These chicken skewers are packed with flavor thanks to a yummy marinade! Juicy pieces of chicken are grilled to perfection and served on sticks for easy eating. Perfect for BBQs!
I love how quick they are to prepare—just marinate the chicken and pop them on the grill! Plus, they disappear fast at dinner, so grab a few before they’re all gone! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish. For a juicier option, you can use chicken thighs instead. If you’re looking for a leaner choice, turkey breast also works well.
Bell Peppers: The red and yellow peppers add sweetness. Feel free to swap them for green peppers if you prefer a more bitter flavor. Other great options include cherry tomatoes or mushrooms.
Zucchini: It gives a nice texture and flavor. If zucchini isn’t available, you can use asparagus or summer squash in a similar way.
Olive Oil: This oil adds richness. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a different twist, or use a light vegetable oil if needed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor. If you don’t have fresh, garlic powder can be an alternative, though fresh is preferred for the best taste.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Marinated?
Marinating chicken is a key step that enhances its flavor and tenderness. The longer you marinate, the more flavor it absorbs, so aim for at least 30 minutes, but 4 hours is best. Make sure every piece is fully coated for even flavor.
- Whisk together all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Add cubed chicken, ensuring it’s evenly covered.
- Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge—remember, time gives you the best results!
How Do I Prevent My Skewers from Burning on the Grill?
If you’re using bamboo skewers, soaking them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling is essential. This helps prevent them from catching fire and burning while cooking.
- Fill a bowl or dish with water and submerge the skewers.
- Let them soak while you prepare the marinade and chicken.
- This simple step ensures your skewers stay intact during grilling.
Delicious Chicken Skewers with Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 lb chicken breast, 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 thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 8 skewers (bamboo or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 1 hour in total. You’ll need 10 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix the marinade, plus at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) for marinating the chicken, and another 15 minutes for grilling. Perfect for a delicious meal without too much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This fragrant mixture will coat your chicken beautifully!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breast into the bowl with the marinade. Stir until all the pieces are well-coated in that wonderful mix. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for extra flavor!
3. Prepare the Skewers and Grill:
If you’re using bamboo skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. This allows you to get that lovely grilled flavor without the skewers catching fire! While the chicken marinates and the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium heat.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated and the grill is hot, it’s time to thread everything onto the skewers! Alternate the marinated chicken cubs with pieces of red and yellow bell pepper, zucchini rounds, and red onion wedges. It’s not just tasty, it looks pretty too!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the preheated grill and let them cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through (no pink inside), and the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re cooked, take the skewers off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps all those juices stay locked in. Serve them warm, and if you like, garnish them with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for a bit of brightness. Enjoy your delicious chicken skewers!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the zucchini, bell peppers, and onion with your favorite vegetables. Good options include cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even chunks of pineapple for a sweet twist. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Use Leftover Marinade?
If you have leftover marinade, you can use it as a dressing for a salad or drizzle it over roasted vegetables. However, it’s important to note that any leftover marinade that has come into contact with raw chicken should be cooked before consumption to ensure it’s safe.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade. Start with a little and adjust to your taste! On the other hand, if you want a milder flavor, you can reduce the paprika or omit it entirely.
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers up to a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just make sure to grill them fresh for the best texture and taste. If the skewers are made with bamboo, remember to soak them in water 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning!
