Grilled chicken kabobs are fun, tasty bites packed with juicy chicken and colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions. They’re perfect for summer cookouts!
These kabobs are super easy to make; just marinate the chicken, skewer it with the veggies, and grill! I love serving them with a side of rice or a fresh salad. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the star of the dish! You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier option. They add more flavor and tenderness.
Bell Peppers: Using a mix of colors not only adds visual appeal but also different flavors. You can swap them for other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
Zucchini: This veggie brings a lovely texture. If zucchini isn’t available, yellow squash is a great substitute, or you can use eggplant for a heartier option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is great for flavor, but you could use vegetable oil or avocado oil too. These alternatives will work well if you’re looking to use what you have on hand.
Spices: If you want to switch up the flavor, try adding cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for a different taste profile.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Cook Evenly?
Cooking kabobs can be tricky, but spacing is key! Make sure you leave a little gap between each piece on the skewers. This helps the heat circulate properly.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This is important for achieving the right level of char without burning.
- Turn the skewers occasionally while they cook. This helps everything cook evenly. Aim for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Let the skewers rest after grilling. This helps keep the juices in the meat, making your kabobs even tastier!
How to Make Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
For the Marinade:
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken kabobs recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating in the fridge. After prepping, the grilling will take about 10 to 15 minutes. So, in total, you’re looking at around 1 hour for a lovely meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Stir it well until you have a tasty marinade that will coat the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to your marinade. Make sure they are well coated in the mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and place it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors come together nicely!
3. Prepare the Grill and Skewers:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Then, prepare your skewers by threading the marinated chicken and chunks of red, yellow, and green bell peppers, zucchini slices, and onion pieces onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Once your grill is hot, place the skewers on it. Cook the kabobs for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be fully cooked (no pink inside) and the vegetables to be tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish your kabobs with fresh cilantro and serve them with lime wedges on the side. Dig in and enjoy your warm, delicious grilled chicken kabobs!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the zucchini, bell peppers, and onion for your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary for different veggies, so check for doneness as you grill!
How Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Great idea! Just prepare the marinade as directed, add the chicken, and cover it tightly. Refrigerate overnight to infuse the flavors thoroughly. Just be sure to grill it the next day to ensure freshness—no need to let it sit out!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the microwave or warm them gently on the grill for a few minutes to get that char back!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. Enjoy the indoor grilling experience!
