If you love the smoky flavor of grilled meats combined with the freshness of bright herbs, then this Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe is going to be your new go-to favorite. This dish perfectly balances tender, juicy chicken with vibrant veggies all tossed in a zesty herb and garlic marinade that brings incredible aroma and taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or an outdoor gathering, these kabobs are a colorful, mouthwatering way to impress your guests without any fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple but powerful ingredients come together to elevate this Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe. Each item is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and create appealing textures and colors that ensure your kabobs will look just as good as they taste.
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces, this is the protein star that soaks up all the marinade flavors beautifully.
- 1 red bell pepper: Adds sweet crunch and vibrant red color to the kabobs.
- 1 yellow bell pepper: Provides a subtle sweetness and sunny hue that brightens the dish.
- 1 red onion: Offers sharpness and a lovely caramelized touch when grilled.
- 1 zucchini: Sliced thick for a tender, juicy vegetable balance that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 1/4 cup olive oil: The base of the marinade, olive oil ensures everything stays moist and flavorful.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic’s punchy aroma and taste are key to the herbaceous marinade.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness and freshens every bite.
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped: This woody herb brings a piney, fragrant note that’s irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves: Earthy and subtle, thyme complements the garlic and rosemary beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Boosts the Mediterranean profile with its warm, slightly bitter taste.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smokiness and enhances color for visual appeal.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
Whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, zesty lemon juice, freshly chopped rosemary and thyme, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to create an aromatic marinade that will infuse the chicken with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place your bite-sized chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or bowl, then pour the herb and garlic marinade over them. Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated, then seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C), the perfect temperature to get that gorgeous char and juicy finish without drying out the chicken or vegetables.
Step 4: Assemble the Kabobs
Skewer the marinated chicken pieces alternately with colorful chunks of red and yellow bell peppers, wedges of red onion, and thick rounds of zucchini. This not only adds fantastic visual appeal but also ensures every bite is a delicious mix of protein and fresh veggies.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place your assembled kabobs on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through, juicy inside, and the vegetables show lovely grill marks and slight charring to enhance their natural sweetness.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Once off the grill, serve your Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs hot and fresh alongside your favorite sides for a wholesome, satisfying meal that everyone will want seconds of.
How to Serve Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top add a burst of green and a fresh herbal note that complements the marinade. A wedge of lemon on the side brings a bright, zesty finish that guests can squeeze over their kabobs for extra tang.
Side Dishes
Pair your kabobs with fluffy rice, a crisp green salad, or grilled pita bread. Creamy dips like tzatziki or a garlic yogurt sauce make perfect companions, balancing the smoky grilled flavors with cooling creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the kabobs on a rustic wooden platter lined with parchment paper for a casual vibe, or place them over a bed of couscous or quinoa for a colorful plated entrée. For a party, arrange kabobs upright in a large glass or vase to create an impressive vertical display that’s as fun to look at as to eat!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover kabobs can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making for a tasty and convenient lunch or dinner option during the week.
Freezing
If you want to save your kabobs longer, remove the vegetables from the skewers, then freeze the chicken pieces in a sealed bag or container. Vegetables freeze less well but can be grilled fresh alongside the thawed chicken later.
Reheating
To reheat, place the kabobs on a baking sheet and heat in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or reheat gently on the stovetop to keep the chicken moist while reviving the grilled flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other meats besides chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! This marinade works wonderfully with beef, lamb, or even shrimp. Adjust grilling times accordingly based on the protein you choose.
Do I have to use fresh herbs or can I substitute dried?
Fresh herbs give the best flavor and aroma, but if you only have dried, use about one-third of the amount and adjust to taste since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How long should I marinate the chicken for best results?
While 30 minutes is enough to infuse flavor, marinating for 2-4 hours allows the herbs and lemon juice to tenderize and really flavor the chicken deeply.
Can I bake these kabobs instead of grilling?
Yes, place the assembled kabobs on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
Are these kabobs gluten-free?
They are naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid sauces or sides that contain gluten ingredients. This recipe focuses on fresh ingredients and simple seasoning without any wheat-based additions.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe is truly one of those dishes that brings people together around the grill with its irresistible combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and vibrant veggies. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve at your next cookout. Give it a try and watch as it quickly becomes a favorite that everyone asks you to make again and again!
Print
Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Delicious and colorful Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs featuring marinated chicken breast and fresh vegetables grilled to perfection with a flavorful blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 ½ lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 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
Vegetables
- 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
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, finely chopped rosemary, fresh thyme leaves, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to form a well-blended marinade.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the bite-sized chicken pieces into a resealable bag or a large bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 4 hours to allow flavors to infuse.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375°F (190°C), to prepare for cooking the kabobs evenly and to achieve that perfect char.
- Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken pieces alternately with chunks of red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, wedges of red onion, and thick rounds of zucchini onto skewers, creating a vibrant and diverse presentation.
- Grill the Kabobs: Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are nicely charred and tender.
- Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve immediately. They pair wonderfully with sides like steamed rice, fresh salad, or a creamy dipping sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Marinating the chicken longer (up to 4 hours) enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Vegetables can be substituted or added based on preference, such as mushrooms or cherry tomatoes.
- Use metal skewers if preferred for easier grilling and handling.
