These mouthwatering chicken kabobs will take your taste buds to a world of savory bliss. This recipe creates a mosaic of flavors and textures on each skewer by combining succulent morsels of delicate chicken with a kaleidoscope of colorful veggies. With their aromatic appeal and juicy taste, these kabobs are sure to liven up any gathering, be it a laid-back weeknight supper or a boisterous backyard BBQ.
The marinade and spices work in perfect harmony to give the chicken a flavorful, soft texture. This is the key to these delicious kabobs. Everyone will be begging for seconds as they savor the symphony of flavor and texture created by the marinated chicken and the charred edges of perfectly cooked veggies with every bite. These kabobs are a gastronomic adventure just waiting to be enjoyed. They are simple to put together and brimming with freshness.
What does ‘Kabob’ mean?
Kabobs are small pieces of meat or seafood seasoned or marinated and broiled, often with tomatoes, green peppers, onions, or other vegetables, usually on a skewer. It is a dish that originated in the Middle East or Eastern Mediterranean and has spread around the world. It is a part of Iranian, Afghan, Middle Eastern, Eastern Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisine.
Best Chicken Kabobs in Oven Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board
- Mixing Bowl
- Measuring Spoons and Cups
- Skewers
- Oven
- Tongs
- Baking Sheet and Tray
- Shallow Dish optional
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of chicken breasts chopped into cubes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh herbs for garnish; optional
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the cubed chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Ensure the chicken pieces are well coated. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to an hour. For more intense flavor, marinate for up to 4 hours, if time allows.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for approximately 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked and the edges are slightly charred.
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs before serving for an extra pop of flavor.
Notes
- Uniform Cuts: Ensure even-sized cuts for chicken and veggies for consistent cooking.
- Marination Time: Marinate chicken for at least 30 mins for flavor infusion.
- Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them beforehand to prevent burning.
- Heat Control: Moderate heat for grilling prevents burning and ensures even cooking. In the oven, monitor closely to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition
NUTRITIONAL FACTS (PER SERVING)
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | ~300 |
Protein | ~30g |
Total Fat | ~14g |
Saturated Fat | ~2.5g |
Carbohydrates | ~12g |
Fiber | ~1.5g |
Sugars | ~9g |
Cholesterol | ~80mg |
Sodium | ~600mg |
Variations and Substitutions
Here are the top variations and substitutions for chicken kabobs:
- Protein Options: Experiment with beef, shrimp, lamb, or tofu as alternatives to chicken for diverse flavors and textures.
- Veggie-Forward Kabobs: Create vegetarian kabobs using a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes for a colorful and nutritious option.
- Global Flavors: Infuse different cultural tastes by trying marinades inspired by cuisines such as Thai (peanut sauce and lime), Indian (tandoori spices), or Mexican (cumin and chili powder) for an international twist.
- Fruit Additions: Enhance sweetness and complexity by incorporating grilled fruits like pineapple, peaches, or mango chunks between the chicken for a delightful sweet-savory contrast.
- Customized Herbs and Glazes: Elevate the taste profile by incorporating fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or cilantro into the marinade or adding glazes like honey mustard or balsamic reduction for depth and sweetness.
These variations allow for a broad spectrum of flavors, accommodating different dietary preferences and adding exciting twists to the classic chicken kabob recipe.
I tried your chicken kabobs recipe, and it turned out amazing! The marinade was so flavorful. My family loved it. Thanks for sharing this great recipe!
I noticed that the recipe suggests marinating the chicken for at least two hours. Is there a maximum time for marination, or could it go overnight?
This recipe reminded me of the kabobs my aunt used to make for our family gatherings. She always added her secret spice mix. Thanks for bringing back those memories!
I made these chicken kabobs and my husband thought I had ordered from a fancy restaurant. He’s still waiting for the delivery guy to show up! Great recipe!
This chicken kabobs recipe looks delicious! I’m planning to make it this weekend. What sides do you usually serve with it?