Grilled chicken kabobs are tasty skewers filled with juicy pieces of chicken, colorful veggies, and spices! They’re perfect for summer grilling and fun to eat!
I love how easy they are to make. Just marinate the chicken, skewer with your favorite veggies, and grill. They’re great for dinner or a party! Plus, who doesn’t love food on a stick? 🌟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast works great for kabobs, but you can swap it for thighs if you prefer dark meat. Thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful on the grill.
Bell Peppers: A mix of yellow, red, and green bell peppers not only adds color but also a range of flavors. If you’re out of bell peppers, zucchini or mushrooms can replace them— just choose ones that grill well!
Olive Oil: It’s ideal for marinade due to its flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, canola or avocado oil are good substitutes, as they also have high smoke points.
Spices: Paprika and cumin add depth to the dish. If you want a little kick, consider adding cayenne pepper or chili powder. You can also use Italian seasoning if you’re in a pinch!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key! The marinade not only infuses great flavor but also helps keep the chicken moist. Here are some tips for marinating:
- Combine the marinade ingredients in a bowl and mix well before adding the chicken.
- Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes in the fridge. If you can, aim for 2 hours for extra flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd your skewers; space the meat and veggies out to ensure even cooking.
- Always check that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 onion, cut into chunks
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for prep and marinating, plus an additional 15 minutes for grilling. So, you can have these tasty kabobs ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, you’re ready to go!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a delicious marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them gently to coat each piece evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, feel free to let it marinate up to 2 hours!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a hot cooking surface for the kabobs, which will develop great grill marks.
5. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once your chicken is marinated, it’s time to put everything on the skewers! Thread the marinated chicken, along with the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a colorful and appealing look!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Remember to turn them every few minutes so that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks. You’ll know they are done when the chicken is cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, take the kabobs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices locked in, making them even more tasty!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, place the grilled chicken kabobs on a serving platter, sprinkle some fresh cilantro on top, and add lime wedges for squeezing over the kabobs. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just keep in mind the cooking times, as firmer veggies may take longer to cook, so you might want to pre-cook them slightly before skewering.
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you need a soy sauce substitute, you can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a slightly sweeter flavor. Just keep an eye on the saltiness, as these alternatives can vary in taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Grill These Kabobs Indoors?
Yes! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on your stovetop. Just ensure the kitchen is well-ventilated and cook over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
