These Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs are a colorful treat! Juicy chicken pieces with vibrant veggies make for a fun meal that’s simple to whip up.
I love how quick they are to make. Just thread everything on skewers, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: For kabobs, I like using boneless skinless thighs as they stay juicy. But you can also use breasts if you prefer leaner meat. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider tofu or even shrimp for a twist!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and moisture. If you’re out, vegetable or avocado oil work just fine. I’ve even used sesame oil for a lovely nutty taste!
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice is best. However, bottled lemon juice can substitute in a pinch. Lime juice can also be used for a different citrus twist!
Spices: Paprika, cumin, and oregano are key for flavor. If you want to change things up, try smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
Parsley: This is just for garnish, so feel free to swap it with cilantro or chives if you prefer those herbs.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for the Best Flavor?
Marinating chicken is crucial for enhancing its flavor and tenderness. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices in a bowl to create a flavorful marinade.
- Cut chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes to ensure even marination and cooking.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, and mix until every piece is coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but longer (up to overnight) really helps the flavors deepen.
- Don’t skip this step! Marinating is the secret to delicious kabobs.
How to Make Easy Baked Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and 25 minutes to cook. After marinating, you’ll have wonderfully flavorful kabobs ready to serve in roughly 1 hour if you let them sit in the fridge for a while. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with aluminum foil or parchment paper. This makes cleanup super easy later on!
2. Make the Marinade:
In a good-sized bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This tasty mixture will be your chicken’s best friend!
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, add those juicy chicken cubes to your marinade. Stir well to ensure every piece is coated in that delicious sauce. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, popping it into the refrigerator and letting it sit for a few hours or overnight will make the flavors even better!
4. Thread the Chicken onto Skewers:
Once the chicken is marinated, take some skewers (if using wooden ones, remember to soak them in water first to prevent burning). Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a little space between each one for even cooking.
5. Bake the Kabobs:
Place your chicken skewers on the prepared baking sheet. Pop them in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 to 25 minutes. You want the chicken to be fully cooked and nice and golden brown when done.
6. Rest and Serve:
When you take the kabobs out of the oven, let them sit for a few minutes to rest. This helps keep them juicy. Then, serve your beautiful kabobs over a bed of cooked rice and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that extra touch!
Enjoy your delicious chicken kabobs—you’ve earned it!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts work well, but keep in mind they can dry out more easily than thighs. To prevent this, be sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or longer for extra moisture, and keep an eye on them while baking to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re out of olive oil, you can use vegetable oil, canola oil, or even coconut oil. These oils have similar properties and will work just fine for the marinade, ensuring your chicken remains juicy and flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to keep the chicken tender and warm.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Skewers?
Definitely! Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are great additions. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes as the chicken pieces and adjust the baking time slightly if the veggies need it. They will add flavor and color to your kabobs!
