These Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Marinated in a zesty ranch dressing with a hint of rosemary, this dish brings out the best in chicken. Plus, they are fun to eat!
Grilling these kabobs is my favorite part! The chicken gets nice and juicy while the rosemary adds a lovely flavor. These are perfect for summer BBQs or quick dinners any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for these kabobs due to their tenderness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use turkey breast or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a nice flavor. You can substitute it with avocado oil or melted coconut oil if you prefer a different taste or if you’re cooking at high heat.
Ranch Dressing: While ranch dressing brings great taste, you can use homemade dressings or Greek yogurt mixed with herbs if you’re looking for a healthier option.
Fresh Rosemary: Fresh rosemary really shines in this recipe. If you don’t have it, use dried rosemary, but remember to use less since it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Kabobs Are Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep your chicken juicy and flavorful, marination is key! The longer you marinade the chicken, the more infused it becomes with flavors. If you can, aim for a 4-6 hour marination for best results.
- Mix the marinade and ensure the chicken is fully coated.
- Always let the chicken rest a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making each bite more tender.
And don’t forget to occasionally flip your kabobs on the grill! This ensures even cooking and gives you those beautiful grill marks.
How to Make Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Grilling:
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling)
- Fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time, plus a minimum of 1 hour marinating (best if you can marinate for 4-6 hours). Grilling the kabobs will take around 10-12 minutes. So in total, you’ll spend a few hours with marinating, but don’t worry; most of that time is hands-off!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, ranch dressing, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, onion powder, black pepper, and salt until everything is well combined. This flavorful marinade will help keep your chicken juicy!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, making sure all the pieces are nicely coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge. For maximum flavor, let it marinate for at least 1 hour, but if you have time, let it sit for 4-6 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
About 20 minutes before you’re ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). This allows your chicken to get those beautiful grill marks and cook evenly!
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers. You can also add pieces of bell peppers or cherry tomatoes between the chicken for extra flavor and color if you like!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Make sure the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
6. Rest and Serve:
Once the kabobs are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices in! You can garnish with fresh rosemary sprigs if desired.
7. Enjoy Your Kabobs!
Serve your delicious rosemary ranch chicken kabobs warm, either with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoy the burst of flavors!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Chicken Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture to the kabobs. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make These Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken in advance! Prepare the kabobs and marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Just wait to skewer and cook them until you’re ready to grill for the best taste and texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a minute or two or warm them gently on the grill to maintain that delicious smoky flavor.
Can I Use Other Vegetables on the Skewers?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking alongside the chicken.
