Chicken Kabobs
Tender, juicy chunks of marinated chicken grilled to perfection with colorful, crisp vegetables. A perfect, easy-to-make dish for any summer barbecue or weeknight dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- c.Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl and toss thoroughly to ensure every piece is evenly coated.
- d.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 4 hours. The acidity in the lemon juice can alter the chicken's texture if marinated for too long.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Vegetables and Skewers
- b.While the chicken marinates, wash and chop the bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into uniform, 1-inch pieces.
- c.If using wooden skewers, submerge them completely in a shallow dish of water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Kabobs
- b.Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken and chopped vegetables onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for a colorful presentation.
- c.Leave a small gap (about 1/4 inch) between each piece to allow for even heat circulation and cooking.
- d.Continue until all ingredients are used. You should have approximately 8 kabobs.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Kabobs
- b.Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat, around 400-450°F (200-230°C). Clean the grill grates and lightly oil them with a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- c.Place the assembled kabobs on the hot grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- d.Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning the kabobs every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, and the vegetables are tender with a slight char.
- e.Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and transfer them to a clean platter.
- c.Let the kabobs rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices in the chicken to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
- d.Serve warm with your favorite sides like rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or warm pita bread.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For juicier kabobs, consider using boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They have a higher fat content and are more forgiving on the grill.
- 2Ensure all your chicken and vegetable pieces are cut to a similar size for consistent cooking.
- 3Don't overcrowd the skewers. A little space between items helps them cook more evenly from all sides.
- 4Reserve a few tablespoons of the marinade *before* adding the raw chicken. You can use this to brush over the kabobs during the last few minutes of grilling for an extra flavor boost.
- 5These kabobs are perfect for meal prep. Assemble them up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to grill.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Version
Add 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This marinade works wonderfully with shrimp, firm tofu, or chunks of sirloin steak. Adjust grilling times accordingly.
Herbaceous MarinadeHerbaceous Marinade
Incorporate 2 tablespoons of fresh, chopped herbs like parsley, cilantro, or mint into the marinade for a brighter, fresher flavor.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Add 1/4 cup of plain yogurt to the marinade for extra tenderness and a tangy flavor. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Powerhouse
Chicken breast is an excellent source of high-quality lean protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscle tissue, supporting immune function, and maintaining a healthy metabolism.
Rich in Vitamins & Minerals
The colorful array of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini provides a significant dose of essential nutrients, including Vitamin C for immunity, Vitamin A for vision, and potassium for heart health.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Made with olive oil, this recipe provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Supports Healthy Weight Management
This dish is high in protein and fiber, a combination that promotes satiety and helps you feel full longer, making it a great choice for weight management.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of two kabobs contains approximately 465 calories, making it a balanced and satisfying main course.