These chicken skewers are full of flavor thanks to a zesty chicken kabob marinade! Perfect for grilling, they’re juicy, tender, and make an easy meal that’s always a hit!
Whenever I make these skewers, my friends start gathering around the grill! Who can resist the tasty smell? Just soak the chicken in the marinade and thread it on sticks—so simple!
What I love is how quickly they cook on the grill. In no time, you’ll have a yummy dinner ready! Serve with veggies or rice for a complete meal that’s sure to please!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for skewers as they cook quickly. If you’re looking for alternatives, try chicken thighs for more flavor or even shrimp for a quicker grill time.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness and color. You can substitute with green bell peppers for a more bitter flavor or use other veggies like cherry tomatoes or mushrooms for variety.
Zucchini: Sliced zucchini gives a nice texture and is easy to skewer. If you can’t find zucchini, try using yellow squash, which has a similar taste and cooking time.
Marinade Ingredients: The combination of olive oil, soy sauce, and honey gives a delicious flavor. If you need a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce. Agave syrup can substitute honey if you prefer a vegan option.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Cooked on the Grill?
Grilling chicken skewers might seem tricky, but with some tips, you’ll get them right every time. Start by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to add flavor and help with moisture.
- Soak bamboo skewers in water to prevent them from burning. Soak for about 30 minutes before threading.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high. This helps sear the chicken quickly, locking in juices.
- When grilling, keep turning the skewers every few minutes for even cooking and good grill marks. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping your chicken tender.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Chicken Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs 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 thick rounds
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch chunks
- Bamboo or metal skewers
For The Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp honey
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time and should marinate for at least 30 minutes. The grilling will take around 10-15 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at about 1 hour to enjoy these delicious chicken skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well mixed. This flavorful marinade will bring great taste to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Make sure all the chicken cubes are well coated in the sauce. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours!
3. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to keep them from burning on the grill. This is an important step! While they soak, you can chop your vegetables if you haven’t done so already.
4. Get the Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your skewers cook evenly and get those beautiful grill marks!
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Grab the marinated chicken and start threading it onto the skewers, alternating with pieces of red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini rounds, and red onion chunks. This colorful mix not only looks great but also adds delicious flavors!
6. Grill the Skewers:
Place your skewers on the grill and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. Be sure to turn them occasionally so they cook thoroughly. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once the skewers are grilled, remove them from the grill and let them sit for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle in, making them even tastier!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the skewers warm, and if you’d like, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color. Enjoy your amazing chicken skewers with family or friends!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Options like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple work great. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a fantastic way to enhance the flavor. Just ensure to keep the marinade in the refrigerator and use it within 24 hours for the best taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can be reheated in the microwave or on the grill for a couple of minutes to warm through. Just note that grilling will help retain the original texture!
What Can I Serve With These Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a side of tzatziki or hummus for dipping!
