These chicken skewers are so tasty and easy to make! Marinated in a yummy kabob sauce, they’re juicy and full of flavor, perfect for grilling or baking.
Whenever I make these, the smell alone gets everyone excited! Serve them with some veggies or rice, and you’ll be the star of the meal. Who can resist a good skewer? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This dish shines with chicken breast since it’s lean and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great substitution! They’re juicier and add richness.
Bell Pepper: Any bell pepper adds sweetness and color. If bell peppers aren’t available, try using cherry tomatoes or even pineapple chunks for a sweet twist!
Zucchini: This veggie complements the dish well. If you’re not a fan of zucchini, you can swap it for mushrooms, asparagus, or even eggplant. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Olive Oil: This is great for marinating and grilling. If you want a lighter option, you can use avocado oil or grapeseed oil since they have high smoke points and are neutral in flavor.
Soy Sauce: Adds a nice umami flavor. If you need a gluten-free option, substitute with tamari or coconut aminos. You can also use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier choice!
How do I Make Sure My Chicken Skewers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken properly is crucial for taste and safety. Here are some simple tips:
- **Marinate Long Enough:** Letting the chicken marinate for at least an hour enhances flavor. Overnight is even better, just don’t exceed 24 hours as it can become mushy.
- **Chicken Size Matters:** Cut chicken into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures uniform cooking and prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are overdone.
- **Use a Meat Thermometer:** To guarantee the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature must reach 165°F.
- **Let Them Rest:** After grilling, let the skewers rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making the chicken super juicy!
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or orange), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of preparation time and requires at least 1 hour for marinating the chicken (you can also marinate it overnight for better flavor). Cooking the skewers on the grill will take about 10-15 minutes, so you’re looking at a total of around 1 hour and 35 minutes, including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. This will create a flavorful marinade for your chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the cubed chicken breast in a zip-top bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. If you want an even more robust flavor, let it marinate overnight!
3. Prep the Vegetables:
While the chicken marinates, wash and cut the vegetables into reasonable sizes for skewering. The bell pepper should be in 1-inch pieces, the zucchini into thick rounds, and the red onion cut into wedges.
4. Skewer the Ingredients:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the refrigerator. Thread the chicken and prepared vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between the chicken and different veggies to make it colorful and appealing.
5. Preheat the Grill:
Turn on your grill or grill pan and preheat it to medium-high heat. This step is important for getting those beautiful grill marks!
6. Cook the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn, and look for those lovely grill marks!
7. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the grill. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving—this helps to keep the chicken juicy. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious chicken skewers with friends and family!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary: shrimp cooks faster, while beef may require longer grilling depending on the cut.
What Can I Use Instead of Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for a gluten-free or low-sodium option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Both provide a similar flavor profile. If you want to avoid soy altogether, you can use a mix of vegetable broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar for added depth.
How Long Do I Marinate the Chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. However, if you can let it sit overnight, you’ll achieve even more deliciously infused flavors. Just don’t marinate for more than 24 hours to avoid the chicken becoming too mushy.
How Should I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or toss them back on the grill for a couple of minutes to retain that grilled flavor.
