Get ready for these tasty BBQ chicken kabobs that are super easy to make! Juicy chicken chunks are marinated in a yummy BBQ sauce and paired with colorful veggies on a stick.
I love how fast these cook on the grill—just a few minutes and they’re done! Perfect for a fun summer barbecue or even a quick weeknight dinner. Trust me, you’ll want extra skewers! 🍗🌽
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I use chicken breast for a lean protein option. If you prefer darker meat, you can substitute with chicken thighs, which provide more flavor and moisture.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness. If you can’t find them, feel free to use regular diced tomatoes instead. Grape tomatoes work well too!
Mozzarella Balls: I love using bocconcini because they’re bite-sized and melt in your mouth. You can swap them with feta cheese or even sharp cheddar if you’re feeling adventurous!
Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley brighten the kabobs. If fresh herbs aren’t available, you can use dried herbs, but use less—about a third of the amount!
Olive Oil: This gives the marinade richness. You could use avocado oil or canola oil as a substitute, especially if you’re looking for a neutral flavor.
How Do I Properly Marinate Chicken for Kabobs?
Marinating the chicken is key to infusing it with flavor. Mixing the marinade with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs allows the flavors to mingle nicely. Remember to cover and refrigerate your chicken for at least 1 hour, but I recommend overnight if you have time.
- Combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, oregano, basil, and parsley in a bowl.
- Add chicken cubes, stirring well to coat. Cover with plastic wrap.
- Chill in the fridge to let the flavors soak into the chicken.
This step can make a huge difference in taste, so don’t rush it! Enjoy the process and wait for that delicious flavor to develop.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Extra Items:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of preparation, plus at least 1 hour to marinate the chicken. If you can, let it marinate overnight for better flavor! Cooking on the grill will take around 12-15 minutes, making the total time around 1 hour and 45 minutes including marinating time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, it’s important to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help prevent them from burning on the grill.
2. Making the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Add the chopped basil and parsley, mixing everything together until well combined. This will be your marinade! With its fresh herbs and zesty flavor, it’s what makes your chicken so delicious.
3. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour; if you have time, marinate it overnight for an even tastier result.
4. Prepping for the Grill:
When it’s almost time to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This gets it nice and hot for perfect grilling!
5. Assembling the Kabobs:
Once the chicken has marinated, take your soaked skewers and begin threading the chicken cubes, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls onto them. Alternate the ingredients for a colorful and tasty kabob. Don’t forget to leave a little space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
6. Grilling the Kabobs:
Brush the kabobs lightly with any leftover marinade for an extra flavor boost. Carefully place them on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes. Remember to turn them occasionally so all sides get nice grill marks and the chicken cooks evenly. You’re looking for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the chicken to be safely cooked.
7. Serving the Kabobs:
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy. You can garnish them with more fresh herbs if you’d like. Serve them warm, perfect alongside your favorite dipping sauce or a fresh salad. Enjoy the delicious BBQ flavors!
Can I Substitute Chicken with Another Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, beef, or even tofu as a substitute. If using shrimp, ensure they’re deveined and peeled. For beef, choose tender cuts like sirloin and cut them into 1-inch cubes. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly—shrimp typically cooks faster, while beef may need a bit longer.
What Can I Use Instead of Cherry Tomatoes?
If cherry tomatoes aren’t available, consider using diced regular tomatoes or bell peppers for a similar flavor. You can also try adding zucchini slices or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist! Just keep in mind that cooking times may slightly vary with different vegetables.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the grill for a few minutes or pop them in the microwave. If you find them a bit dry after reheating, add a drizzle of olive oil or a splash of water before warming them up.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to use, simply toss it with the chicken. This makes meal prep super easy, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify for a more delicious meal!
