These chicken skewers are juicy and flavorful, thanks to a tasty marinade! Perfect for grilling, they’re packed with spices that make each bite a treat.
Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of chicken on the grill. These skewers are a family favorite, and they disappear fast—so don’t forget to make extras! 😄
I love serving them with fresh veggies or a simple salad. It’s a quick meal that feels special and is easy to whip up for any gathering. Enjoy grilling! 🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect for skewers because they cook quickly. If you’re looking for leaner options, turkey breast works well too, or you can use chunks of firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps the marinade stick. If you want a different flavor, avocado oil or even sesame oil can be great substitutes.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the marinade. If you don’t have any, lime juice or vinegar (like apple cider) can add a nice tang too.
Spices (Cumin & Paprika): These bring warmth and depth to the dish. If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika adds a nice smoky flavor. Cumin can be replaced with coriander for a different profile.
Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and onion provide great color and crunch. You can swap these for cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just cut them to similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Well-Marinated?
Marinating the chicken is key to infusing flavor and keeping it tender. Ensure you cover the chicken well in the marinade, and the longer you can let it sit (up to 4 hours), the better the taste.
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, spices, and salt in a bowl.
- Add the chicken, toss well, and let it rest in the fridge. Use a plastic bag if that’s easier for coating.
- Remember to preheat your grill to ensure that the chicken sears nicely, helping lock in those juices.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Chicken Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken and Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Vegetables:
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
Other:
- Bamboo or metal skewers (soaked in water if using bamboo)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken (feel free to marinate for up to 4 hours for extra flavor!). The grilling takes about 10-15 minutes, so set aside about 1 hour total to make these delicious skewers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed. This flavorful marinade will help make your chicken moist and tasty.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them well until the chicken is fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, you can let it marinate for up to 4 hours—this allows the flavors to soak in even more!
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Cut the zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion into pieces that will fit well on the skewers. Make sure they are all about the same size so they cook evenly!
4. Preheat Your Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. This ensures your skewers will cook nicely and get those beautiful grill marks.
5. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken is ready, take it out of the fridge. Skewer the marinated chicken and the prepared veggies onto your skewers, alternating between the chicken and colorful veggies. This not only makes it look nice but adds great taste too!
6. Grill to Perfection:
Place your skewers on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally so everything cooks evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice char on the outside.
7. Let Them Rest:
When the skewers are done grilling, take them off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your warm chicken skewers right off the grill! You can garnish them with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs for a juicier option, or even diced chicken tenderloins. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if the pieces vary significantly in size.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute for the Ones Listed?
Feel free to get creative! Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple make great substitutes. Just remember to adjust their cooking time, as some veggies may cook faster than others.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, or pop them in the microwave for a quick option.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It enhances the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to change the texture of the chicken.
