These Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken, marinated in a yummy mix of garlic and balsamic vinegar, adds great flavor to your backyard barbecues.
Perfect for summer gatherings, these kabobs come together quickly and are fun to eat! I always love adding some colorful veggies to mine for a nice crunch. Who can resist a kabob? 🍢
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts provide tender pieces that cook well on the grill. If you want a different flavor, try using chicken thighs instead; they have more juiciness and flavor.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is key for a tangy taste. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar works in a pinch, but it will be less sweet. You can also try apple cider vinegar for a milder flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a strong aroma. You can use garlic powder if you’re in a hurry, but fresh is preferred for its brighter taste. Adjust the amount based on your love for garlic!
Honey: This balances the vinegar’s acidity. If you’re avoiding sugar, maple syrup or agave can be nice substitutes, giving a different but delicious sweetness to the marinade.
Vegetables: Bell peppers and onions add color and crunch. Feel free to swap them for zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes based on your preference or what’s in season.
How Do I Ensure My Kabobs Are Tender and Juicy?
To get tender kabobs, marinating the chicken is key. The longer you let the chicken sit in the marinade, the more flavor it absorbs. Allow at least 30 minutes, but for the best results, aim for 1-2 hours.
- Use a resealable bag to marinate; it helps coat all the pieces evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; give the pieces space for even cooking.
- Grill on medium-high heat for quick cooking, which helps keep the chicken juicy.
- Check for doneness by cutting a piece or using a meat thermometer (165°F is ideal).
Letting the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling also helps the juices redistribute, keeping each bite moist!
Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 small red onion, cut into wedges
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior to grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and 10-12 minutes for grilling. With marinating time, plan for about 1-2 hours total to let the flavors soak in. It’s a quick and easy meal to whip up for dinner or a BBQ!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well mixed. This marinade is packed with flavor and helps keep the chicken tender!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure to toss them well so they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. For the best results, let the chicken marinate for 1-2 hours to get that delicious flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
Once you’re ready to cook, preheat the grill to medium-high heat. This is important to get those nice grill marks and a delicious char on your kabobs.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
While the grill heats up, take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. Thread the chicken pieces onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion wedges. This not only adds beautiful colors but also delicious flavors!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the kabobs from sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them every 3-4 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once done, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the chicken. Serve them with your favorite side dishes, like a crisp salad or over a bed of rice, and enjoy every flavorful bite!
Enjoy these flavorful, juicy Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs! Perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful than breasts. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs may take a minute or two longer to cook through.
What Vegetables Can I Add to My Kabobs?
Feel free to get creative! You can add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or even pineapple for a sweet twist. Just make sure to cut everything into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container until you’re ready to marinate the chicken. This can save you time on busy days!
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them up in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook them to keep them moist.