These easy baked chicken kabobs are perfect for beginners! Simply toss some chicken, colorful veggies, and your favorite seasonings on skewers, and bake until juicy. Yum!
Let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good kabob? I like to serve mine with rice or salad for a tasty meal. Plus, they look fun on the plate—just like a party on a stick! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for kabobs because they cook quickly. If you want a twist, try thighs for more flavor or even use shrimp or tofu for a different option!
Bell Peppers: I love using red and green bell peppers for their color and sweetness, but any color works. Feel free to swap them for mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapples for a fun flair!
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds smoothness to the marinade. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer. Just remember to stick with oil that has a high smoke point.
Seasonings: The garlic, paprika, and oregano deliver big flavors. If you don’t have paprika, try using chili powder, and fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a brighter taste!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Tender?
To keep your kabobs juicy, marinating the chicken is key. Let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 15 minutes, or longer if you can, up to 2 hours. This helps it soak up all those delicious flavors.
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even 1-inch cubes for uniform cooking.
- A sprinkle of salt before cooking also helps moisture retention during baking.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking. This lets the juices redistribute within the chicken.
Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Other:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and another 20-25 minutes for baking. Don’t forget to let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving, so the juices stay inside the chicken and veggies!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when your kabobs are ready to go in!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Stir until everything is well combined!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them until they’re all coated. Let them sit for at least 15 minutes to soak up those yummy flavors.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, onion chunks, and zucchini slices onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients for a nice colorful look!
5. Bake ‘Em:
Place your kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them once halfway through. They’re ready when the chicken is cooked all the way through, and the veggies are tender!
6. Optional Broil for Extra Flavor:
If you like a little char on your kabobs, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking. Just keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the kabobs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep everything juicy! Serve them hot, paired with rice, a fresh salad, or your favorite side dish!
Enjoy your delicious and easy baked chicken kabobs! They’re a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and remain juicy, making them a great alternative. Just keep the cooking time the same, as they generally cook at the same rate.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute or Add?
You can definitely customize the vegetables! Feel free to add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple for a sweetness twist. Just ensure that any added veggies have a similar cooking time to the chicken.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken and let it marinate as usual.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave or heat them on the stove until warmed through.
