5 Simple Chicken Kabob Recipes for Summer Grilling

When the warm weather of summer rolls around, nothing beats the allure of an outdoor barbecue. And if there's one dish that epitomizes the joy of grilling, it's got to be chicken kabobs. They're easy to make, versatile, and most importantly, delicious. In this blog post, we'll explore five simple chicken kabob recipes that will make your summer grilling memorable.

1. Classic Chicken Kabobs with Vegetables

Let's kick off our list with a classic that never goes out of style. These kabobs are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
• 1 large red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh herbs (like thyme or rosemary)

How to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and let it marinate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Assemble Kabobs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Skewer the marinated chicken alternating with vegetables.
3. Grill: Grill kabobs for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.

Serve these kabobs with a side of rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

2. Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs

For a taste of the Mediterranean, this recipe brings together the flavors of the sea with aromatic herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken thigh pieces, cubed
• 1 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 teaspoons oregano
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare:

1. Marinate: Combine yogurt, olive oil, spices, lemon zest, and juice. Marinate chicken in this mixture for at least 3 hours.
2. Skewer: Thread the chicken onto skewers.
3. Cook: Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning for an even cook.

Serve with pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

💡 Note: For a more authentic taste, add a bit of ground sumac to the marinade.

3. Spicy Curry Chicken Kabobs

If you enjoy a bit of heat, these spicy curry kabobs will definitely satisfy your palate.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breast, cubed
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare:

1. Mix the Marinade: Combine all ingredients except chicken to create a vibrant marinade. Soak chicken for a few hours.
2. Skewer: Thread chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill: Grill for about 10 minutes, ensuring a char on the outside.

Serve with a side of naan bread or over a bed of basmati rice.

4. Balsamic Honey Glazed Chicken Kabobs

These kabobs offer a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making them a delightful treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken thighs, cut into pieces
• 1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare:

1. Marinade Preparation: Whisk together vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, then marinate chicken for at least an hour.
2. Skewer: Thread chicken onto skewers.
3. Grill: Brush kabobs with more marinade while grilling for a glossy finish. Grill for 10-12 minutes.

🌿 Note: This glaze can be used for other proteins like shrimp or pork, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

5. Pineapple and Chicken Kabobs

For a tropical twist, this recipe blends juicy pineapple with tender chicken for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken breast or thigh, cubed
• 2 cups fresh pineapple, cubed
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare:

1. Marinate: Mix soy sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken and pineapple separately for an hour.
2. Skewer: Thread chicken and pineapple alternately onto skewers.
3. Grill: Grill for about 8-10 minutes, ensuring the chicken is cooked through and the pineapple is caramelized.

Serve with a light salad or coconut rice to complement the tropical flavors.

The essence of summer grilling comes to life with these chicken kabob recipes. Each variation offers a unique taste experience, from the straightforward and flavorful classic kabob to the exotic spices of curry or the sweet tanginess of a honey-balsamic glaze. Whether you're hosting a barbecue, looking to liven up your dinner routine, or just enjoying the great outdoors, these recipes provide endless possibilities for delicious meals. The joy of grilling kabobs lies in their simplicity and the communal experience they foster. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of these kabobs set the stage for a delightful summer.

Can I use wooden skewers instead of metal ones?

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Absolutely! Just remember to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

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Marinating time can range from 30 minutes for a quick flavor to overnight for deep infusion. Generally, 1 to 4 hours is optimal for most of these recipes.

What are some good side dishes to serve with kabobs?

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Classic sides include grilled vegetables, salads, rice, naan, or pita bread. For a more festive touch, consider corn on the cob or a fruit salad.