These oven-baked chicken kabobs are juicy, flavorful, and super easy to make! All you need are chicken pieces, veggies, and your favorite spices skewered together and baked to perfection.
They’re fun to eat, and you can customize them however you like. I love serving mine with a side of rice or a refreshing salad. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. If you’re looking for a change, you could use thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Tofu or mushrooms can work for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for marinating and adds a lovely richness. In a pinch, you can swap it for vegetable oil or avocado oil. Just remember, a different oil will slightly change the dish’s flavor.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives a bright taste. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled juice works too, but fresh is always best. You can substitute lime juice for a different twist!
Spices: Dried oregano and paprika are key here. If you want to switch things up, try dried thyme or cumin for a new flavor profile. Fresh herbs can be used, but you’ll need to adjust the amounts.
How Do You Ensure Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Tender?
Marinating the chicken is essential for juicy kabobs. The marinade creates flavor and tenderizes the meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes to a few hours. Keep the chicken pieces evenly sized for consistent cooking!
- Mix the marinade well and make sure it fully coats the chicken.
- When threading the chicken onto skewers, leave a little space between pieces to ensure they cook evenly and get that nice golden exterior.
- Turn the kabobs halfway through baking to promote even cooking.
Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden skewers)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate, plus an additional 20-25 minutes for baking. So, in total, set aside about 1 hour to enjoy delicious chicken kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature will help cook the chicken evenly and give it a nice golden color. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil to make cleanup easier later.
2. Make the Marinade:
Now, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until it’s well mixed and looks nice and tasty!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken breast to your marinade. Toss the chicken pieces around in the bowl to make sure they are evenly coated with the marinade. Once coated, cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have more time, letting it marinate for up to 2 hours will give it even better flavor!
4. Prepare the Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to thread them onto the skewers. Take your skewers and carefully slide the marinated chicken cubes onto them, leaving a little bit of space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly!
5. Bake the Kabobs:
Now, place the skewers on your lined baking sheet. Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the kabobs for about 20-25 minutes. Be sure to turn them halfway through so they get wonderfully golden brown on all sides and are cooked through!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once the chicken kabobs are ready, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Before serving, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve your warm chicken kabobs with your favorite sides, like fluffy rice, a fresh salad, or soft pita bread. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will yield a juicier and more flavorful kabob. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. The marinating time can remain the same!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to permeate more deeply. Just remember to keep it covered and refrigerated. If you’re in a hurry, marinating for even 30 minutes will still add flavor!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have skewers, you can simply place the marinated chicken pieces directly on the lined baking sheet. Just make sure they’re spaced out so they cook evenly. You may also use a grill pan or bake them in individual portions!
How Can I Store Leftover Chicken Kabobs?
To store leftovers, let the kabobs cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
