Picture golden cubes of chicken, soaked in tangy dill pickle juice, skewered and brushed with creamy ranch that hits both crisp and comfort zones. These Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers are the kind of dish that grabs attention at dinner and begs for seconds. They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fun, flavorful, and pretty much stress-free. Let’s roll up our sleeves and make skewers that will become a new favorite at your table.
What Is Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers / Why It’s Special
Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers combine the tangy punch of pickle juice with the creaminess of ranch dressing, all wrapped up in bite-sized chicken pieces grilled or air-fried to juicy perfection. What makes this recipe special is that unexpected pickle ranch combo—it transforms plain chicken into something bold and memorable. Plus, skewering the pieces means easy grilling, easy flipping, and easy serving at gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups 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 (½ cup for brushing before cooking, ½ cup for after)
- Fresh dill, chopped for garnish
- 8 – 10 wooden skewers (or metal skewers)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness
- Add chopped bell pepper or zucchini between chicken cubes for color and veggies
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken cubes into a large bowl and pour in the dill pickle juice. Cover, refrigerate, and let marinate overnight or at least 8 hours for full flavor penetration.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Drain the chicken from the pickle juice and discard the marinade. In a small bowl combine the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder and paprika. Toss the chicken cubes with this seasoning mix until evenly coated.
Step 3: Thread the Skewers & First Brush
Thread the seasoned chicken cubes onto the skewers (soak wooden ones in water 30 minutes first if needed). Brush half of the ranch dressing over each skewer, coating generously.
Step 4: Cook the Skewers
Pre-heat your air fryer to 400 °F (or pre-heat oven to 400 °F / grill to medium-high).
- Air fryer: Arrange skewers in basket, cook 11-12 minutes flipping halfway until internal temp reaches 165 °F.
- Oven: Place on parchment lined sheet, bake 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
- Grill: Grill each side 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked.
Step 5: Brush & Serve
Once cooked, brush the remaining ranch dressing over the skewers to lock in the flavor. Garnish with fresh chopped dill. Serve hot with extra ranch for dipping and your favorite sides.
Tips / Variations / Why You’ll Love It
- Tip: Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning and ensures safe cooking.
- Tip: Use pre-marinated or leftover shredded chicken if you’re short on time.
- Variation: Use metal skewers and cook on the grill for smoky flavor.
- Variation: Thread in veggies like red onion, bell pepper or zucchini for extra texture.
- Why You’ll Love It: The pickle juice adds moisture and tang, the ranch brings creamy comfort, and the skewers keep things fun and shareable. Great for entertaining kids or dinner with friends.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Boneless skinless chicken thighs work excellently and may stay even juicier.
Q2. Do I have to marinate the chicken overnight?
No, you can skip the overnight step. Marinating for 1 hour still adds good flavor, though overnight gives the best result.
Q3. Can these skewers be made without an air fryer?
Definitely. They work in the oven or on the grill just as well a little more time may be needed.
Q4. How long can leftovers be stored?
Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or air fryer with a little extra ranch for best taste.
Conclusion
These Dill Pickle Ranch Chicken Skewers are a fast, fun, and flavor-packed favorite. Whether you’re firing up the grill, prepping ahead for a weeknight or hosting a get-together, they bring zing, ease, and deliciousness to the table. Don’t wait make them this week and see how quickly they disappear.
✨ Try it this week and tag @EatTreatsRecipes on Pinterest or Instagram because comfort should always be this delicious!