Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken Kabobs are quick and easy to prepare yet full of flavor. The marinade adds a tangy, herby depth to the chicken, while the grilling process caramelizes the vegetables, giving them a smoky sweetness. The mix of textures—from the juicy chicken to the tender yet slightly crisp vegetables—makes each bite a treat. Plus, they’re customizable, allowing you to swap in your favorite veggies or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Perfect for a summer barbecue, weeknight dinner, or even meal prep!

Ingredients

Chicken & Vegetables:

6 long bamboo skewers (or metal skewers)
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
2 large bell peppers, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
2 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
1 large red onion, cut into 1.5-inch pieces

Marinade:

1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Marinade:
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, fresh dill, fresh parsley, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Taste the marinade and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or lemon juice according to your preference.
Marinate the Chicken:
- Place the chicken pieces in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the chicken to soak up the flavors.
Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Cut the bell peppers, zucchini, and onion into uniform 1.5-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- If using bamboo skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
Assemble the Kabobs:
- Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between the chicken and the vegetables. Aim for a balanced mix of chicken and vegetables on each skewer.
Grill the Kabobs:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), and the vegetables are tender with slight grill marks.
Serve:
- Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Optionally, drizzle with the remaining marinade for extra flavor.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe makes approximately 4 servings (6 skewers).
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 30 minutes for marinating)
Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes (including marinating time)

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the chicken and use a variety of your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, eggplant, or squash.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to the marinade for an extra level of heat.
Different Proteins: You can substitute chicken with other proteins, like shrimp or even tofu, depending on your dietary preferences.
Other Marinades: Experiment with different flavor profiles, like using balsamic vinegar and honey for a sweet and tangy marinade or soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover chicken kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or reheat on the grill or in a skillet for a few minutes to maintain that grilled flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken for this recipe, as frozen chicken can release excess water when cooking, which may affect the texture. If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it thoroughly first.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but you can leave it for up to 4 hours if you prefer a stronger flavor.

3. Can I bake these kabobs instead of grilling them?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

4. Can I use a different kind of oil for the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute olive oil with other oils, such as avocado oil, vegetable oil, or even coconut oil, though the flavor may change slightly.

5. Can I prepare the kabobs in advance?

Yes, you can assemble the kabobs a few hours in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

6. How do I know when the chicken is done?

The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) on a meat thermometer. The juices should run clear, and the chicken should no longer be pink in the center.

7. Can I use a grill pan indoors?

Yes, if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop. Just make sure it’s preheated to medium-high heat before adding the kabobs.

8. What other vegetables can I use?

You can add or substitute with vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, eggplant, or even pineapple chunks for a sweet touch.

9. Are bamboo skewers reusable?

Bamboo skewers are generally disposable, but you can reuse them if they are in good condition. Be sure to soak them in water before using them to prevent them from burning.

10. Can I serve these kabobs with a side dish?

Yes! Kabobs pair well with rice, couscous, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a yogurt-based sauce, tzatziki, or hummus for extra flavor.

Conclusion

These Chicken Kabobs are a tasty and versatile meal that will impress guests at your next cookout or serve as a simple, healthy weeknight dinner. The combination of marinated chicken and charred vegetables on skewers offers a satisfying mix of flavors and textures. With the option to customize the vegetables and marinade, these kabobs are sure to become a go-to recipe in your grilling repertoire!

Chicken Kabobs