These Chicken Kabobs with Ginger Lemon Marinade are a tasty and fresh twist on a classic dish. The zesty lemon and warm ginger make every bite burst with flavor!
Grilling these kabobs is super easy, and they make the perfect meal for summer gatherings. I love serving them with a side of rice or salad. They’re fun, colorful, and so yummy! 🍋🍗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: I love using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their tender texture and juicy flavor. If you prefer, chicken breasts can work too, but they tend to dry out quicker.
Fresh Ginger: Grated fresh ginger gives a lovely zing! In a pinch, you could use ground ginger, but the fresh stuff really shines here.
Lemons: Using both zest and juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have lemons, try limes for a similar tangy flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist. Avocado oil or canola oil can be good substitutes if you’re out of olive oil.
Honey: This adds a touch of sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar can replace honey if needed.
How Do You Get Juicy Kabobs Without Drying Out the Chicken?
To keep your kabobs juicy, marinating the chicken is key! The marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge, but if you can, extend it to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
- Combine marinade ingredients well before adding chicken.
- Ensure all chicken pieces are coated for maximum flavor.
- Don’t skip the resting time after grilling; it helps retain juices.
Also, be mindful of grilling time. Overcooking is a quick way to dry out chicken, so keep an eye on those kabobs!
How to Make Chicken Kabobs With Ginger Lemon Marinade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
- Zest and juice of 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare the marinade and chicken, plus at least 30 minutes of marinating time. Cooking on the grill will take 10-12 minutes. So, you can expect to spend about 50 minutes total to enjoy these delicious kabobs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, start by combining the grated fresh ginger, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Then, add in the olive oil, minced garlic, honey, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together really well to create a flavorful marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add in the pieces of chicken and make sure they are completely coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you want the flavors to really soak in, try to let it marinate for up to 2 hours!
3. Grill the Kabobs:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating them with the green bell pepper pieces and red onion wedges for added color and flavor.
4. Cooking on the Grill:
Before placing the skewers on the grill, lightly oil the grill grates to keep things from sticking. Grill the kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice, slightly charred look.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, take the kabobs off the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Dig in and enjoy your delicious Chicken Kabobs With Ginger Lemon Marinade!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts are a great substitute, but they tend to cook a bit faster than thighs. Be sure to keep an eye on them while grilling to avoid overcooking. Enjoy the same marinating time for the best flavor!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating overnight is a fantastic way to enhance the flavors! Just make sure to keep the chicken covered in the refrigerator. If it feels like it might be too strong due to acidity from the lemon juice, you can cut down on the marinade time to around 4 hours instead.
How Can I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Leftover chicken kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best to do so in the oven or on the grill to maintain the texture. You can wrap them in foil to keep them moist while reheating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Kabobs?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking. Enjoy customizing your kabobs with your favorite veggies!
