These Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs are all about juicy chicken and colorful veggies on a stick, baked to perfection! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Just mix your favorite spices, toss in some veggies, and off they go into the oven. It’s so easy that even my cat watches me in awe! 🍗😸
I love to serve these kabobs with rice or a fresh salad. They’re not only tasty but also make for a fun and colorful meal that everyone enjoys!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I love using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but breasts work great too! If you need a substitution, try turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces.
Olive Oil: This adds richness and helps with browning. If you prefer, avocado oil or even melted butter can be used instead. Both have a high smoke point that’s ideal for baking.
Yogurt: Using yogurt makes the chicken extra tender and adds flavor. If you’re dairy-free, swap it with coconut yogurt or a little extra olive oil for moisture.
Spices: The combination of spices is key! If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine. You can also add chili powder for a little heat, if that’s your thing.
Skewers: Metal skewers are great for easy clean-up, while wooden skewers need soaking to prevent burning. You can skip skewering altogether and bake the chicken pieces directly on the tray!
What’s the Best Way to Marinate Chicken for Kabobs?
Marinating chicken not only imparts flavor but also helps keep it juicy during cooking. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Always marinate the chicken in the refrigerator. This prevents any bacteria growth.
- Give it at least 30 minutes, but 1-2 hours is ideal for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Make sure the chicken is fully coated in the marinade for even flavor distribution.
- If time allows, investing in an overnight marination yields incredible results.
Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons plain yogurt (optional, for tenderness)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes of prep time, including marinating, and 20 minutes to bake. Plan for at least 30 minutes of marinating for the best flavor, but if you can, an hour or two is even better!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the olive oil, yogurt, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, cumin, oregano or thyme, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This will be your flavor-packed marinade.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and stir well, ensuring they’re all coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours if you have time) to let the flavors soak in.
3. Preheat and Prepare:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Take the marinated chicken from the fridge. Thread the pieces onto the skewers, spacing them evenly apart. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked to prevent burning during baking.
5. Bake the Kabobs:
Place the assembled kabobs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there’s space between each skewer for even cooking. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking for even browning.
6. Broil for a Finish:
If you’d like a nice crispy finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
7. Serve & Enjoy:
Once fully cooked, remove the kabobs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy them hot with some steamed rice, salad, or your favorite sides!
Enjoy your juicy, tender, and flavorful easy baked chicken kabobs!
FAQ for Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Vegetables on the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini are all great options. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the chicken for even cooking. You can marinate the veggies along with the chicken for added flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat, just be sure to add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Marinade in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just ensure to add the chicken on the day you plan to cook for the best results!
What Should I Serve with Chicken Kabobs?
These kabobs pair perfectly with steamed rice, a refreshing salad, pita bread, or even grilled vegetables. You can also serve them with dipping sauces like tzatziki or hummus for extra flavor!
