Chicken and Vegetable Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and charred flavors, bringing together the tenderness of chicken with the vibrant crunch of fresh vegetables. These skewers are versatile, customizable, and a great choice for grilling, whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, a weekend barbecue, or a special celebration. Packed with protein and colorful veggies, they make for a healthy and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

With the ease of preparation and minimal ingredients, Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are an excellent go-to recipe for a hassle-free and delicious meal. The marinade infuses the chicken with a burst of flavor, while grilling the skewers brings out the natural sweetness and smokiness of the vegetables. This recipe also offers plenty of room for creativity—mix and match different vegetables or try various marinades to suit your taste.

Why You’ll Love Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

• Healthy and Nutritious: This recipe is a balanced combination of lean protein from the chicken and fiber-rich vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. It’s a low-calorie option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Customizable: You can easily switch up the vegetables or adjust the seasoning to your liking. From juicy cherry tomatoes to mushrooms or even pineapple for a tropical twist, the options are endless.
• Perfect for Grilling: The skewer format makes it simple to grill the ingredients evenly, ensuring everything is cooked to perfection. Whether using a gas grill or charcoal, these skewers develop a delicious, smoky flavor that enhances their appeal.
• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of under 15 minutes and a cooking time of 10-15 minutes, this meal comes together fast, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts.
• Great for Meal Prep: These skewers can be made in advance, stored, and reheated for later use. Perfect for meal prepping for the week or for outdoor gatherings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250-300 kcal
• Fat: 10-15g
• Carbohydrates: 8-12g
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fiber: 2-3g
• Sugar: 4-5g

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Vegetable Skewers:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds or half-moons
• 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes (optional)
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (optional, for a tropical twist)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or cilantro)

Special Equipment

Although Chicken and Vegetable Skewers require just a few basic tools, using the right equipment can help ensure success and make the process easier:

1. Wooden or Metal Skewers: Skewers are essential for threading the chicken and vegetables. Metal skewers are reusable and can withstand high heat, while wooden skewers should be soaked in water for about 30 minutes before use to prevent burning.
2. Grill: Whether you’re using a gas or charcoal grill, a well-preheated grill will ensure even cooking and that beautiful char marks. Alternatively, you can cook these skewers in an oven under a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan.
3. Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for marinating the chicken and vegetables ensures that they’re evenly coated with the marinade.
4. Basting Brush: A basting brush can help you evenly coat the skewers with extra marinade or olive oil while grilling, helping to keep them moist and flavorful.
5. Tongs: Tongs are helpful for turning the skewers on the grill, making sure each side is evenly cooked and charred to perfection.
6. Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements for spices and seasoning are key to getting the flavor balance just right.
7. Grill Thermometer: If you’re grilling the chicken on a gas or charcoal grill, a thermometer helps ensure that the chicken is fully cooked without overdoing it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, oregano, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the mixture well until all the ingredients are incorporated. This marinade will infuse the chicken with moisture and flavor, creating a savory base for the skewers.

2. Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables

Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade and stir to coat them evenly. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 15-20 minutes, or up to 1 hour for more flavor. While the chicken marinates, you can prepare your vegetables.

If you’re using vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, onions, or mushrooms, chop them into bite-sized pieces. You can mix and match vegetables based on your preferences. If you’re using pineapple, you can prepare it into chunks for a touch of sweetness.

3. Prepare the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between the chicken and veggies for an even balance. Aim for about 4-5 pieces of chicken per skewer, with an assortment of vegetables in between. Make sure to leave a little space between the pieces to allow for even cooking.

If using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning on the grill.

4. Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F or 200-230°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill, ensuring they are positioned perpendicular to the grill grates to avoid falling through. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning them every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked, and the vegetables should be tender with a nice char.

If you prefer, you can baste the skewers with extra marinade or olive oil during grilling to enhance moisture and flavor.

6. Serve the Skewers

Once the skewers are done cooking, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute in the chicken, ensuring a moist and tender bite.

Optionally, garnish the skewers with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for an extra touch of color and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave a little space between the pieces of chicken and vegetables to allow for even cooking and better caramelization.
• Use Tender Cuts of Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for skewers, but you can also use thighs for a juicier option. Be sure to cut the chicken into uniform-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
• Experiment with Marinades: Feel free to get creative with your marinades. You can add honey or brown sugar for a touch of sweetness, or swap in your favorite spices for a different flavor profile.
• Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken. While the chicken should reach 165°F, the vegetables should be cooked to your liking—some prefer a little bite, while others like them soft and tender.
• Make Ahead: These skewers can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. You can also marinate the chicken for longer for even more flavor.

Variations of Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

• Spicy Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick. You can also brush the skewers with sriracha sauce or your favorite hot sauce during grilling.
• Greek Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Use a marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and feta cheese. Add vegetables like cucumbers, red onions, and Kalamata olives for a Mediterranean flair.
• BBQ Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Use your favorite barbecue sauce in place of the marinade and brush the skewers with extra sauce while grilling. Pair with vegetables like corn, mushrooms, and onions.
• Asian-Inspired Chicken and Vegetable Skewers: Swap in soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic for an Asian-inspired marinade. Add vegetables like bok choy, snow peas, and shiitake mushrooms for a delicious flavor profile.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill, but they can also be stored for later. Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a few seconds or reheat on a grill or stovetop until warm.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked skewers. Arrange the skewers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen skewers can last up to 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or grill them for a few minutes until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

Pair these skewers with side dishes that complement their flavors:

• Couscous or Quinoa: A fluffy side of couscous or quinoa pairs wonderfully with the skewers, adding texture and substance to the meal.
• Rice Pilaf: A light rice pilaf with herbs and lemon is a great accompaniment to soak up any leftover marinade.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds a sweet and smoky flavor that goes well with the savory chicken and veggies.
• Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olives provides a crisp, refreshing contrast to the grilled skewers.

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Conclusion

Chicken and Vegetable Skewers offer a delicious, healthy, and customizable grilling option that everyone will love. With the perfect combination of tender chicken, flavorful vegetables, and savory marinade, these skewers are an easy and crowd-pleasing meal for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a BBQ, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the deliciousness of these skewers—grilled to perfection and bursting with flavor!