These easy baked chicken kabobs are perfect for busy weeknights! Juicy chicken pieces are combined with colorful veggies and your favorite spices for a tasty meal in no time.
What’s great is how quick they are to make! Just skewer everything, pop them in the oven, and you’ve got a delicious dinner. I love serving them with rice or a simple salad! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work just fine. For a healthier twist, consider turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option.
Veggies: The bell peppers bring sweetness, while zucchini adds texture. Feel free to swap in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even broccoli if you prefer! Seasonal veggies can enhance flavor and nutrition.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for its taste, but you can substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil you have on hand.
Spices: Don’t worry if you’re missing some spices. Adding Italian seasoning or taco seasoning can work too, giving a different flavor profile!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
The secret to juicy chicken kabobs lies in marinating! A quick marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices adds flavor and helps tenderize the chicken. Here’s how:
- Mix the marinade and let the cubed chicken sit for at least 10 minutes, or longer if you have time. This allows the flavors to seep in.
- When assembling the kabobs, don’t overcrowd the chicken and veggies. This helps them cook evenly.
- During baking, turning the kabobs halfway ensures even cooking and that all sides get nicely browned.
With these tips, your kabobs will be delicious and satisfying, perfect for a weeknight meal!
Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Other:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 mins prior)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 25 minutes to cook. So, in total, plan for about 40 minutes from start to finish, perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Don’t forget to line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until everything is nicely combined.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss thoroughly to coat all the pieces. Let them sit for at least 10 minutes to soak up those yummy flavors. If you have more time, you can marinate them in the fridge for up to 1 hour!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Now it’s time to thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers. Alternate chicken pieces with the bell peppers, onion chunks, and zucchini slices to keep it colorful and delicious!
5. Bake the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re spaced apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
6. Optional Char:
If you like a little char, you can broil the kabobs for 2-3 minutes at the end. Just watch them closely to avoid burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take the kabobs out of the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm with your favorite sides—like rice, a fresh salad, or some pita bread—and enjoy a delightful meal!
These kabobs are flavorful, colorful, and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly—shrimp will cook faster, while tofu may need a slightly longer marination for flavor.
What Should I Do with Leftover Kabobs?
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also chop them up and toss them into salads or wraps for a quick lunch!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. When you’re ready to use it, just add the chicken and let it marinate for at least 10 minutes before assembling your kabobs.
How Can I Make These Kabobs Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the kabobs before serving for an extra kick!
