Easy Chicken Kebabs Grilled

This is my favorite recipe for easy chicken kebabs because it always turns out juicy and full of flavor. Perfect for summer cookouts or even weeknight dinners these kebabs have become my dependable crowd pleaser.

When I first made these on a weekend barbecue I realized just how much my friends loved that extra lemony kick in the marinade. Now I get asked for this recipe at every potluck.

Ingredients

• Boneless chicken thighs: choose dark meat for maximum juiciness and flavor look for fresh plump pieces
• Soy sauce: gives savory depth and helps tenderize the chicken opt for low sodium if you like
• Olive oil: adds richness and keeps the chicken moist use extra virgin for better flavor
• Dried oregano: brings robust herby notes make sure your oregano is fragrant not stale
• Garlic: minced fresh garlic provides bold aromatic taste pick firm heavy cloves for best flavor
• Lemon juice: fresh lemon brightens the marinade and tenderizes go for a heavy lemon with thin skin
• Multicolored bell peppers: add color natural sweetness and char choose firm bright peppers
• Skewers: pick sturdy metal or soak wooden skewers in water before using to avoid burning

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Place chicken pieces in a large bowl and add soy sauce olive oil dried oregano minced garlic and lemon juice Mix thoroughly so each piece is coated well Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours If you have time go longer for extra flavor and tenderness

Prepare the Skewers:

Cut bell peppers into medium pieces Try to keep them similar in size to the chicken for even cooking Thread chicken and peppers onto the skewers alternating them so every bite gets both

Heat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat Oil the grilling grate well to prevent sticking This step matters because it keeps those beautiful grill marks intact

Grill the Kebabs:

Place skewers on the hot grill Cook for about 7 minutes on each side Turn only once the first side has nice golden char Check that the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear

Oven Option:

If you prefer you can cook these kebabs in the oven Place skewers on a baking sheet in a preheated 450 degree oven Bake for 10 to 15 minutes then turn over Bake for another 10 to 15 minutes depending on the size of the chicken chunks Always check a couple of pieces to be sure they are done

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The sweet bell peppers are my favorite part of this recipe They char up beautifully on the grill and remind me of summer gatherings when my mom snuck extra peppers onto my plate because she knew how much I loved the color and bite

Storage Tips

Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If you want to keep them longer remove the chicken and peppers from the skewers before freezing for up to one month Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have chicken thighs you can use chicken breast but be careful not to overcook Add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth or swap dried oregano for Italian seasoning if that is what you have Bell peppers can be replaced with zucchini or red onion for different color and texture

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Serving Suggestions

Serve these kebabs with warm pita bread a crisp salad or classic roasted potatoes They pair well with a cool yogurt sauce or some simple rice pilaf For parties try a platter with fresh lemon wedges and extra chopped herbs on top

Cultural Context

Chicken kebabs are enjoyed around the world Each region puts its own twist on the marinade and veggies This version was inspired by Mediterranean flavors but I love how it works with almost any cuisine just by tweaking the herbs or side dishes

Frequently Asked Questions About the Recipe

→ How long should you marinate the chicken for best flavor?

For optimum flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better as it allows the seasonings to fully penetrate the meat.

→ Can you substitute chicken breast for thighs?

Yes, chicken breast can be used, but thighs remain juicier and more tender after grilling due to their higher fat content.

→ What vegetables pair well with chicken kebabs?

Bell peppers work beautifully, but onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are also excellent choices for skewering.

→ Is it possible to cook these kebabs in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake the skewered chicken and peppers in a preheated 450°F oven, turning once, until cooked through and lightly charred.

→ How can you prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Lightly oil the grates before placing the skewers on the grill to help prevent sticking and achieve easy turning.