Buffalo Ranch Chicken Skewers

 

If you’re looking for a dish that brings bold flavors to the table, these Buffalo ranch chicken skewers are your new best friend. Combining the tangy heat of Buffalo sauce with the creamy, herby goodness of ranch, these skewers are a delicious fusion of two classic flavors. Juicy chunks of marinated chicken are threaded onto skewers, grilled to perfection, and basted in a mouthwatering Buffalo ranch glaze that’s sure to make your taste buds dance. These skewers are perfect for cookouts, game day parties, or an easy weeknight dinner. Serve them with your favorite dips and sides for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple yet unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Buffalo sauce and ranch dressing is a match made in flavor heaven.
• Perfect for Grilling: These skewers are easy to grill and have that delicious charred, smoky flavor.
• Great for Entertaining: Serve them as appetizers, mains, or snacks—perfect for parties or gatherings.
• Customizable: Adjust the heat level or add veggies to the skewers to suit your taste.
• Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, this recipe is great for busy cooks.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Marinate Time: 1 hour (optional but recommended)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Serving Size: 2 skewers

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugar: 2g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Marinade:

• 500g (about 1 pound) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Buffalo Ranch Glaze:

• 1/4 cup Buffalo sauce
• 2 tbsp ranch dressing
• 1 tbsp melted butter

Optional Skewer Add-Ons:

• Bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Red onions, cut into wedges
• Zucchini slices

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• Extra ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing for dipping

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into even, bite-sized cubes (about 1 inch). This ensures even cooking on the skewers.

2. Marinate the Chicken

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, Buffalo sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat each piece evenly.
3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 4 hours.

3. Preheat the Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

4. Assemble the Skewers

1. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto skewers. If adding vegetables, alternate between chicken, bell peppers, onions, or zucchini for colorful skewers.

5. Make the Buffalo Ranch Glaze

1. In a small bowl, mix Buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, and melted butter until smooth. Set aside for basting during grilling.

6. Grill the Skewers

1. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
2. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. In the last few minutes of cooking, brush the skewers with the Buffalo ranch glaze on all sides.

7. Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the skewers from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives and serve with extra ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping.

Ingredient Background

Chicken

Chicken breasts are lean and tender, while thighs are juicier and more forgiving on the grill. Both work perfectly for this recipe, so choose based on your preference.

Buffalo Sauce

Buffalo sauce is a tangy, spicy condiment made with hot sauce and butter. It originated in Buffalo, New York, and has become a beloved staple for wings and other dishes.

Ranch Dressing

Ranch dressing, with its creamy texture and herbaceous flavor, balances the heat of the Buffalo sauce and adds a cooling contrast.

Vegetables

Adding vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini enhances the dish’s texture, flavor, and nutritional profile, making it more colorful and hearty.

Technique Tips

• Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: While you can skip marination in a pinch, letting the chicken soak in the marinade enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: To prevent burning, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
• Don’t Overcook: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to perfection without drying out.
• Glaze at the End: Brush the glaze on during the final minutes of grilling to prevent burning.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Buffalo Ranch Chicken Bowl: Serve the grilled chicken (off the skewers) over a bed of rice, quinoa, or salad greens, drizzled with extra Buffalo ranch sauce.
• Mini Skewers for Appetizers: Use smaller skewers for bite-sized appetizers, perfect for parties or game day snacks.
• Buffalo Ranch Wraps: Remove the chicken from the skewers and use it as a filling for wraps with lettuce, tomato, and ranch dressing.
• Sheet Pan Version: Roast the marinated chicken and vegetables on a sheet pan in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, brushing with glaze halfway through.

Additional Tips for Success

• Use metal skewers for an easier grilling experience—no soaking required, and they conduct heat for faster cooking.
• If you’re short on time, use a pre-made Buffalo ranch sauce to simplify the recipe.
• For extra caramelization, turn the heat to high for the final minute of grilling.
• Keep some glaze on the side for dipping or drizzling over the finished skewers.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
• Honey Buffalo Skewers: Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the glaze for a sweet and spicy flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with firm tofu, halloumi, or a mix of mushrooms and vegetables.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve the skewers over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
• Herbed Twist: Add fresh dill or chives to the ranch dressing for an extra herby kick.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing

You can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Place the chicken and marinade in a zip-top bag, squeeze out excess air, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before threading onto skewers and grilling.

Storage

Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Replace ranch dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a lighter marinade.
• Use skinless chicken breasts for a leaner protein option.
• Serve the skewers with a side of fresh vegetables or a salad for a nutrient-packed meal.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Game Day: Pair with celery sticks, carrot sticks, and blue cheese dressing for a fun and casual vibe.
• Summer BBQ: Serve with grilled corn on the cob and a side of potato salad for a backyard feast.
• Family Dinner: Add a side of garlic bread or roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.
• Potluck Parties: Arrange the skewers on a platter with a drizzle of Buffalo ranch sauce for an eye-catching centerpiece.

Special Equipment

• Grill or grill pan
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Basting brush
• Mixing bowls for marinade and glaze

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Yes! Use a grill pan or bake the skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. What’s the best chicken cut for skewers?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are juicier, while chicken breasts are leaner. Both work well, so choose based on your preference.

3. How can I make the skewers less spicy?

Use mild Buffalo sauce or reduce the amount. You can also add extra ranch dressing to tone down the heat.

4. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the marinade up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

5. How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grill grates before cooking and ensure the grill is properly preheated.

6. Can I use store-bought Buffalo ranch sauce?

Yes, store-bought Buffalo ranch sauce can save time and still deliver great flavor.

7. What sides pair well with these skewers?

Pair with coleslaw, grilled vegetables, corn on the cob, or a crisp salad.

8. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, use a dairy-free ranch dressing alternative and skip the butter in the glaze.

Conclusion

Buffalo ranch chicken skewers are a flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion, from summer barbecues to game day parties. The combination of tangy Buffalo sauce and creamy ranch dressing creates an irresistible marinade and glaze that infuses every bite with bold, zesty flavors. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these skewers are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, main course, or party snack, you’ll love how simple it is to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen!

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