These chicken skewers are juicy and full of flavor, thanks to a tasty kabob marinade. Perfect for grilling, they are great for summer BBQs or quick weeknight meals!
Honestly, they disappear faster than I can put them on the grill! I love serving them with a fresh salad or warm pita. It’s like a fun party on a stick! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of this dish! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for its tenderness. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, try chicken thighs—they stay juicy and flavorful.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow add sweetness and color. Feel free to mix in green or orange peppers if that’s what you have. They all contribute a lovely crunch!
Zucchini: Sliced rounds add great texture. If zucchini isn’t available, consider using mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for a fun twist.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps capture the marinade. If you prefer, swap it with avocado oil or even melted butter for a different taste.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the marinade beautifully. If fresh lemons aren’t handy, bottled lemon juice works fine, though fresh is always best.
Spices: The combination of oregano, paprika, and cumin really elevates the flavor. For a spicy kick, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes!
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy?
Keeping the chicken juicy is all about the marinade and cooking technique. Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to soak in. If you can, go for 2-4 hours; the longer, the better!
- Mix the marinade thoroughly and coat the chicken evenly for the best flavor.
- When grilling, keep an eye on the heat. Medium-high is ideal—too hot can dry the chicken out.
- Turn the skewers occasionally to get even cooking and those lovely grill marks.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. Resting helps retain the juices, so you get tender, flavorful bites!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Skewers?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extras:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep time, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. The actual cooking time on the grill is around 10-15 minutes. So, if you marinate for 2-4 hours, you can enjoy these skewers in about 3 hours—perfect for an easy dinner or gathering!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything together well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and mix until each piece is coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the fridge. The longer it marinates, the better the flavor! Aim for at least 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is even better.
3. Preparing the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. This step is important for getting the perfect texture! While they soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Assembling the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Alternate threading the marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion pieces onto your skewers. Make it colorful—it’s all about presentation!
5. Grilling the Skewers:
Carefully place the skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 10–15 minutes, turning them occasionally to get nice grill marks and ensure the chicken cooks evenly. It should be cooked through and no longer pink in the middle.
6. Serving:
Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle. Serve your delicious chicken skewers with sides like rice or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Other Proteins for These Skewers?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with other proteins like shrimp, beef, or tofu. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For shrimp, grill for about 5–7 minutes, while beef may take around 15–20 minutes to reach desired doneness.
What Can I Do If I Don’t Have Wooden Skewers?
No worries! You can use metal skewers instead, which are reusable and won’t burn. If you choose to use wooden skewers, making sure to soak them in water helps prevent burning on the grill!
How to Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on a grill or in the oven to maintain the texture. You can also enjoy them cold in salads or wraps!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade in advance! Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using. Just give it a good stir when you’re ready to marinate your chicken to re-emulsify the ingredients.
