Connecticut Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers on the Arteflame

Introduction

There's nothing quite like the smoky sweetness of perfectly grilled Connecticut Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers. With the Arteflame grill, we achieve an incredible sear on the center grill grate at 1,000°F, locking in all those flavorful juices before finishing to perfection on the flat cooktop. The honey BBQ glaze caramelizes beautifully over the open flame, giving you a dish that's both juicy and packed with mouthwatering BBQ flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1/2 cup Connecticut honey
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp butter (for grilling)
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Fire up the Arteflame grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them in the center of the grill.
2. Stack firewood over top of the napkins.
3. Light the napkins and allow the fire to establish.
4. Heat for about 20 minutes until the center grate reaches 1,000°F.

Step 2: Prepare the glaze

1. In a mixing bowl, combine Connecticut honey, BBQ sauce, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Whisk thoroughly until well mixed.

Step 3: Skewer the chicken

1. Thread the chicken cubes onto the pre-soaked wooden skewers.
2. Ensure even spacing to allow uniform cooking.

Step 4: Sear the chicken

1. Melt butter on the center grill grate.
2. Place skewers directly on the center grate for 1-2 minutes per side to form a perfect sear.

Step 5: Glaze and finish

1. Move the chicken skewers onto the outer flat cooktop.
2. Brush generously with the honey BBQ glaze.
3. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes, turning and basting every few minutes.

Step 6: Check temperature and rest

1. Remove skewers from the grill when the internal temperature reaches 160°F (it will rise to 165°F off the grill).
2. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Pre-soaking wooden skewers prevents burning.
• Always remove the meat from the grill 15°F before the target temperature.
• Butter enhances the flavor better than olive oil.
• Use different heat zones of the cooktop for better control.

Variations

1. Spicy Honey BBQ: Add 1 tsp cayenne pepper to the glaze for extra heat.
2. Teriyaki Honey Skewers: Replace BBQ sauce with teriyaki sauce for an Asian twist.
3. Garlic Herb: Mix fresh minced garlic and chopped rosemary into the glaze.
4. Citrus Honey BBQ: Add the juice of one orange for a tangy kick.
5. Bourbon Honey Glaze: Add 1 tbsp bourbon to the glaze for a rich depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Grilling these Connecticut Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers on the Arteflame grill brings out the best flavors in every bite. The seared exterior locks in the juices, while the honey BBQ glaze caramelizes beautifully. This easy yet impressive dish is perfect for any gathering!

Best Pairings

• Grilled corn on the cob with butter
• Smoky baked beans
• Fresh coleslaw
• Grilled sweet potatoes
• Chilled lemonade or a smoky bourbon cocktail