Chicken Kabob Marinade

Why Make This Recipe

Chicken kabobs are a delightful and versatile dish that can be enjoyed at any time, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a festive gathering. This chicken kabob marinade enhances the flavor of the chicken, making it juicy and tender while adding a zesty lemony kick. The simplicity of the ingredients ensures that anyone can whip this up, making it a go-to recipe for any cooking level.

Not only does this marinade bring out the best in chicken, but it also pairs well with a variety of sides, making it a favorite for any meal plan. The ingredients are easy to find, and with just a little preparation time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to grill. It’s also a great option for meal prep, allowing you to marinate the chicken in advance and have it ready to cook when you need it.

How to Make Chicken Kabob Marinade

Making your chicken kabob marinade is a simple process that takes just a few minutes. With only a handful of ingredients, you can create a flavorful marinade that will take your chicken kabobs to the next level.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large lemon (juiced & zested)
• 2 cloves garlic (grated)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 lbs chicken breasts (cubed)

Directions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, grated garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper until well combined. This mixture is the key flavor booster for your chicken kabobs.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Take the cubed chicken and place it in a large resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though for the best flavor, let it marinate for 2-4 hours.

3. Skewer the Chicken: If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand to prevent them from burning on the grill. After marinating, remove the chicken from the bag or bowl and thread the pieces onto the skewers. Leave some space between each piece to ensure even cooking.

4. Grill the Kabobs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This ensures you have perfectly cooked chicken with a nice char on the outside.

How to Serve Chicken Kabob Marinade

Once your chicken kabobs are perfectly grilled, it’s time to serve them! Here are a few serving suggestions:

• With Rice or Grains: Serve the kabobs over a bed of rice, quinoa, or couscous. This will soak up the juices and make for a hearty meal.

• With Salad: Pair your kabobs with a fresh salad made of greens, tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing meal.

• Vegetable Sides: Grilled or roasted vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and corn, complement the kabobs beautifully and add extra nutrients to your meal.

• Dipping Sauces: Offer a variety of dipping sauces, such as tzatziki, hummus, or a spicy yogurt sauce, to enhance the flavors of the kabobs further.

How to Store Chicken Kabob Marinade

If you have leftover marinated chicken or kabobs, here’s how to store them properly:

1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover cooked chicken kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge. They will typically last for up to 3-4 days.

2. Freezing: If you’re looking to store your marinated chicken for a longer time, you can freeze it before cooking. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag, remove as much air as possible and seal it. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, simply thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

3. Reheating: To reheat the cooked kabobs, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the grill for a few minutes on each side.

Tips to Make Chicken Kabob Marinade

To get the most out of your chicken kabobs, consider these helpful tips:

• Marinate Overnight: For the best flavor, marinate your chicken overnight. This allows more time for the flavors to penetrate the meat.

• Cut Uniform Pieces: When cubing the chicken, try to keep the pieces uniform in size to ensure even cooking on the grill.

• Test for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooked meat.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add or swap out spices based on your preferences. For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or swap the dried oregano for cumin or paprika.

• Add Vegetables to Skewers: You can include vegetables on the skewers as well. Bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes work well, and they will soak up some flavorful marinade too.

Variation

While the marinade is delicious as is, there are plenty of variations you could try. Here are some ideas:

• Spicy Marinade: For a spicy kick, add minced jalapeños or a teaspoon of chili powder to your marinade for heat.

• Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of dried oregano for a different flavor profile.

• Fiber Boost: Add some cubed pineapple or peaches to the skewers for a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken.

• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce if you wish to add a touch of umami.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs are a great choice for kabobs as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may need a bit longer.

2. How long should I marinate the chicken?

For the best flavor, refrigerate the chicken in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, but longer is better. If you can, aim for 2-4 hours or even overnight.

3. Can I use the marinade on other meats?

Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with pork, shrimp, or even vegetables. Just adjust the marinating time as needed based on the type of meat or vegetables you are using.

4. Can I bake these kabobs instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the kabobs in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. Just make sure to turn them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.

5. What should I do if I don’t have skewers?

If you don’t have skewers, you can cook the marinated chicken in a grill basket or directly on the grill. Just ensure the heat is not too high to avoid flare-ups.

6. Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

Yes, you can make the marinade a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to mix it well again before adding your chicken.

With this chicken kabob marinade recipe, you’ll be well on your way to making tasty, juicy kabobs that are sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy the process, experiment with flavors, and most importantly, have fun grilling!

Print