These BBQ chicken kabobs are colorful and fun! Juicy chicken pieces are threaded onto skewers with tasty veggies like bell peppers and onions, then grilled to perfection.
They’re perfect for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners. I love how easy they are to whip up, and the kids enjoy helping with the assembly—just watch out for sneaky bites! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: Chicken breast is lean and works great for kabobs. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be a juicy alternative. They won’t dry out as easily on the grill.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a pop of color and sweetness. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, you can use quartered regular tomatoes but ensure they’re firm to hold their shape while grilling.
Mozzarella Balls: I love using fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. You can substitute it with cubed feta for a tangy twist or even use vegan cheese if you’re looking for dairy-free options.
Basil Pesto: The pesto adds fantastic flavor. If you don’t have basil pesto, feel free to use sun-dried tomato pesto or even a homemade almond or walnut pesto for a unique spin.
Olive Oil: Olive oil enhances flavor and helps with grilling. You can use avocado oil or canola oil if you want a neutral taste or if olive oil is unavailable.
How Do I Keep My Skewers from Burning on the Grill?
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This simple step prevents them from catching fire on the grill. If you prefer metal skewers, there’s no soaking required, and they’re reusable!
- While the skewers are soaking, prep your chicken and other ingredients for threading.
- After soaking, pat the wooden skewers dry before adding the food. This keeps moisture from dripping onto your grill.
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Flavor?
Marinating is key for juicy and flavorful chicken in your kabobs. In a big bowl, combine cubed chicken with basil pesto, a little olive oil, and spices. Toss everything well to coat each piece. For extra flavor, marinate for at least 30 minutes, but letting it sit for up to 2 hours in the fridge can really enhance the taste.
How Can I Tell When My Chicken is Fully Cooked?
To ensure your chicken kabobs are perfectly cooked, it’s helpful to use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, check that the chicken is no longer pink in the center and the juices run clear.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella balls
For Marinade:
- 1/2 cup fresh basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Extras:
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and marinating, and then around 12-15 minutes for grilling. If you choose to marinate overnight in the fridge, that will add extra time but boost the flavor. Altogether, it’s a quick and delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, start by soaking them in water for about 30 minutes. This will help prevent them from burning on the grill. If you’re using metal skewers, you can skip this step.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast, basil pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well until the chicken is nicely coated with the marinade. If you have time, let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For even more flavor, you can let it sit in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This allows for a nice, even cook on the kabobs.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once marinated, thread the chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. This makes a colorful and tasty kabob that’s fun to eat!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
When your grill is hot and ready, place the skewers on it. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally for even cooking. You’ll know they’re done when the chicken is cooked through and has those lovely grill marks.
6. Rest and Serve:
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them sit for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy. If you like, drizzle with a little more basil pesto before serving. Enjoy your warm BBQ Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Other Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the chicken with beef, pork, or shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly: shrimp cooks quickly (about 5-7 minutes), while beef and pork may take a bit longer depending on the cut and size of the pieces.
What Can I Use Instead of Basil Pesto?
If you don’t have basil pesto, try using sun-dried tomato pesto, garlic-infused olive oil, or even a simple marinade of olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Each option will add a unique flavor to the kabobs!
How to Store Leftover Kabobs
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the kabobs on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Kabobs?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or mushrooms for added color and nutrition. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
