These Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs are full of flavor and super fun to eat! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a tasty garlic balsamic mix and grilled to perfection.
Grilling these kabobs turns dinner into a fun outdoor party! I love serving them with veggies on the side—who doesn’t enjoy a little colorful plate, right? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is my go-to. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use turkey breast. For a vegetarian twist, try tofu or tempeh, just be sure to marinate longer to soak up the flavors!
Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These add vibrant color and flavor. You can substitute with bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes if they’re more to your liking or if you want something different!
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives a tangy sweetness. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar can work in a pinch, but add a little honey or sugar to mimic the sweetness of balsamic. Apple cider vinegar is another great alternative!
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. If you’re in a rush, garlic powder can work too, but use less than fresh since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Kabobs Don’t Stick to the Grill?
Grilling kabobs can be tricky if they stick to the grill. Here are some easy tricks:
- Preheat your grill for a few minutes. A hot grill helps create sear marks that prevent sticking.
- Brush grill grates with oil before grilling. You can use a paper towel or a grill brush for this. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
- Turn kabobs gently every few minutes. This allows even cooking while minimizing the chances of pulling off pieces when you flip.
With these tips, you’ll serve up kabobs that look great and taste even better! Enjoy the grilling! 🌟
Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 1 medium white onion, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and an additional 10-12 minutes to grill. If you have time, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or 1-2 hours for more flavor) is best, making the total time anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours depending on your marinating preference.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried basil, salt, and pepper. This mixture will help infuse your chicken with delicious flavor!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breasts to the marinade. Toss well to ensure every piece of chicken is coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for 1-2 hours allows those tasty flavors to soak in even more!
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat so it’s hot and ready when you’re finished preparing your kabobs.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
After marinating, take the chicken out and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Alternate with zucchini rounds, yellow squash rounds, and onion chunks for a colorful presentation.
5. Prepare the Grill:
Lightly oil the grill grates or brush the kabobs with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. It’s a simple trick that makes grilling much easier!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the kabobs on the heated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes. You want the chicken to be cooked through and have lovely grill marks, while the veggies should be crisp-tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and color.
8. Enjoy!
These grilled chicken kabobs pair perfectly with a simple green salad, fluffy rice, or some crusty bread. Enjoy your flavorful, juicy garlic balsamic chicken kabobs! 😋
FAQ for Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in any of your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even asparagus can be great choices. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size for even cooking!
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. You can check this with a meat thermometer. Additionally, the chicken will be firm to the touch and no longer pink in the center when it’s done.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is great! This will allow the flavors to penetrate even deeper, making for a more flavorful kabob. Just be careful not to marinate for too long, as acidic ingredients like balsamic vinegar can make the chicken a bit mushy if left too long.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Kabobs?
To store leftovers, place the kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
