Grilled chicken kabobs are colorful and fun! With juicy pieces of chicken, veggies like bell peppers and onions, they make a tasty meal everyone will love.
Just skewer everything, season it up, and grill! They’re perfect for summer barbecues or a quick dinner. Plus, kids love to help with the skewering—just watch those fingers! 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts is great for kabobs as they cook evenly. If you like dark meat, chicken thighs are flavorful and stay moister when grilled. You can even substitute with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option!
Bell Peppers: These add color and sweetness. If you’re missing a color, any variety of bell pepper works. You can even use mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for a change of flavor. They grill nicely and add a different texture!
Olive Oil: This serves as the base for the marinade. While olive oil is fantastic, you can substitute it with avocado oil or any neutral oil you prefer. Just remember, good quality oil enhances flavor.
Spices: Paprika and cumin create a lovely depth. Don’t have them? Try using taco seasoning or Italian herbs instead, though the flavor will change slightly. Experiment and find what you love!
How Do I Ensure Tender and Juicy Chicken on My Kabobs?
Marinating the chicken is key to getting it tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it right:
- Keep the marinade simple: oil, acid (like lemon juice), and your choice of seasonings.
- Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. Longer (up to 4 hours) means more flavor and tenderness.
- When grilling, make sure your grill is preheated! This sears the chicken, sealing in the juices.
- Turn the kabobs occasionally for even cooking. Look for a golden color and grill marks.
Letting the kabobs rest briefly after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy.
How to Make Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to grill, plus marinating time. Allow at least 30 minutes for the chicken to absorb those delicious flavors, or up to 4 hours for the best taste!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Use a whisk to mix everything together until it’s nicely blended into a marinade that smells amazing!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes into the marinade, making sure each piece is coated well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, let it marinate for up to 4 hours to really enhance the flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to get your skewers ready! Thread the marinated chicken, along with the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion pieces onto the skewers. Mix and alternate the ingredients to create a colorful and tasty display!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent the kabobs from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally, so they get those lovely grill marks and cook evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is cooked through and looks delicious, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your grilled chicken kabobs on a platter, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves and lime wedges. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and even eggplant work great. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for doneness accordingly!
What If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! You can cook the chicken and vegetables in a grill basket instead. This method keeps everything from falling through the grates and is equally delicious! Just make sure to stir occasionally for even cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, try using a grill or skillet to maintain that grilled flavor, or pop them in the microwave for a quick warm-up.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor even more! Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as overly marinated chicken can become mushy. Make sure to keep it in the fridge while marinating!
