If you’re on the hunt for a vibrant, flavorful dish that feels like a celebration on a skewer, the Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe is your new go-to. Juicy chicken breast bites marinated in a zesty garlic and herb blend, paired with colorful fresh veggies, and grilled to perfection—these kabobs promise a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and fresh that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner or impressing friends at your next barbecue, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish bursting with personality and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might seem straightforward, but each one plays a crucial role in layering flavor, texture, and visual appeal in the Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe. From the tender chicken to the fresh herbs and crisp vegetables, the combination makes all the difference.
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: The star protein, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and juicy results.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant red color to brighten the kabobs.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Offers a complementary sweetness and gorgeous golden hue.
- 1 red onion: Contributes slight sharpness and a tender texture when grilled.
- 1 zucchini: Provides a mild, fresh flavor and holds up beautifully on the grill.
- ¼ cup olive oil: Acts as the marinade’s base, helping flavors meld and keeping chicken moist.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic punch and depth to the marinade.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright, citrusy tang that wakes up the palate.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped: Infuses a woodsy, pine-like fragrance.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Offers subtle earthiness and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds Mediterranean flair and savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Delivers a smoky warmth and rich color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Mixing the marinade is where the magic begins. Combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Whisking everything together helps these bold flavors marry gracefully, creating a marinade that will tenderize the chicken and infuse it with incredible taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your chicken pieces in a resealable bag or large bowl, then pour the marinade over them. Make sure every single piece is well coated so that every bite bursts with flavor. Cover and refrigerate for anywhere from 30 minutes up to 4 hours—this resting time lets the garlic and herbs really soak into the meat for juicy, tasty kabobs.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Heating your grill to medium-high, about 375°F (190°C), is key to cooking these kabobs perfectly. You want high heat to get a nice char and caramelization on the outside while keeping the chicken tender inside.
Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs
Thread the marinated chicken, red and yellow bell peppers, red onion wedges, and zucchini rounds onto skewers, alternating pieces to create a colorful pattern. This not only makes the kabobs visually appealing but also balances flavors and textures in every bite.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place the kabobs on the hot grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally. Watch for beautifully charred edges on the vegetables and ensure the chicken is cooked through, juicy, and tender. This step fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas that build anticipation for the first bite.
Step 6: Serve Fresh and Hot
Once off the grill, serve your kabobs immediately to enjoy the perfect mix of smoky, herby chicken and crisp-tender veggies.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will brighten your kabobs even more. Adding a dollop of tzatziki or a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce complements the herbs beautifully and adds an extra layer of cool creaminess.
Side Dishes
These kabobs pair wonderfully with fluffy rice pilaf, a crisp green salad, or warm pita bread. Grilled corn on the cob or a tangy cucumber salad can also elevate the meal, making it fresh, filling, and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the kabobs arranged on a large wooden board for a rustic, impressive look. Accompany them with small bowls of dips, lemon wedges, and grilled flatbreads to encourage sharing and make the meal feel like a festive gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from the Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they can stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or dinners during the week.
Freezing
If you want to freeze, place the cooked kabobs in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, allowing you to enjoy your flavorful chicken without starting from scratch.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the vegetables firm and chicken juicy, ensuring your kabobs are as delightful as when freshly grilled.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe shines with chicken breast, you can substitute with chicken thighs, shrimp, or even firm tofu to suit your preferences.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to seep in, but for the juiciest, most flavorful results, aim for 2 to 4 hours. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours as the acid might start to break down the chicken too much.
Can I prepare these kabobs without a grill?
Yes, you can use a grill pan or broiler to cook the kabobs. Just ensure they get enough heat for that charred, smoky effect and turn them frequently for even cooking.
Are the vegetables interchangeable in this recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus depending on your favorites or what’s in season. Keep similar-sized pieces for even grilling.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Marinate and assemble the night before, grill fresh when ready to eat, and store leftovers for quick meals later in the week.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend enough that you try this Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe the very next time you want a meal that’s both delightful and effortless. It’s a dish that brings joy, color, and irresistible aromas to your table, making everyone eager for seconds. Trust me, once you experience those juicy, herb-kissed bites combined with crisp grilled veggies, it’ll quickly become a beloved staple you’ll return to again and again!
Print
Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
Juicy and flavorful Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs featuring marinated chicken breast and fresh vegetables grilled to perfection. This easy recipe combines aromatic herbs, garlic, and lemon juice for a delicious and colorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
Marinade
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a fragrant herb marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces into a resealable bag or large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 4 hours to allow flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 375°F (190°C), preparing it for kabob cooking.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces alternately with chunks of red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion wedges, and thick zucchini rounds onto skewers to create a vibrant and tasty combination.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are slightly charred and tender.
- Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve immediately. These kabobs pair beautifully with rice, fresh salad, or a creamy dipping sauce for a complete meal.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling helps prevent burning.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight if time permits.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- These kabobs can also be cooked under a broiler or on a grill pan if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
- Adjust the level of paprika according to your heat preference.
