BBQ Pork Skewers bring bold Filipino style flavor straight to your grill. They turn juicy pork strips into sticky, sweet, and slightly spicy bites with a rich caramelized glaze. Moreover, they are simple to prep ahead, which makes dinner feel easy and fun.
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Why You’ll Love These BBQ Pork Skewers
BBQ Pork Skewers pack sweet, tangy, and savory flavor into every juicy bite. Because the marinade blends Coca Cola, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic, you get a deep caramelized glaze that tastes both comforting and exciting.
In fact, the sugar helps the pork char beautifully on the grill, while the vinegar and lemon juice add balance. As a result, each skewer tastes sticky, slightly smoky, and just a little spicy from the red pepper flakes and sriracha.
Additionally, you can prep BBQ Pork Skewers ahead of time. Simply marinate the pork for at least four hours or overnight, and then grill when ready. That means less stress at dinner time.
They also use budget friendly ingredients you likely already have. Meanwhile, you can swap in chicken or beef if needed, which makes this recipe flexible for busy families.
Whether you cook for a weeknight meal or a backyard cookout, BBQ Pork Skewers always draw a crowd.
Ingredients for BBQ Pork Skewers
To make BBQ Pork Skewers, you need simple pantry staples plus fresh pork. However, each ingredient plays an important role in building that classic Filipino style flavor.
Below, you will find everything broken into clear sections so you can prep with confidence.
Pork and Skewers
Start with four boneless thick cut pork chops, about 1.5 pounds total. Then slice each chop into four even strips so you have around sixteen pieces. Cutting evenly helps the BBQ Pork Skewers cook at the same rate on the grill.
You will also need eight large skewers. Soak wooden skewers in water before grilling because this step helps prevent burning. If you prefer, you can use metal skewers instead.
If you do not have pork chops, pork shoulder or pork butt works well. Simply cut them into long strips so they thread easily.
Filipino Style BBQ Marinade
The marinade makes BBQ Pork Skewers truly special. First, Coca Cola adds sweetness and helps the pork caramelize. Meanwhile, brown sugar deepens the sticky glaze.
Soy sauce brings salty umami flavor, while ketchup adds tang and body. In addition, apple cider vinegar and lemon juice brighten the mixture and balance the sweetness.
Finely chopped onion and minced garlic build a savory base. Then red pepper flakes and sriracha add gentle heat without overpowering the dish. Finally, a touch of salt and black pepper rounds everything out.
When combined, these ingredients create a sweet, tangy, slightly spicy sauce that clings beautifully to the pork as it grills.
Tools You’ll Need
You do not need fancy tools for BBQ Pork Skewers. However, having the right basics makes the process smooth.
Grab a cutting board and a sharp knife for slicing the pork. Then use a large mixing bowl and a whisk to combine the marinade. Measuring cups and spoons help keep flavors balanced.
You will also need an airtight container or zip top bag for marinating. Outside, prepare your grill, tongs, a basting brush, and a meat thermometer. The thermometer helps you cook the pork to 160°F safely and accurately.
How to Make BBQ Pork Skewers Step by Step
Making BBQ Pork Skewers feels simple once you break it into clear steps. Therefore, follow along and take your time.
Slice the Pork Evenly
First, place the pork chops on a cutting board. Then slice each one into four long strips. Try to keep the strips similar in thickness because even pieces cook evenly.
This step sets you up for tender, juicy BBQ Pork Skewers that grill at the same pace.
Mix and Reserve the Marinade
Next, combine Coca Cola, brown sugar, chopped onion, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sriracha in a large bowl. Whisk well until the sugar dissolves.
Then set aside about one quarter of the marinade in a separate bowl. You will use this reserved portion for basting later, which keeps everything safe and flavorful.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
Add the pork strips to the remaining marinade. Coat each piece well, then cover and refrigerate for at least four hours. However, if you have time, marinate overnight for deeper flavor.
As the pork rests, it absorbs the sweet and tangy mixture. In turn, the meat becomes more tender and flavorful.
Thread the Skewers
After marinating, thread two to four pork strips lengthwise onto each skewer. Leave a little space between pieces so heat circulates evenly.
Because the strips lie flat, they cook quickly and caramelize beautifully.
Grill and Baste to Perfection
Preheat your grill to medium heat. Then lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the BBQ Pork Skewers on the grill and close the lid.
Turn the skewers every three to four minutes. Meanwhile, brush them with the reserved marinade between turns. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
As they cook, the sugars bubble and darken. You will see a glossy, caramelized coating form. Once done, remove the BBQ Pork Skewers and serve immediately.
Tips for Perfectly Caramelized Pork Skewers
Because the marinade contains sugar, keep the grill at medium heat. If the heat runs too high, the glaze may burn before the pork cooks through.
Also, never skip soaking wooden skewers. This small step prevents charring and keeps your BBQ Pork Skewers intact.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Although the outside may look done, checking the internal temperature gives peace of mind.
If flare ups happen, move the skewers to a cooler side of the grill. Then continue cooking slowly. Finally, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving so the juices settle.
Recipe Variations and Substitutions
BBQ Pork Skewers work well with different cuts and proteins. For example, you can swap pork shoulder or pork butt for a richer texture.
Additionally, the same marinade tastes great on chicken thighs, chicken breasts, drumsticks, or even beef. Simply adjust cooking time as needed.
If you cook for a larger group, double or triple the ingredients. Because the marinade scales easily, it fits parties and cookouts.
For more heat, add extra sriracha or red pepper flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer sweeter skewers, increase the brown sugar slightly.
You can even explore BBQ Pork Skewers variations for easy dinner ideas when you want something similar but different.
What to Serve with BBQ Pork Skewers
BBQ Pork Skewers pair beautifully with simple sides. For instance, steamed white rice soaks up the sweet and savory glaze.
Hawaiian macaroni salad adds creamy contrast. Meanwhile, pandesal rolls feel soft and slightly sweet beside the smoky pork.
Roasted potatoes or grilled vegetables bring balance and texture. In addition, classic potato salad works well for backyard meals.
If you want a full dinner spread, try BBQ Pork Skewers paired with Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini dinner or BBQ Pork Skewers alongside Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls dinner for variety.
For comfort food nights, you might enjoy BBQ Pork Skewers with Beef Tips and Noodles comfort dinner or even BBQ Pork Skewers and Crispy Black Bean Tacos easy dinner recipe for a fun twist.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover BBQ Pork Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.
When ready to reheat, warm them on the grill over medium low heat for a few minutes. Alternatively, use an oven at 325°F until heated through.
You can also use an air fryer for quick reheating. However, watch closely so the glaze does not burn. Adding a light brush of sauce or a splash of water helps keep the pork moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to barbecue pork skewers?
BBQ Pork Skewers usually cook in about 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat. Turn them every three to four minutes and cook until they reach 160°F internally.
What pork is best for barbecue skewers?
Thick cut boneless pork chops work great for BBQ Pork Skewers. However, pork shoulder or pork butt also delivers juicy results when sliced into strips.
What to have with pork skewers?
Serve BBQ Pork Skewers with rice, macaroni salad, roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or soft rolls. These sides balance the sweet and savory glaze.
How to make the best barbecue skewers?
For the best BBQ Pork Skewers, marinate the pork at least four hours, grill over medium heat, baste often, and cook to the proper temperature. Let them rest briefly before serving.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- BBQ Pork Skewers alternative with Korean BBQ Steak Rice Bowls
- BBQ Pork Skewers variations for easy dinner ideas
- BBQ Pork Skewers paired with Easy Baked Chicken and Zucchini dinner
- BBQ Pork Skewers alongside Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowls dinner
- BBQ Pork Skewers with Beef Tips and Noodles comfort dinner
- BBQ Pork Skewers and Crispy Black Bean Tacos easy dinner recipe
Conclusion
BBQ Pork Skewers combine sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors in one irresistible bite. Because the marinade works ahead of time, you can prep early and grill when ready.
They caramelize beautifully, taste juicy and tender, and fit both weeknight dinners and weekend cookouts. Moreover, you can adjust the heat or sweetness to match your family’s taste.
So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and make BBQ Pork Skewers for your next dinner. Once you try them, they might become a new favorite in your home.
Before you go, you can find more meal inspiration on my Pinterest page at pinterest where I share easy family dinners.
BBQ Pork Skewers
Equipment
- Grill Preheat to medium heat
- Mixing bowl For marinade
- Whisk To combine marinade ingredients
- Tongs For turning skewers
- Meat thermometer Cook pork to 160°F
- Basting brush Brush reserved marinade onto skewers
- Cutting board and knife For slicing pork
Ingredients
- 4 boneless thick cut pork chops, cut into strips
- 8 large skewers, soaked in water
- ⅓ cup Coca Cola
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup ketchup
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon sriracha
Instructions
- Slice each pork chop into four even strips so you have about sixteen pieces total.
- In a large bowl, whisk together Coca Cola, brown sugar, chopped onion, soy sauce, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and sriracha. Reserve one quarter of the marinade in a separate bowl for basting.
- Add the pork strips to the remaining marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Thread two to four marinated pork strips lengthwise onto each soaked skewer.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Place skewers on the grill, close the lid, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, turning every 3 to 4 minutes. Baste with the reserved marinade between turns. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 160°F and the pork is caramelized. Serve immediately.
