These easy oven-baked chicken kabobs are a fun and tasty meal! Juicy chicken pieces are mixed with colorful veggies, all drizzled with a yummy sauce and baked to perfection.
I love making these when I want something quick and delicious. Just pop them in the oven, and in no time, you’ve got a tasty dish that is sure to impress everyone at dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for juicy results. If you want a lower-fat option, you can swap them for turkey breast. It’s still delicious!
Bell Peppers: Feel free to mix colors! Yellow or orange bell peppers can add sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try mushrooms or cherry tomatoes instead.
Zucchini: Zucchini adds a nice texture, but you can replace it with other veggies like asparagus or yellow squash if you like. Just keep the cut size similar for even cooking.
Marinade Ingredients: For a gluten-free version, use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also use balsamic vinegar for a different flavor twist instead of lemon juice.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking kabobs evenly can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you get juicy chicken and tender vegetables every time:
- Cut the chicken and veggies into uniform pieces to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes; longer if you have time. This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor.
- Turn the kebabs halfway through the baking time, so that everything cooks evenly.
- Check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 25 minutes to cook. You’ll spend some time marinating the chicken, which can be done while you prep your vegetables, making it quick and efficient. Enjoy your kabobs in roughly 40 minutes total!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze later!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This will be your tasty marinade!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and toss them gently to ensure they’re well coated. Let the chicken soak up all that flavor for at least 15 minutes. If you have a bit more time, marinate it for up to 1 hour for extra taste.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once marinated, it’s time to build our kabobs! Thread the chicken cubes alternately with the bell peppers, onion wedges, and zucchini slices onto the skewers. Get creative with your arrangement!
5. Bake Your Kabobs:
Place the assembled kabobs on your prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes. Don’t forget to turn the kabobs halfway through cooking to ensure even browning!
6. Optional Broiling:
If you like your kabobs a little charred, switch on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Just keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep the juices in. Serve your delicious kabobs with rice, salad, or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your meal!
FAQ
Can I Use Other Proteins Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—shrimp will cook faster, while beef may need a longer cooking time depending on the cut.
What Should I Do if I Don’t Have Skewers?
No worries! If you don’t have skewers, you can roast the chicken and vegetables on a baking sheet without skewering them. Spread everything out and toss with the marinade, then simply bake as directed for delicious results!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use the microwave if you’re short on time.
Can I Prepare the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance! Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. When you’re ready to use it, simply toss in the chicken and let it marinate before assembling your kabobs.
