These dill pickle ranch chicken skewers are a flavorful and easy weeknight dinner option. Marinated in a tangy pickle brine made with pickle juice, olive oil, and ranch seasoning, the chicken thighs become incredibly tender and juicy.
The addition of fresh dill and garlic enhances the flavor, making these skewers a must-try for pickle lovers.
Using boneless chicken thighs, this recipe features a quick sear on a grill pan or air fryer, delivering a flavor explosion in every bite. Serve them with extra pickles and a buttery garlic ranch sauce for dipping, and enjoy the delicious combination of dill pickle goodness and savory chicken.
Juicy Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers
These dill pickle chicken skewers are a delightful option for a weeknight dinner, showcasing the tangy goodness of pickle brine.
The marinade, made from pickle juice, olive oil, and ranch seasoning, acts as a natural tenderizer, ensuring that the boneless chicken thighs remain juicy and flavorful.
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a marinating time of 30 minutes, you can have these skewers ready to grill or air fry in no time.
Preparation of the Marinade
To create the marinade, combine a cup of pickle juice from an open jar of pickles with olive oil, brown sugar, kosher salt, minced garlic, and fresh dill in a small bowl.
This mixture not only enhances the flavor of the chicken but also infuses it with a tangy profile that pickle lovers will appreciate.
After mixing well, place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or bowl, ensuring they are well coated in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Grilling Techniques
When it comes time to cook, preheat your grill pan over medium-high heat or set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, placing three pieces per skewer.
This method allows for even cooking and a beautiful presentation. For grilling, place the skewers on the hot surface and cook for 7-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the thickest part of the chicken registers 165°F (74°C).
Serving Suggestions
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the heat and brush them with a mixture of melted unsalted butter and reduced-sodium chicken broth.
This adds a rich flavor that complements the tangy chicken perfectly. Serve the skewers with extra pickles and a small bowl of buttery garlic ranch sauce for dipping.
The combination of crispy dill pickles and juicy chicken creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your guests.
Tips for Perfect Skewers
For the best results, pat the chicken dry with paper towels before marinating. This helps the marinade adhere better and ensures a quick sear on the grill.
Also, consider using a rimmed baking sheet to catch any drips while marinating or grilling, making cleanup easier.
Variations and Additions
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or add vegetables to the skewers for added color and nutrition. Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini can complement the chicken beautifully.
For a spicy kick, drizzle some hot honey over the skewers before serving, enhancing the tangy flavor with a touch of sweetness.
Juicy Dill Pickle Chicken Skewers
These chicken skewers are marinated in a pickle brine that acts as a natural tenderizer, ensuring juicy and flavorful pieces. The recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people. Perfect for grilling or using an air fryer, these skewers are sure to impress at your next cookout.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pickle juice from a jar of pickles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon ranch dressing mix (click here for my recipe)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
- 1 pound boneless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
- Pickle chips for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, combine pickle juice, olive oil, ranch dressing mix, brown sugar, salt, minced garlic, and fresh dill. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a resealable bag or bowl, pour the marinade over, and ensure all pieces are well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
- Preheat Grill Pan or Air Fryer: If using a grill pan, preheat it over medium-high heat. If using an air fryer, preheat it to 400°F (200°C).
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, placing three pieces per skewer. Repeat layers until all chicken is skewered.
- Cook the Skewers: For grill pan, place skewers on the hot surface and cook for 7-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the thickest part registers 165°F (74°C). For air fryer, cook for 6-7 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Serve: Remove skewers from the heat and brush with melted butter mixed with chicken broth. Serve with extra pickles and buttery garlic ranch dressing for dipping (click here for my recipe).
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 48 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 skewers
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
This recipe is part of my 79 Super Bowl Party Food Ideas and Recipes. Just click that link to see all the amazing options!
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