These Chicken Skewers are a fun and tasty treat! Marinated in a yummy mix of spices, they’re juicy and bursting with flavor. Perfect for grilling or baking!
What’s better than juicy chicken on a stick? I love making these for BBQs or quick dinners. The best part? You can switch up the spices for a new twist every time! 🍗✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe uses boneless, skinless chicken breast for its mild flavor and lean protein. If you’re looking for a juicier option, chicken thighs can be a great alternative. They won’t dry out as easily when grilled.
Zucchini: I like using zucchini for its mild flavor and quick cooking time. If zucchini isn’t available, try yellow squash or even mushrooms—both will give a nice texture to your skewers.
Bell Pepper: You can choose any color for bell peppers based on your preference. Red is sweeter, while green has a more robust flavor. If you need a lower-carb option, substitute with chunks of eggplant or asparagus pieces.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, but you may miss the smoky flavor. A touch of cayenne can add heat if you’re into spicy!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for this recipe, but if you’re short on time, garlic powder is a quick substitute. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of fresh garlic.
How Do You Get the Chicken to Be Juicy and Flavorful?
The marinade is crucial in making your chicken juicy and packed with flavor. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best. This allows the chicken to absorb all the tasty spices and moisture. Here’s how to ensure maximum flavor:
- Whisk your marinade well so all ingredients combine thoroughly.
- Make sure the chicken pieces are fully coated in the marinade. Use your hands to mix if needed.
- Refrigerate the marinated chicken in an airtight bag or bowl, shaking or flipping occasionally to redistribute the marinade.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Chicken Kabob Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), cut into chunks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into quarters
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
For the Marinade:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and 30 minutes to 2 hours for marinating the chicken. After that, grilling will take around 12-15 minutes. So, in total, you might spend anywhere from 1 hour to 2 hours and 15 minutes, depending on how long you choose to marinate!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well-blended to create a tasty marinade that will soak into the chicken.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Take the cubed chicken breast and place it into a resealable plastic bag or a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s nicely coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours (or even overnight for more flavor!).
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the chicken is soaking up all that delicious marinade, slice your zucchini, chop your bell pepper, and cut your red onion into quarters. Try to keep the pieces a similar size so they’ll cook evenly on the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Take the chicken and vegetables and start threading them onto the skewers, alternating between pieces of chicken and vegetables. This not only looks nice but lets all those flavors blend while cooking!
5. Grill the Skewers:
Once your grill is hot, carefully place the skewers on it. Grill for 12 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (the juices should run clear) and the vegetables are tender with a lovely char.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. If you like, garnish with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve them hot with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. Dig in and enjoy your delicious chicken skewers!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Skewers?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking!
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them briefly or place them on a hot grill for a few minutes to warm through and regain some char.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The marinade can be made up to 2 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, simply add your chicken and let it marinate!
What’s the Best Way to Soak Wooden Skewers?
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill and keeps your food safely secured while cooking!
