture thickens, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend briefly for a smooth sauce if desired.
  4. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400°F). Oil the grill grates or pan lightly to prevent sticking.
  5. Thread the marinated chicken cubes evenly onto soaked wooden or metal skewers, leaving a little space between pieces.
  6. Grill the skewers for about 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice char but remains juicy.
  7. Remove skewers from heat and let rest for 2 minutes. Spoon blueberry sauce generously over the skewers or serve on the side for dipping. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley if desired.

Notes

Remove jalapeño seeds to reduce heat. Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes but no more than 4 hours to avoid ‘cooking’ the meat with lime juice. Soak wooden skewers before grilling to prevent burning. Let skewers rest after grilling to lock in juices. Blueberry sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken skewers, jalapeño chicken, honey chicken, blueberry sauce, grilled chicken, spicy chicken, summer BBQ, easy dinner