Chicken Shish Kabob is a fun and tasty dish made with juicy chicken pieces marinated in flavorful spices. They’re grilled to perfection on skewers for that smoky taste!
Who doesn’t love food on a stick? I always find myself sneaking an extra piece off the grill! 😂 Serve it with some rice or veggies for a great meal that everyone will enjoy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for shish kabobs. If you’re looking for something different, chicken thighs add a juicier flavor. Also, turkey or firm tofu can be great substitutes for a different protein option.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my favorite for its rich flavor. If you need a lighter option, avocado oil works well and has a high smoke point, making it great for grilling.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is ideal for brightness in the marinade, but bottled juice can work in a pinch. Lime juice can also be a zesty substitute if you want a different citrus twist.
Spices: The combination of cumin, paprika, coriander, and oregano creates a balanced flavor. Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat, or swap in your favorite spice blend if you have one!
Skewers: While wooden skewers are classic, metal ones are reusable and great for the environment. If using wooden skewers, soaking them in water prevents burning while grilling.
How Do You Properly Marinate Chicken for Shish Kabobs?
Marinading is key for juicy and flavorful chicken. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, spices, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Cut chicken into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking. Add them to the bowl and mix well.
- Cover and refrigerate. The longer you let it marinate, the better! Aim for at least 1 hour, but overnight is ideal.
- Make sure each piece is well-coated in the marinade to ensure flavorful chicken.
Taking the time to marinate not only enhances the taste but also helps keep the chicken moist during grilling.
How to Make Chicken Shish Kabob?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Chicken Shish Kabob recipe takes about 1 hour of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking. If you can let the chicken marinate overnight, that’ll deepen the flavors even more. Overall, set aside 1 to 2 hours to enjoy this meal fully!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you have metal skewers, you can skip this step!
2. Make the Marinade:
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, ground coriander, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will create a delicious marinade to flavor your chicken.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss everything around until the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. If you have time, letting it marinate overnight will make it even tastier!
4. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure a nice char on your kabobs.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly.
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Turn them occasionally so they get a lovely char all around. Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) so it’s cooked through.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Chicken Shish Kabobs garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice, you can also use chicken thighs for a juicier option. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized cubes for even cooking. If using bone-in pieces, adjust your cooking time accordingly as they take longer to cook through.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil in the Marinade?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, feel free to use another oil, such as avocado oil or canola oil. Each will impart a slightly different flavor but will still work well to help the spices adhere to the chicken.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Shish Kabobs?
To store leftovers, let the kabobs cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them in the microwave for a couple of minutes or use a grill or skillet over medium heat to restore their char.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can definitely make the marinade in advance! Prep it and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before using. You can also marinate the chicken up to a day ahead, just ensure it’s stored properly to maximize flavor and freshness!
