Chicken Shish Kebab Recipe: Grilled Perfection Every Time

Craving the taste of summer, even when the weather isn’t cooperating? Look no further! This Chicken Shish Kebab recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken and vibrant vegetables, all perfectly charred and ready to be devoured. Forget bland, boring chicken – this recipe is bursting with Mediterranean-inspired flavors thanks to a simple yet incredibly effective marinade. Whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven’s broiler, these kebabs are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s both delicious and surprisingly easy to make!

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another chicken kebab recipe; it’s a carefully crafted method designed for maximum flavor and tenderness. Here’s why it works so well:

• The Marinade is Key: The marinade is the heart of this recipe. A blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, herbs, and spices not only infuses the chicken with incredible flavor but also helps to tenderize it, resulting in juicy, melt-in-your-mouth pieces.
• Proper Chicken Prep: Cutting the chicken into uniformly sized cubes ensures even cooking. No more dry, overcooked pieces alongside raw ones!
• Vegetable Selection: The vegetables chosen complement the chicken beautifully and add a variety of textures and flavors. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini hold up well to grilling and offer a satisfying bite.
• Grilling (or Broiling) Technique: The recipe provides clear instructions for both grilling and broiling, ensuring success regardless of your preferred cooking method. The key is to achieve a nice char on the outside while keeping the chicken moist and tender on the inside.
• Versatility: This recipe is easily adaptable to your preferences. Feel free to swap out vegetables, adjust the spice levels, or even use different cuts of chicken.

Ingredients

• Chicken: 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
• Olive Oil: 1/4 cup
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Dried Thyme: 1/2 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Red Bell Pepper: 1, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Yellow Bell Pepper: 1, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Red Onion: 1, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Zucchini: 1, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
• Wooden Skewers: (Soaked in water for at least 30 minutes) or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will be.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables by cutting them into 1-inch pieces (or 1/2-inch thick slices for the zucchini).
4. Assemble the Kebabs: Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between the chicken and different vegetables. You can arrange them in any order you like. Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Kebabs (Option 1): Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the kebabs on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
6. Broil the Kebabs (Option 2): Preheat your broiler. Place the kebabs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
7. Rest and Serve: Once the kebabs are cooked, remove them from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful chicken. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as rice, couscous, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Overcrowding the skewers prevents even cooking. Leave a small space between each piece of chicken and vegetable.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling prevents them from burning.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and the heat of your grill or broiler. Keep a close eye on the kebabs and adjust the cooking time as needed.
• Add a Finishing Touch: After grilling, consider drizzling the kebabs with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

Storage Instructions

Leftover chicken shish kebabs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them, bake them in the oven, or grill them briefly. Be careful not to overcook them when reheating, as this can dry out the chicken.

FAQ

• Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you like, such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers of different colors.
• Can I use a different cut of chicken? Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts. They tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during grilling.
• Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the kebabs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them. However, it’s best to add the vegetables just before grilling, as they can become soggy if stored for too long.
• Can I freeze these? Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken shish kebabs. Allow them to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• What sides go well with chicken shish kebabs? Chicken shish kebabs pair well with a variety of sides, such as rice, couscous, quinoa, roasted vegetables, salads, or pita bread with hummus.

Conclusion

This Chicken Shish Kebab recipe is a guaranteed winner for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal, these kebabs are sure to satisfy. So, fire up the grill (or preheat your broiler) and get ready to enjoy a taste of Mediterranean sunshine!