Grilled Chicken Kabobs

There’s something magical about the summer nights spent around a grill, sharing laughter and tasty morsels with loved ones. One of my favorite go-to dishes for these occasions is Grilled Chicken Kabobs. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables combined with juicy chunks of grilled chicken evoke memories of family gatherings, laughter, and mouthwatering flavors. It’s amazing how a simple combination of chicken and seasonal veggies can transform a casual evening into a festive feast.

Preparing Grilled Chicken Kabobs is not just about the food; it’s about the experience. I remember the first time I made these kabobs; I was a little nervous. Would they turn out? Would everyone enjoy them? But as the chicken and veggies danced over the flames, that sweet, smoky aroma filled the air, and all my worries faded away. There’s nothing quite like the excitement of turning a few simple ingredients into a dish that brings everyone together.

This dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a weekend barbecue or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Grilled Chicken Kabobs fit perfectly into any occasion. You can mix and match your favorite vegetables, and the marinade is a fantastic way to showcase your culinary creativity. Each summer, I find myself experimenting with different flavors, spices, and sides. This year, I’m particularly excited about pairing these kabobs with a refreshing cucumber salad!

So grab your skewers and let’s get grilling! Grilled Chicken Kabobs are sure to ignite the summer spirit in your home and create unforgettable memories around the table.

Ingredient List for Grilled Chicken Kabobs

The ingredients for Grilled Chicken Kabobs are simple yet flavorful. Each element plays a vital role in ensuring the kabobs are delicious and memorable. The hero of the dish is undoubtedly the chicken, which soaks up the marinade beautifully, while the fresh vegetables add crunch and color.

• 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts: The main protein source, perfect for grilling and easy to cut into bite-sized pieces.
• 1 large red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the savory chicken.
• 1 large red onion: Provides a mild zest and enhances the overall flavor of the kabobs.
• 1 medium zucchini: A tender and nutritious addition that complements the other vegetables well.
• 1/2 cup olive oil: Acts as a base for the marinade, helping to keep the chicken moist.
• 3 T fresh-squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the dish with acidity and freshness.
• 1/2 tsp. fresh-ground black pepper: Adds a touch of heat and depth.
• 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning: A unique blend that adds a burst of flavor to the marinade.
• 1 T pureed or minced garlic: Infuses the kabobs with a savory aroma.
• 2 tsp. dried basil: Offers a hint of herbal flavor that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
• 1 tsp. dried oregano: Complements the flavors and brings an Italian flair.
• 1/2 tsp. dried sage: Adds a warm, earthy note.
• 1 tsp. onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor throughout the kabobs.

Preparation Steps for Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Making Grilled Chicken Kabobs is an enjoyable process that allows you to engage with your ingredients. The key is to marinate the chicken and vegetables long enough to infuse them with flavor. Let’s dive into the preparation!

1. Start by trimming the chicken breasts, cutting them into uniform cubes about 2 inches square. This ensures even cooking and helps the pieces stay moist.

2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, Spike Seasoning, pureed garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried sage, and onion powder. This marinade will transform your kabobs into a flavor-packed delight!

3. Place the chicken cubes in a large Ziploc bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag tightly, making sure all the pieces are coated. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. If you have time, let it marinate overnight for even better flavor.

4. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Peel the red onion and cut it into pieces approximately 2 inches square. Cut the ends off the red bell pepper, remove the seeds, and slice it into similar-sized chunks.

5. If using zucchini, cut off the ends, slice it in half lengthwise, and then cut it into 2-inch pieces. This will ensure they cook evenly alongside the chicken.

6. Store the cut vegetables in a container in the refrigerator while the chicken marinates. This keeps them fresh and crisp.

7. About 1 to 2 hours before you plan to cook, add the marinated vegetables to the bag with the chicken and let them soak up the flavors too.

8. Once you’re ready to grill, drain the chicken and vegetables, allowing them to come to room temperature. This helps them cook evenly on the grill.

9. Preheat your grill to high. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until it reaches medium-high heat. Spray the grill grates with nonstick spray or brush them with high smoke point oil to prevent sticking.

10. Now it’s time to assemble! Lay the chicken and vegetables out on a cutting board. You can either create a pattern or mix them up, depending on your family’s preferences.

11. Thread the ingredients onto the skewers, pressing them tightly together. This ensures they don’t spin and cook evenly.

12. Place the kabobs on the grill, then reduce the heat to medium-high. Grill for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until you see grill marks. The total cooking time will be around 12 to 16 minutes.

13. Check for doneness: the chicken should feel firm (but not hard) to the touch, and the vegetables should be lightly browned. Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill.

14. Serve hot and enjoy the delicious flavors of your freshly grilled Grilled Chicken Kabobs!

Tips for Success

Getting your kabobs just right is all about attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here’s how to ensure your Grilled Chicken Kabobs turn out perfectly every time:

• Storage: Leftovers, if there are any, can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: If you have extra marinated chicken, freeze it in a Ziploc bag for up to three months. Just thaw and grill when ready!
• Pairing: These kabobs pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, squash, or cherry tomatoes.
• Grill Marks: Look for beautiful grill marks before flipping the kabobs for that perfect charred flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Grilled Chicken Kabobs

When it comes to serving Grilled Chicken Kabobs, there are numerous options to elevate your meal. Here’s how to create a complete dining experience:

• Fresh Salads: Serve with a refreshing Greek salad, loaded with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives for a bright contrast.
• Grilled Vegetables: Enhance the meal by grilling seasonal vegetables alongside the kabobs for a colorful plate.
• Rice or Couscous: A fluffy side of rice or couscous is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the kabobs.
• Dipping Sauces: Consider offering a few dipping sauces such as tzatziki or a spicy sriracha mayo for added flavor options.
• Picnic or BBQ: These kabobs are perfect for outdoor barbecues or picnics. Just skewer and grill at your desired location!
• Meal Prep: Make kabobs ahead of time for easy meal prep. Grill them in batches and store them for quick lunches.
• Seasonal Pairings: These kabobs are particularly great for summer gatherings, but can be enjoyed year-round with seasonal vegetables.

FAQ

Conclusion

These Grilled Chicken Kabobs are not just a meal; they are a celebration of flavors, colors, and togetherness. Perfect for any occasion, they remind us of summer nights filled with laughter and good company. I encourage you to try making them at home; you’ll discover how easy and rewarding it is to create a dish that brings people together. Fire up the grill and enjoy the delicious experience of Grilled Chicken Kabobs!

Grilled Chicken Kabobs

The ultimate summer dish, Grilled Chicken Kabobs are packed with juicy chicken and fresh vegetables. A quick and easy recipe that's perfect for gatherings and weeknight dinners. Fire up the grill and make these mouthwatering kabobs tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 4 hours hrs

Cook Time 16 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 16 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Mixing Bowl
• Peeler

Ingredients

  

• 2 large Chicken breast
• 1 large Red bell pepper
• 1 large Red onion
• 1 medium Zucchini
• 0.5 cup Olive oil
• 3 T Lemon juice
• 0.5 tsp. Black pepper
• 2 tsp. Spike Seasoning
• 1 T Garlic
• 2 tsp. Dried basil
• 1 tsp. Dried oregano
• 0.5 tsp. Dried sage
• 1 tsp. Onion powder

Instructions

 

• Trim chicken breasts, and cut the chicken into same-size cubes about 2 inches square.
• Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, black pepper, Spike Seasoning, pureed garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried sage, and onion powder to make the marinade.
• Put the chicken in a large Ziploc bag and pour in the marinade and seal the bag.
• Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. (If you can marinate it longer, that will only improve the flavor. I like to marinate overnight and cook chicken later the next day.)
• Peel onion and cut into pieces about 2 inches square. Cut ends off red pepper, remove seeds, and cut the pepper into pieces about 2 inches square. If you're using zucchini, cut off ends, cut in half lengthwise, and then cut pieces that are 2 inches wide.
• Put chunks of red pepper, red onion, and zucchini (if using) into a container and store in refrigerator while the chicken marinates.
• About 1-2 hours before you want to cook the kabobs, add the vegetables to the bag with the chicken and continue to marinate in refrigerator.
• When you want to assemble kabobs, drain the chicken and veggies and let ingredients come to room temperature.
• Spray the grill with nonstick spray or brush with a high smoke point oil, and preheat grill to high while you assemble the kabobs.
• To assemble kabobs, first we laid them out on the cutting board evenly divided into four rows so all our kabobs would be the same. (You might actually prefer to vary them if some family members prefer certain ingredients.)
• Thread ingredients onto kabob skewers, pressing tightly together.
• Put kabobs on the grill and turn grill down to medium-high.
• Turn kabobs when you see grill marks, cooking about 3-4 minutes on each side or a total cooking time of about 12-16 minutes. (Cooking the kabobs on all four sides is definitely easier if all your pieces are the same size, otherwise they want stay up on all the sides.
• Kabobs are done when chicken feels firm (not hard) to the touch and veggies are lightly browned.
• Serve hot.

Notes

• Tip 1: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: If you have extra marinated chicken, freeze it in a Ziploc bag for up to three months. Just thaw and grill when ready!
• Tip 3: These kabobs pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Tip 5: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, squash, or cherry tomatoes.

Keyword Chicken Skewers Recipe, Easy Grilled Dinner, Grilled Chicken Kabobs, Healthy Kabob Recipe

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!