Buffalo Ranch Chicken Skewers

Hey there! I’m so excited to share one of my absolute favorite recipes with you: Buffalo Ranch Chicken Skewers. These are not only incredibly delicious but also super easy to make. Whether you’re grilling, using an air fryer, or even your oven, these skewers are guaranteed to be a hit. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love These Skewers

• Flavor explosion: The combination of spicy buffalo sauce and creamy ranch seasoning is simply irresistible23.
• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts21.
• Versatile: Great as an appetizer or a main course2.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your spice preference and cooking method21.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 11-15 minutes
• Total Time: Under an hour
• Servings: 4-5

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Skewers

• 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes2
• ½ cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)2
• 1 tablespoon dry ranch seasoning mix2
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil2
• ½ teaspoon onion powder2
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder2
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt2
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper2
• 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes2

For the Optional Avocado Ranch Dressing (Recipe from reciperunner.com)1

• ½ of a large avocado, peeled and cut into chunks1
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt1
• 2 tablespoons mayo1
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice1
• ¼ cup cilantro, roughly chopped1
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill1
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder1
• ½ teaspoon onion powder1
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste1

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce, ranch seasoning mix, oil, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined2. Pour half of this sauce into a separate bowl and set aside for later2.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the large bowl with the remaining sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly, ensuring each piece is well-covered2.
3. Thread the Skewers: Take your soaked wooden skewers and thread 4-5 chicken cubes onto each, leaving a little space between each piece2.
4. Cook the Skewers:
   • Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Cook the skewers in batches for 11-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)2.
   • Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through3.
   • Oven: Preheat your oven to 450 degrees. Place chicken skewers on a rimmed baking sheet lined with foil and cook for 14 minutes, flipping half way through and basting with butter a few times throughout the baking process3. Switch the oven to broil and cook an additional 2 minutes so get the tops golden brown3.
5. Finishing Touches: Once the skewers are cooked, remove them from the heat and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle or brush them with the reserved buffalo ranch sauce2. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color23.
6. Make the dressing: (Optional) Add all of the avocado ranch dressing ingredients to the blender and blend until smooth1. Scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well combined. If the dressing is too thick add in a couple tablespoons of water or milk. Taste for seasoning and adjust as needed with more salt or lemon juice1.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer with a side of blue cheese or ranch dressing1.
• Make it a meal by pairing with a fresh salad or coleslaw6.
• Serve over rice or quinoa for a complete and satisfying dish.
• Try them in tacos or wraps for a fun twist.

Tips for Customization

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat. Use mild, medium, or hot sauce depending on your preference1. For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper3.
• Chicken Type: Feel free to use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result23.
• Cooking Method: These skewers can be easily adapted for the grill, air fryer, or oven, so use whichever method you prefer23.
• Add Bacon: Wrap each chicken piece with bacon before threading onto the skewers for a smoky flavor4.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I prepare these in advance?
  • Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 3 hours in the refrigerator1. Assemble the skewers just before cooking for the best results1.
• Do I have to soak the wooden skewers?
  • Soaking the skewers prevents them from burning during cooking, especially on the grill23.
• Can I use frozen chicken?
  • Make sure to fully thaw the chicken before marinating to ensure even cooking and proper flavor absorption2.
• What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
  • You can make your own ranch seasoning by combining dried parsley, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper3.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 35-40g
• Carbohydrates: 10-15g
• Fat: 15-20g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.