Discover the joy of summer with our Chicken & Shrimp Skewers Recipe. These kabobs are not only visually appealing but also a delightful burst of flavors that will make any barbecue or dinner party unforgettable. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward, easy to follow, and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into the process of making these delicious skewers that will soon become your go-to crowd pleaser!
Ingredients
- Chicken: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Shrimp: 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, red onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini (1-2 of each, cut into chunks)
- Marinade:
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Juice from 3 limes
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning)
⚠️ Note: Make sure to marinate the chicken and shrimp for at least 2 hours for best flavor, but overnight marination yields the most tender results.
Preparation
Marinating
Start by creating the marinade. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk together until well blended.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate.
- Place the shrimp in a separate bowl or resealable bag with a portion of the marinade (to prevent shrimp from over-marinating), and refrigerate.
Vegetable Prep
While the proteins are marinating, cut your vegetables into chunks. You can get creative with your vegetable choices, but bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini are traditional and provide a balance of flavors and colors.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-400°F or 190-204°C).
- Thread the marinated chicken, shrimp, and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for variety.
Cooking
Grilling
- Place the skewers on the grill, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Chicken skewers will take around 10-15 minutes to cook, while shrimp skewers will need about 5-8 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
🔥 Note: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so it's important to keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which makes them rubbery.
Serving
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill. Allow them to rest for a few minutes to let the juices redistribute. Serve hot, perhaps with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or grilled corn on the cob for a complete meal.
These Chicken & Shrimp Skewers offer a fantastic blend of smoky, savory, and slightly sweet flavors, making them an ideal dish for all occasions. The tender chicken, coupled with succulent shrimp and vibrant vegetables, creates a mouthwatering kabob that's both nutritious and indulgent. Remember, the key to great skewers is in the marination and the balance of ingredients, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
How long should I marinate the chicken and shrimp?
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For best results, marinate the chicken and shrimp for at least 2 hours, but for the most tender and flavorful results, marinate them overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I use other vegetables on the skewers?
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Absolutely! You can use whatever vegetables you enjoy. Just keep in mind that different vegetables might cook at different rates, so cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian version of this skewer recipe?
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Yes! You can replace the chicken and shrimp with firm tofu or chunks of your favorite vegetables like eggplant, mushrooms, or cauliflower for a vegetarian kabob delight.
