These chicken skewers are juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to a delicious kabob marinade. They’re perfect for grilling and easy to enjoy!
Let me tell you, there’s something about juicy chicken on a stick that makes me smile. I love serving them with a side of dipping sauce—so fun to eat! 😋
Making these skewers is a breeze! Just marinate the chicken, thread it onto sticks, and grill. You’ll have a tasty meal ready in no time, perfect for summer nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breast for its lean texture. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try thighs instead; they’re juicier and more flavorful.
Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion add vibrant colors and flavors. You can swap these for mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus based on what you have or prefer.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives a great flavor, but any cooking oil will work. Avocado oil or melted coconut oil are good alternatives, too.
Soy Sauce: If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, coconut aminos or tamari are excellent substitutes.
Spices: Cumin and paprika add depth to your marinade. Feel free to adjust or add other spices like chili powder for some heat, or use a pre-made spice blend for a shortcut.
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing it with flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Combine all marinade ingredients in a large bowl. Whisk until well blended.
- Add chicken cubes and mix to coat them thoroughly. Make sure every piece is covered.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate. One hour is fine, but let it sit overnight for even better results.
- Remember, the longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be, but don’t go beyond 24 hours to avoid a mushy texture.
This simple step can elevate your skewers from good to amazing! Enjoy the juicy, flavorful chicken that results from proper marination.
How to Make Chicken Skewers with Chicken Kabob Marinade?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into squares
- 1 red onion, cut into squares
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time, plus 1 hour for marinating. If you can, letting the chicken marinate overnight will add even more flavor. Cooking the skewers on the grill will take around 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until everything is well mixed. This will be your tasty marinade!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and stir until they’re completely coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 1 hour. For the best flavor, try to marinate it overnight!
3. Prepare the Skewers and Grill:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to stop them from burning on the grill. While the skewers soak, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to make the skewers! Thread the marinated chicken, zucchini slices, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients to make it colorful and fun.
5. Grill the Skewers:
Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook them for about 12-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so all sides get nice grill marks and the chicken cooks through.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve your delicious chicken skewers hot, and if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a nice touch.
Enjoy your tasty Chicken Skewers!
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can easily substitute chicken with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly; shrimp will cook faster, while beef may take a bit longer depending on the cut.
What if I Don’t Have All the Marinade Ingredients?
No worries! You can get creative with substitutions. For instance, if you don’t have soy sauce, try using teriyaki sauce or tamari for a gluten-free option. If you’re missing fresh garlic, garlic powder can work too—use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Skewers?
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. You can also enjoy them cold in a salad or wrap!
Can I Prepare the Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the skewers and marinate them up to 24 hours in advance. Just make sure to keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This will enhance the flavors even more!
