Chicken Kebabs
Tender chunks of marinated chicken grilled with colorful, crisp vegetables. These juicy skewers are a backyard barbecue essential, perfect for an easy and delicious summer meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Marinade and Chicken
- b.In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.
- c.Pat the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel and cut them into uniform 1.5-inch cubes.
- d.Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, tossing well to ensure every piece is thoroughly coated.
- e.Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. Do not marinate for more than 4 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken's texture.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare Skewers and Vegetables
- b.If using wooden or bamboo skewers, submerge them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- c.While the chicken marinates, wash and chop the bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini into pieces roughly the same size as the chicken cubes to ensure even cooking.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Kebabs
- b.Remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Thread the marinated chicken and chopped vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between items.
- c.Leave a small gap (about 1/4 inch) between each piece to allow heat to circulate and cook everything evenly.
- d.Continue until all ingredients are used. This should yield about 8 kebabs.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Grill the Kebabs
- b.Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400-450°F (200-230°C).
- c.Clean the grill grates with a brush and lightly oil them with a paper towel dipped in a high-smoke-point oil to prevent sticking.
- d.Place the kebabs on the hot grill, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- e.Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning the skewers every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks, and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- f.Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) at its thickest part.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Once cooked, transfer the kebabs to a clean platter or cutting board.
- c.Let them rest for 5 minutes. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, ensuring it is moist and flavorful.
- d.Serve warm with your favorite sides like rice pilaf, a fresh salad, or pita bread.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra juicy chicken, use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They have a higher fat content and are more forgiving on the grill.
- 2Ensure all your chicken and vegetable pieces are cut to a similar size for consistent cooking.
- 3If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from charring and breaking.
- 4Don't press the kebabs down on the grill. Let the heat do the work to get those perfect grill marks.
- 5Reserve a small amount of the marinade (before adding the raw chicken) to brush over the kebabs during the last few minutes of grilling for an extra flavor boost.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
This marinade works wonderfully with other proteins. Try it with cubes of sirloin steak, pork tenderloin, large shrimp, or firm tofu.
Vegetable AdditionsVegetable Additions
Feel free to add other grill-friendly vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or chunks of pineapple for a sweet and savory twist.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
For a bit of heat, add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
Herbaceous FlavorHerbaceous Flavor
Add 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro to the marinade for a brighter, fresher taste.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein
Chicken breast is a high-quality lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and keeping you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Vitamins and Fiber
The colorful array of bell peppers, onions, and zucchini provides a wealth of essential vitamins like Vitamin C and A, as well as dietary fiber, which aids digestion and overall gut health.
Contains Heart-Healthy Fats
The use of olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Frequently asked questions
Each serving of two kebabs contains approximately 450 calories, making it a balanced and satisfying main course.