These chicken skewers are juicy and full of flavor thanks to a tasty kabob marinade. It’s an easy dish that makes grilling a breeze!
I love how these skewers are perfect for sharing. Plus, you can load them up with your favorite veggies too! Just watch out—everyone will want a second helping! 😄
They cook up quick on the grill, making them a great choice for weeknight dinners. Serve them with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a meal everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: The star of the dish! Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for ease. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can work well too. For a more flavorful meat, you might even try chicken thighs.
Bell Peppers: I love using both red and yellow bell peppers for their sweetness and color. You could substitute with green bell peppers if you’d like a sharper flavor. Alternatively, cherry tomatoes or even mushrooms could add a delicious twist!
Zucchini: Fresh zucchini rounds add a nice crunch. Yellow squash can be substituted for a similar texture. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using eggplant slices instead.
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor. If you’re out of olive oil, you could use avocado oil or even melted coconut oil. Just ensure the oil you choose can handle the grill’s heat!
Spices: Ground cumin and smoked paprika are key for flavor depth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or even a bit of chili powder can give a different but tasty kick. Try to adjust according to your spice preference!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is the key here! Make sure to coat all the chicken pieces well in the marinade. I recommend letting them soak in the flavors for at least an hour, but overnight is best for richer flavor.
- Mix the marinade ingredients in a bowl and whisk until well combined.
- Cut your chicken and add it to the marinade. Stir to ensure it’s fully coated.
- Cover and store in the fridge to let the flavors penetrate the meat. You really can’t rush this step!
When grilling, be sure to stay near. Chicken can dry out if overcooked, so check it after 12 minutes. Perfectly cooked chicken should be firm but springy!
How to Make Delicious Chicken Skewers with Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into squares
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Additional:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 20 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook on the grill. If you’re looking for enhanced flavor, marinating the chicken for at least 1 hour—or even overnight—is recommended, so plan accordingly!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, take a moment to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This extra step helps prevent them from burning on the grill during cooking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will create a tasty marinade for the chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure they are all nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavors, aim for overnight!
4. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken marinated, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill is essential for getting those tasty grill marks.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to thread them onto the skewers! Take a skewer and alternate threading the marinated chicken pieces with squares of red and yellow bell pepper, zucchini rounds, and red onion. Mix it up to make them colorful and appetizing!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place the assembled skewers on the hot grill. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You’ll know they are done when the chicken is cooked through and has lovely grill marks.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy. Serve them warm, and if you like, garnish with fresh parsley for a bit of color!
Enjoy your delicious chicken skewers! They’re perfect for a backyard BBQ or a cozy dinner at home.
Can I Use Different Types of Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Good alternatives include cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even eggplant. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I Marinate the Chicken for Longer Than Overnight?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for even more flavor. Just be cautious not to exceed that time, as acidic marinades can make the chicken slightly mushy if left too long.
How to Store Leftovers?
Any leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but be careful not to dry them out!
What’s the Best Way to Serve Chicken Skewers?
These skewers are delicious served on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a side of couscous, rice, or a fresh salad. Drizzle with extra lemon juice or your favorite sauce for added flavor!
