Easy Chicken Kebabs

Name: Easy Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 34 min
Yield: Approximately five servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless chicken thighs; 1/8 cup soy sauce; 1/8 cup olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 lemon, juiced; 3 multicolored bell peppers

Published: June 23, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: These Easy Chicken Kebabs come together in just 20 minutes of prep time, making them ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
Flavorful Marinade: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and lemon juice creates a mouthwatering marinade that infuses the chicken with rich flavors.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize your kebabs with various vegetables or even fruits to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Grill-Friendly: Perfect for outdoor grilling, these kebabs give you that smoky flavor that everyone loves during summer cookouts.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and low in carbs, these chicken kebabs make for a nutritious meal option.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather the essential tools needed to make your Easy Chicken Kebabs. Having the right equipment will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skewers
Large bowl
Grill or grill pan
Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

Skewers: They hold the chicken and veggies together while cooking, ensuring even grilling.
Large bowl: A spacious bowl is perfect for mixing marinade ingredients and marinating the chicken.
Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving those delicious grill marks and smoky flavor on your kebabs.

Ingredients

Very tender and so flavorful, these Easy Chicken Kebabs are a must-try this summer! This is my go-to kebab recipe.

For the Chicken Marinade

2 lbs. boneless chicken thighs, cut into medium pieces
1/8 cup soy sauce
1/8 cup olive oil
1 tsp. dried oregano
3 medium garlic cloves, minced
1/2 medium lemon, juiced

For the Vegetables

3 medium multicolored bell peppers, cut into medium pieces

For Cooking

Skewers

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Easy Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl.
Add soy sauce, olive oil, dried oregano, minced garlic, and lemon juice to the bowl.
Mix everything well until all chicken pieces are coated in the marinade.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor).

Step 2: Preheat Your Grill

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat while you prepare your skewers.

Step 3: Assemble the Skewers

Take the marinated chicken out of the refrigerator.
Thread chicken pieces onto skewers alternately with bell peppers.

Step 4: Grill Your Kebabs

Oil the grilling grate to prevent sticking.
Place skewers on the grill; cook for about 7 minutes on each side or until chicken is well done.

With these easy steps, you’ll have delicious Easy Chicken Kebabs ready to impress your friends and family! Enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Kebabs

Easy Chicken Kebabs are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a casual family dinner, these kebabs will impress everyone at the table.

On a Bed of Rice

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: Serve your kebabs on a bed of fluffy jasmine rice for a fragrant and satisfying meal.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Add a zesty twist with cilantro lime rice that complements the flavors of the chicken.

With Fresh Salad

Greek Salad: Pair your kebabs with a refreshing Greek salad filled with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese.
Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds freshness.

In Wraps

Pita Wraps: Place the kebabs in warm pita bread with tzatziki sauce and veggies for a delicious handheld meal.
Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves to wrap the chicken and veggies.

As Appetizers

Skewered Appetizers: Cut the skewers into smaller pieces for bite-sized appetizers that are perfect for parties.
Dipping Sauces: Serve with various dipping sauces like BBQ, ranch, or garlic sauce to enhance the flavors.

How to Perfect Easy Chicken Kebabs

To ensure your Easy Chicken Kebabs are always tender and flavorful, follow these helpful tips.

Marinate Overnight: Allowing the chicken to marinate for 24 hours enhances its flavor and tenderness.
Use Skewers Wisely: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure all chicken pieces are similar in size for even cooking on the grill.
Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill promotes nice sear marks and helps lock in moisture during cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave some space between pieces on the skewer for even cooking and better heat circulation.
Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Kebabs

Pairing your Easy Chicken Kebabs with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to complement your kebabs.

Grilled Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables grilled alongside the kebabs adds color and flavor.
Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa tossed with veggies and herbs makes for a nutritious side dish.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and freshness, balancing out the savory chicken.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter is a classic summer side that pairs well with kebabs.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide a hearty complement to this meal.
Hummus and Pita Chips: A creamy hummus dip served with crunchy pita chips offers a great starter option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Chicken Kebabs, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect flavor and texture.

Skipping the Marinade: Many people skip marinating the chicken. This step is essential for infusing flavor and ensuring tenderness. Always allow your chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for the best results.
Using Wooden Skewers Without Soaking: If you use wooden skewers, failing to soak them can lead to burnt sticks. Soak skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from catching fire.
Not Preheating the Grill: Grilling on a cold surface can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your grill to medium-high heat before adding the kebabs for perfect grilling.
Overcrowding the Skewers: Placing too much meat and vegetables on a skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure there’s space between pieces so they cook evenly and get that delicious grilled flavor.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Every grill is different, and not checking your chicken can lead to undercooked or overcooked kebabs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Easy Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container.
They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken Kebabs

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

Reheating Easy Chicken Kebabs

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat kebabs on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in short bursts of 30 seconds until hot, but be cautious as microwaves can dry out the meat.
Stovetop: Add a little oil to a skillet over medium heat. Cook kebabs for about 5-7 minutes, turning frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs for Easy Chicken Kebabs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may require less marinating time since they are leaner than thighs.

How long should I marinate my chicken for Easy Chicken Kebabs?

For optimal flavor and tenderness, marinate your chicken for at least 2 hours but no more than 24 hours.

What vegetables pair well with Easy Chicken Kebabs?

Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes make great additions that complement the chicken beautifully.

Can I make Easy Chicken Kebabs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the kebabs ahead of time by marinating them and threading onto skewers. Just store them in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Easy Chicken Kebabs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or spices. Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight meals, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table. Give it a try!

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