These Grilled Chicken Kabobs are the perfect balance of tender, juicy chicken and flavorful, charred vegetables, all marinated in a zesty olive oil and vinegar mixture. With just a few simple ingredients, this healthy and easy dish is ideal for grilling season or any time you’re craving something fresh and delicious. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and squash makes this recipe both nutritious and colorful. Drizzle with fresh lemon for an added burst of flavor!

Ingredients

1 lb boneless chicken breasts (about 2-3 breasts)
¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 tsp honey
1 Tbsp minced garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
1 red onion (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 zucchini (sliced into ½-inch slices)
1 yellow squash (sliced into ½-inch slices)
1 red bell pepper (deseeded and cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 lemon (for serving)

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1-2 inch pieces.
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl or large ziplock bag and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours.
Soak the Skewers: While the chicken marinates, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high heat. To prevent the kabobs from sticking, either spray the grill with non-stick cooking spray or brush it with olive oil.
Assemble the Kabobs: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables (red onion, zucchini, squash, and bell pepper) onto the skewers.
Grill the Kabobs: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for approximately 10-15 minutes, turning every few minutes to cook evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and the vegetables are tender.
Serve: Remove the kabobs from the grill and serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top. Enjoy while warm!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Balanced: Packed with lean chicken and fresh vegetables, this recipe offers a nutritious meal with a variety of flavors and textures.
Quick and Easy: With a short marinade time and minimal prep, these kabobs come together fast, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue.
Customizable: You can easily swap out the vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your personal taste.
Perfect for Grilling: The combination of tender chicken and crispy veggies makes these kabobs a delicious choice for grilling season or outdoor cookouts.

Tips

Don’t Overmarinate: While marinating is essential for flavor, don’t marinate the chicken for longer than 2 hours. The vinegar in the marinade can break down the chicken if left too long.
Even Cooking: Try to cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes so they cook evenly on the grill.
Add Some Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Monitor Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat, as this will give the kabobs a nice char without overcooking them.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu, tempeh, or your favorite plant-based protein for a vegetarian version of these kabobs.
Other Veggies: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers of different colors.
Sweet Marinade: For a slightly sweeter flavor, increase the honey in the marinade or add a tablespoon of brown sugar.
Different Protein: You can also make these kabobs with shrimp, beef, or pork instead of chicken for a variety of flavors.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh chicken for kabobs as frozen chicken can release too much moisture and affect the texture of the dish. If using frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it completely first.

Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the kabobs and marinate them in advance. Just refrigerate them for up to 2 hours before grilling.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Serving and Suggestions

Side Dishes: Serve these kabobs with a side of rice, quinoa, or couscous for a complete meal.
Salads: A fresh Greek salad or a simple mixed green salad pairs wonderfully with the grilled flavors of the kabobs.
Dips: Serve with a cool dip like tzatziki, hummus, or a yogurt-based dressing to complement the flavors of the chicken and vegetables.
Bread: Grilled flatbread or pita is a great option to scoop up any leftover marinade or sauce.

These Grilled Chicken Kabobs are a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any grilling occasion. Packed with flavor, protein, and fresh veggies, they are sure to become a favorite at your next cookout!