Chicken Kabobs

These Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that brings together tender chicken and colorful vegetables, all infused with a flavorful marinade. Perfect for any gathering, these kabobs are easy to prepare on the grill or in your oven. Their vibrant presentation and mouthwatering taste make them a standout choice for family dinners, summer barbecues, or casual get-togethers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under 75 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor Packed: The marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious blend of savory and sweet flavors that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or use different proteins like shrimp or beef for variety.
• Healthy Option: These kabobs are packed with protein and veggies, making them a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Fun to Eat: Skewers make this dish fun and interactive; perfect for kids and adults alike!

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Grill or oven
• Zip-top bag or mixing bowl
• Basting brush (optional)
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for holding the chicken and vegetables together, allowing for even cooking on the grill or in the oven.
• Grill or Oven: Provides high heat needed to cook the kabobs quickly while keeping them juicy.
• Zip-top Bag: Perfect for marinating chicken without mess, ensuring every piece is well coated.

Ingredients

These Chicken Kabobs are made with chicken breasts, a flavorful chicken kabob marinade, and vegetables. This colorful meal is easy to make on the grill or in the oven.

For the Marinade

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (or honey)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried oregano)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 2 small or 1 medium zucchini (sliced into ½-inch thick rounds)
• 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces)
• 1 small red or yellow onion (cut into 1-inch chunks with a few layers still together)
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
• salt and pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a zip-top bag or dish:
– Olive oil
– Soy sauce
– Lemon juice
– Brown sugar
– Worcestershire sauce
– Minced garlic
– Italian seasoning
– Black pepper

Squish to mix in the bag or whisk if using a dish.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade. Ensure all pieces are coated well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours.

Step 3: Prepare Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in warm water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 4: Prepare Vegetables

Place zucchini rounds and chopped bell peppers in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper; toss gently to coat. Add onion last to maintain its layers.

Step 5: Assemble Kabobs

Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating between them. Aim for about 3 pieces of chicken and several vegetable pieces per skewer. Discard used marinade.

Step 6: Grill Kabobs

Grill over medium heat for about 12-18 minutes. Turn every few minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Chicken Kabobs

Chicken Kabobs are a versatile dish that can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you prefer a simple presentation or a more extravagant setup, there are plenty of options to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kabobs on a bed of fluffy rice for a filling meal. Jasmine or basmati rice pairs well with the flavors.

With Fresh Salad

• A crisp green salad complements the kabobs nicely. Consider using mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.

In Pita Bread

• For a fun twist, place the chicken kabobs in warm pita bread. Add some tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies for extra flavor.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer various dipping sauces like garlic sauce, BBQ sauce, or ranch on the side. This adds an interactive element to your meal.

As Part of a Buffet

• Include chicken kabobs in a buffet spread alongside other grilled meats and sides. They make for an appealing centerpiece.

Skewered Appetizers

• Cut the cooked kabobs into smaller pieces and serve them as appetizers at parties. Add toothpicks for easy eating.

How to Perfect Chicken Kabobs

To make your Chicken Kabobs even better, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and presentation.

• Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for up to 4 hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
• Use even-sized pieces: Cutting chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes ensures even cooking throughout the skewers.
• Soak wooden skewers: Soaking skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, allowing for perfectly cooked kabobs.
• Don’t overcrowd the skewers: Leaving space between pieces helps them cook evenly and develop nice grill marks.
• Check temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165° F for safe consumption.
• Rest before serving: Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling keeps them juicy when served.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Kabobs

Pairing your Chicken Kabobs with delicious side dishes enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies like asparagus or corn add vibrant colors and flavors.
2. Couscous Salad: This light salad made with couscous, herbs, and lemon brings freshness to your plate.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs make a satisfying side that everyone loves.
4. Quinoa Pilaf: A nutritious quinoa pilaf with nuts and cranberries offers a delightful texture contrast.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances the savory flavors of chicken kabobs perfectly.
6. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is always a hit; it’s great for soaking up any leftover juices from the kabobs.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad provides sweetness and lightens up your meal beautifully.
8. Mediterranean Dip Platter: Serve hummus, olives, and baba ganoush alongside pita chips for an appetizer-style side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Kabobs can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using dry chicken: Ensure you marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This helps keep it juicy and flavorful.
• Overcrowding the skewers: Avoid packing too much chicken and vegetables onto each skewer. Leave some space for even cooking and better flavor distribution.
• Skipping the soaking step: If you use wooden skewers, always soak them in water for at least 20 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
• Ignoring cooking times: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165° F to ensure safety.
• Not preheating the grill or oven: Always preheat your grill or oven before cooking. This helps achieve that perfect char and cook times.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Kabobs

• Place Chicken Kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350° F and place kabobs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking frequently until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil, and reheat kabobs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Chicken Kabobs more flavorful?

You can add more spices or herbs to the marinade. Experimenting with different seasonings like paprika or cayenne can enhance flavor.

Can I use other meats for kabobs?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu. Just adjust the marinade time according to the meat used.

What vegetables work best with Chicken Kabobs?

Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are great options. Feel free to mix and match based on your preferences!

How do I know when my Chicken Kabobs are done?

Check that the chicken pieces reach an internal temperature of 165° F using a meat thermometer for safe consumption.

Can I make these Chicken Kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken earlier in the day or even overnight. Just assemble and cook when you’re ready.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Kabobs are not only vibrant and delicious but also versatile enough to suit various tastes. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish truly your own. Give it a try at your next gathering!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Chicken Kabobs

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 48 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Discover the joy of these Chicken Kabobs, a colorful and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion! Marinated in a savory blend of olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and garlic, each bite offers a delightful combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Whether you grill them for a summer barbecue or roast them in the oven for a cozy family dinner, these kabobs are sure to impress. They are not only quick and easy to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences. Serve them over rice, in pita bread, or with your favorite dipping sauces for an interactive meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup low sodium soy sauce
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 small zucchini
• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 yellow bell pepper
• 1 small onion
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a zip-top bag or mixing bowl, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
3. Soak wooden skewers in warm water if using; this prevents burning during grilling.
4. Slice zucchini and chop bell peppers and onion into even pieces. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Thread marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers alternately.
6. Grill over medium heat for about 12-18 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 18 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 100mg