Summer is grilling season, but sometimes the oven is the better option. These baked chicken kabobs deliver all the juicy, flavorful goodness of grilled kabobs without the fuss of charcoal and open flames. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a casual get-together, this recipe is easy to customize to your taste preferences. Let's get started!
What Makes These Baked Chicken Kabobs Special?
These aren't your average chicken kabobs. We're focusing on achieving maximum flavor and juicy chicken through a combination of careful marination and smart baking techniques. The result? Tender, flavorful chicken with perfectly charred edges, all without the hassle of a grill.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- Wooden or metal skewers (If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.)
How to Make Perfectly Baked Chicken Kabobs: A Step-by-Step Guide
-
Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.
-
Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the chicken, bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers. Try to create a visually appealing arrangement by alternating the ingredients.
-
Bake the Kabobs: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. This makes cleanup a breeze! Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. For extra browning, you can broil the kabobs for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
-
Serve and Enjoy!: Remove the kabobs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These are delicious on their own or served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, marinating for up to 4 hours will result in even more tender and flavorful chicken.
Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even pineapple chunks.
What temperature should I bake the chicken kabobs at?
These kabobs bake best at 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the chicken cooks through without drying out, and the vegetables become tender.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). You can check the temperature with a meat thermometer.
Can I freeze these chicken kabobs?
Yes, you can assemble the kabobs and freeze them before baking. Just thaw them completely before baking, adding a few minutes to the cooking time if needed.
Are these baked chicken kabobs healthy?
Yes! This recipe is relatively low in fat and high in protein and vegetables, making it a healthy and satisfying meal option.
Enjoy your delicious and easy baked chicken kabobs! Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference. Happy cooking!
