Name: Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 8 h 22 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes; 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups (16 ounces) dill pickle juice; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 cup dill pickle ranch dressing, divided (plus more for dipping); Fresh dill, chopped for garnish

Introduction

Dill Pickle Ranch Skewers are a tangy and flavorful twist on classic grilled chicken. Marinated in dill pickle juice and seasoned with a blend of spices, these skewers are finished with creamy dill pickle ranch dressing for a mouthwatering finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer.

The image shows several skewers of grilled chicken pieces coated in a creamy white sauce with visible herbs, placed on brown parchment paper inside a metal tray. The chicken chunks are golden-brown with charred spots and scattered with small green bits. On the tray, there are small pieces of diced pickles and a whole pickle on the side. A small white round bowl filled with thick, white dipping sauce topped with green herbs is also inside the tray. The tray is placed on a white marbled textured surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8-10 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)

2 cups (16 ounces) dill pickle juice

1 teaspoon kosher salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

1 cup dill pickle ranch dressing (divided, plus more for dipping)

Fresh dill (chopped for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the dill pickle juice. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours to marinate.

Step 2: When ready to cook, whisk together kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a separate bowl. Toss the marinated chicken in the seasoning mixture until evenly coated.

Step 3: Thread the seasoned chicken pieces onto the soaked wooden skewers, distributing them evenly.

Step 4: Pour ½ cup of dill pickle ranch dressing into a small bowl and brush the chicken skewers generously. Reserve the remaining dressing for after cooking.

Step 5: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick spray.

Step 6: Arrange the skewers in a single layer in the basket. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.

Step 7: Air fry the skewers for 11-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 8: Once cooked, brush the skewers generously with the reserved dill pickle ranch dressing. Garnish with chopped fresh dill.

Step 9: Serve the skewers with extra dill pickle ranch dressing for dipping and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Soaking wooden skewers helps prevent them from burning during cooking.

For a grill option, cook skewers over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, turning regularly.

Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you prefer juicier meat.

Add sliced veggies like bell peppers or onions on the skewers for added flavor and color.

If you can’t find dill pickle ranch dressing, mix ranch dressing with a bit of chopped dill pickles or a splash of pickle juice.

FAQs

Can I marinate the chicken for less time?

While marinating overnight yields the best flavor and tenderness, you can marinate the chicken for at least 8 hours or as little as 2 hours in a pinch. The longer, the better.

Can I cook these skewers without an air fryer?

Yes, these skewers can be cooked on a grill or under a broiler. Preheat to medium heat and cook turning every few minutes until chicken is fully cooked, about 10-12 minutes.