These grilled chicken kabobs are packed with juicy goodness! Marinated chicken, colorful veggies, and a bit of smoky flavor make them a fun and tasty meal for any day.
They’re perfect for BBQs or family dinners, and let’s face it, who doesn’t love getting a little messy with sticks and sauce? I like to serve mine with some warm naan—it’s the best!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to work with and cook quickly. If you want a different flavor or texture, consider using chicken thighs. They’re a bit juicier and can add more richness to your kabobs.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add color and sweetness. If you can’t find them, green bell peppers or even cherry tomatoes work well. They’ll all provide that nice crunch and vibrant look!
Zucchini: This vegetable gives a lovely mild flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, try using mushrooms, asparagus, or even eggplant. Each will bring a unique taste to your kabobs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key to infusing flavor into the marinade. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder is a convenient alternative. Just use 1/8 teaspoon for each clove you need to replace.
Herbs and Spices: The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano creates a wonderful flavor. If you prefer a different spice mix, feel free to experiment with chili powder or Italian seasoning.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly?
Getting your kabobs cooked just right is all about preparation and technique! Here’s how to help your kabobs cook evenly:
- Make sure all your ingredients are cut into similar sizes, around 1-inch pieces, so they cook at the same rate.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water to prevent burning. If you have metal skewers, no need to worry!
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken quickly, sealing in the juiciness.
- Turn your kabobs occasionally on the grill. Aim for 10-15 minutes total cooking time, watching for nice grill marks.
Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling helps keep them juicy too. Happy grilling!
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 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. Once everything is ready, grilling will take around 10 to 15 minutes. So, you can enjoy your delicious grilled chicken kabobs in about 1 hour, including marinating time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until well mixed, creating a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade in the bowl. Toss them around to ensure all the pieces are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will give it even more flavor!
3. Prepare for Grilling:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in a bowl of water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to put everything on the skewers! Start by threading a piece of chicken onto a skewer, followed by a piece of red bell pepper, then yellow bell pepper, a slice of zucchini, and a piece of onion. Repeat this pattern until all the ingredients are used up, ensuring you have an even mix on each skewer.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. You can check the chicken’s doneness by cutting a piece to see if it’s no longer pink inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Serve your yummy kabobs garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Button mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or eggplant work wonderfully. Just remember to cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight will enhance the flavors even more! Just be cautious about the acidity from the lemon juice; if you marinate too long, the chicken can become slightly mushy. Aim for a maximum of 12 hours for the best texture.
How to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
What Type of Skewers Should I Use?
You can use either wooden or metal skewers. If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and eliminate this step, but they can get very hot, so use caution when handling them!
