These Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs are colorful and tasty! With juicy chicken and vibrant veggies, they make a fun meal for everyone. Just pop them in the oven for a quick dinner!
Honestly, who doesn’t love food on a stick? It’s like a party on your plate! I often serve these with rice to soak up the yummy juices—it’s a hit with my family!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This is the main protein for the kabobs. While chicken breast keeps things lean, you can also use thighs for a juicier result. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try using firm tofu or tempeh cut into cubes.
Olive Oil: It’s essential for marinating and helps keep the chicken moist. If you’re out of olive oil, you can use avocado oil or even vegetable oil, though olive oil adds a nice flavor.
Lemon Juice: This adds a zesty brightness to the marinade. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice works, but fresh is best for flavor. Lime juice can be a great substitute too.
Spices (Paprika, Onion Powder, Dried Oregano): These spices create a rich flavor. If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika gives a delightful smoky taste. Italian seasoning can replace oregano in a pinch if you want a herb mix.
Fresh Parsley: This is used for garnish and adds a burst of color. If you don’t have parsley, cilantro or chives can work well too.
How Do I Make Sure My Kabobs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key to getting great flavor and moisture. Make sure to let the chicken soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes. However, for the best results, aim for several hours or even overnight. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat.
- Mix the marinade well to ensure all ingredients are combined.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid during marination to keep it sealed.
- When threading the chicken onto skewers, leave some space between pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Flip the skewers halfway through baking for even browning.
By paying attention to these small details, your kabobs will be deliciously juicy and full of flavor. Don’t forget to serve them with warm rice to soak up any extra juices! Enjoy!
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, plus a minimum of 30 minutes to marinate. After that, you’ll have about 20 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So, allow around 1 hour total, including marination time for extra flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until it’s well blended. This tasty marinade will give your chicken lots of flavor!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade in the bowl, making sure all the pieces are coated nicely. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes—if you have time, letting it sit overnight will make it even tastier!
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece. This helps them cook evenly and get nice and tender.
5. Bake the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on your prepared baking sheet and pop them in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the skewers halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and has a lovely golden color.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once your kabobs are ready, take them out of the oven and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve them over a bed of cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier flavor. Just remember that thighs may require a little longer cooking time, so check for doneness to ensure they’re fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even avocado oil. Each will work well for marinating and roasting the chicken, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
How to Store Leftover Chicken Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through, to keep them crispy!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply thread the chicken onto skewers and bake. This makes it an easy meal prep option!
