Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs are a delightful and easy dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a punchy garlic herb marinade. Perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week, these kabobs offer a flavorful experience that everyone will love. With minimal prep time and maximum taste, Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs stand out as a go-to choice for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The combination of garlic and herbs creates a deliciously savory flavor that infuses the chicken.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your kabobs with your favorite vegetables or even swap in different proteins to suit your taste.
• Grill-Ready Delight: These kabobs are ideal for grilling season, providing that smoky char that enhances their taste.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and vegetables, this dish is not only tasty but also nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather your tools and prepare your workspace. Having everything ready makes the preparation smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Ziploc bag
• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wood)
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Ziploc bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while keeping your fridge tidy.
• Grill: Provides the best cooking method for kabobs, delivering that authentic grilled flavor.
• Skewers: Essential for assembling the kabobs; metal skewers are reusable while soaked wood prevents burning.

Ingredients

Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs are super simple to make. Simply mix up the marinade, let all the ingredients chill in the refrigerator for a bit and fire up your grill! Easy, flavor packed, and perfect for grilling season!

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup water
• 1/3 cup vinegar
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 5 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp poultry seasoning
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper

For the Kabobs

• 2 lb chicken breast (boneless/skinless, cut into chunks)
• 3 bell peppers (deseeded, cut into chunks)
• 1 onion (cut into chunks)
• 2 cups mushrooms (large enough to skewer)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

In a small bowl, combine the water, vinegar, vegetable oil, minced garlic, thyme, Italian seasoning, poultry seasoning, rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut chicken into small pieces and place them in a large Ziploc bag. Pour the marinade mixture into the bag. Seal it closed and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

Step 3: Prepare Vegetables

While the chicken marinates, cut your vegetables into chunks. This can include bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.

Step 4: Soak Skewers (if using wood)

If you are using wood skewers for your kabobs, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to avoid burning on the grill.

Step 5: Assemble Skewers

Remove marinated chicken from the fridge. Take skewers and alternate threading pieces of marinated chicken with vegetables until they are filled as desired.

Step 6: Season Kabobs (optional)

At this point, you can sprinkle additional seasoning on top of your assembled kabobs if desired. An all-purpose seasoning works well here.

Step 7: Preheat Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures an even cook as you prepare to place your kabobs on it.

Step 8: Grill Kabobs

Place kabobs on the grill and cook them over medium-high heat for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them every few minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 9: Serve

Once cooked through with nice grill marks on both sides, remove kabobs from the grill. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to satisfy your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner, these kabobs can be paired with different sides and dips for a complete meal.

Pair with Fresh Salads

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese that complements the flavors of the kabobs.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provides a rich contrast.
• Coleslaw: A tangy slaw adds crunch and balances the savory taste of the chicken skewers.

Serve with Dips

• Tzatziki Sauce: This yogurt-based sauce brings a cool, creamy element that pairs well with the garlicky flavors.
• Hummus: Smooth and flavorful, hummus can be used as a dip for both the kabobs and fresh vegetables on the side.
• Chimichurri Sauce: This vibrant herb sauce adds brightness and an extra kick to your chicken kabobs.

Include Grains

• Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs provides a lovely base for your kabobs.
• Quinoa Salad: A protein-packed option that adds texture and flavor while keeping the meal healthy.

How to Perfect Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

To achieve the best Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs, there are several key techniques you can employ. These tips will ensure your kabobs come out juicy and flavorful every time.

• Marinate for Longer: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better for deeper flavor.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices enhance the taste; opt for high-quality products whenever possible.
• Cut Uniformly: Ensure all chicken and vegetable pieces are similar in size to promote even cooking on the grill.
• Preheat Your Grill: Starting with a hot grill helps achieve perfect sear marks and locks in moisture.
• Turn Regularly: Rotate the skewers every few minutes for even cooking and browning on all sides.
• Check Doneness Carefully: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

Pairing your Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs with tasty side dishes can elevate your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus brushed with olive oil make a colorful addition to your plate.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled until slightly charred offers a classic summer flavor that complements kabobs well.
3. Baked Potatoes: Fluffy potatoes topped with sour cream provide comfort and pair perfectly with juicy chicken skewers.
4. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad loaded with veggies is refreshing and easy to prepare ahead of time.
5. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread adds another layer of flavor that guests will love alongside their kabobs.
6. Fruit Skewers: Fresh fruit skewers not only look appealing but also add sweetness that balances the savory chicken flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for less than 2 hours can result in bland flavors. Always aim for at least 2 hours in the refrigerator to allow the spices to infuse.

• Skipping the soaking of wooden skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking them, they can burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent this issue.

• Overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much chicken and veggies onto each skewer can lead to uneven cooking. Leave some space between pieces to ensure everything cooks evenly and thoroughly.

• Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill may cause your kabobs to stick and cook improperly. Preheat it to medium-high heat for optimal grilling results.

• Ignoring vegetable sizes: Cutting vegetables into uneven sizes can lead to inconsistent cooking times. Aim for uniform chunks so everything cooks evenly together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a bit of oil and sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different meats for Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs?

Yes! While chicken is delicious, you can substitute with beef, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the protein you choose.

How do I know when my kabobs are done?

For chicken kabobs, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The meat should be white and juices should run clear when pierced.

What can I serve with Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs?

These kabobs pair well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with dips like tzatziki or hummus for added flavor.

Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade and marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Just assemble the kabobs before grilling when you’re ready.

How do I customize my Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs?

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus. You can also adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Herb Chicken Kabobs are not only simple but also packed with flavor, making them perfect for any occasion. Their versatility allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these kabobs are sure to please everyone at your table! Give them a try today!