These Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Tender chicken marinated in garlic and balsamic vinegar gets grilled to perfection on skewers with colorful veggies.
They make a fun meal for summer cookouts, and the best part? Cleanup is a breeze! I like to serve them with rice or a simple salad for a complete dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe because they’re tender and juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for a richer flavor or even tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Balsamic Vinegar: This gives the kabobs a wonderful tangy flavor. If you don’t have it, red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can work as substitutes, though they will change the taste slightly.
Vegetables: Zucchini and yellow squash are great for grilling because they hold up well. Bell peppers and cherry tomatoes are tasty options too and add vibrant colors to your kabobs.
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a nice punch. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but fresh garlic really enhances the flavor.
How Do I Grill Chicken Kabobs to Perfection?
Grilling kabobs might seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked chicken every time. Make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before using. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—this ensures a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between ingredients to allow even cooking.
- Turn the kabobs every few minutes to get an even char on all sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
With these simple steps, you’ll be serving delicious kabobs in no time! Enjoy the process, and feel free to customize your kabobs to match your taste preferences.
Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium yellow squash, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, cut into chunks
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Metal or soaked wooden skewers
Time Estimate:
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation and at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) for marinating. Add another 15 minutes for grilling, making the total time around 1 hour. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until everything is well mixed and combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss it around to coat all the pieces evenly. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you want even more flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables:
While the chicken is marinating, slice the zucchini, yellow squash, and onion into bite-sized pieces that are easy to skewer. This will add color and flavor to your kabobs!
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken is done marinating, grab your skewers. Start threading the marinated chicken pieces, zucchini slices, yellow squash rounds, and onion chunks onto the skewers, alternating between each ingredient for a pretty arrangement.
5. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to keep the kabobs from sticking. This step is important for achieving those beautiful grill marks!
6. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the assembled skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to turn them every 3-4 minutes so they cook evenly on all sides. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
7. Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. For a lovely finishing touch, sprinkle chopped fresh basil over the kabobs before serving. Enjoy them hot with your favorite side dishes!
Enjoy your flavorful Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Garlic Balsamic Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables in These Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize your kabobs with other veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just make sure to cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative! They are juicier and add more flavor. Just ensure they are boneless and skinless for the best results.
What Should I Serve with the Kabobs?
These kabobs pair wonderfully with rice, couscous, or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with grilled corn or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal!
