Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs

Description

These Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs are the perfect summer meal – flavorful, healthy, and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken pieces are marinated in a tangy balsamic glaze and then threaded onto skewers with colorful, fresh vegetables. Grilled to perfection, these kabobs offer a delicious balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, these kabobs are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich, complex flavor that complements the natural sweetness of the vegetables. The combination of textures, from the juicy chicken to the slightly charred veggies, creates a delightful culinary experience.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

You will absolutely adore these Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs for several reasons. First, they are incredibly versatile; you can easily customize the vegetables to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Second, the balsamic marinade is a flavor powerhouse, tenderizing the chicken while infusing it with a delicious sweet and tangy taste. Third, they are a healthy and balanced meal, packed with protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals from the colorful vegetables. Fourth, they are visually appealing, making them a hit at any gathering. Finally, the simplicity of the recipe and the quick cooking time make them perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cookouts. It’s a recipe that combines ease, flavor, and healthy eating into one delightful package. The marinade is a star, turning ordinary chicken into something extraordinary. Plus, the interactive nature of eating kabobs adds a fun element to mealtime. They are also very easy to transport, so perfect for picnics or potlucks. Once you try these, they will become a regular feature on your meal plan.

Ingredients:

For the Marinade and Chicken:

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts), cut into 1-inch pieces
1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Vegetables:

1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 yellow squash, sliced into thick rounds
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into wedges
Cherry tomatoes (about 1 cup)

For Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Preparation:

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure all the ingredients are well combined, creating a smooth and flavorful marinade. The balsamic vinegar provides a tangy base, while the honey adds sweetness, and the garlic and oregano contribute a savory depth. Olive oil helps to emulsify the marinade and adds richness.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken: Add the cut chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated. This step is crucial for infusing the chicken with flavor. Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag.

Step 3: Refrigerate and Marinate: Place the covered bowl or bag in the refrigerator and allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. During this time, the balsamic vinegar helps to break down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender and juicy final product.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Wash and slice the zucchini and yellow squash into thick rounds. Cut the red and yellow bell peppers into 1-inch pieces. Cut the red onion into wedges. Keep the cherry tomatoes whole. Having all the vegetables prepared in advance will make the assembly process much smoother. Ensure the vegetable pieces are of similar size to ensure even cooking on the grill.

Step 5: Assemble the Kabobs: Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. Take your skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill). Thread the chicken pieces and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating them to create a colorful and appealing pattern. You can arrange the vegetables in any order you like, but try to keep a variety of colors and textures on each skewer. Make sure not to overcrowd the skewers, as this can hinder even cooking.

COOKING Rating:

Easy

Serving Suggestions:

These Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with:

Rice: Fluffy white rice, brown rice, or a flavorful pilaf.
Couscous: A light and fluffy couscous salad with herbs and vegetables.
Quinoa: A nutritious quinoa salad with black beans, corn, and avocado.
Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
Grilled Vegetables: Additional grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or corn on the cob.
Pita Bread: Warm pita bread for wrapping the kabobs.

Tips:

Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes is crucial, but you can marinate it for longer (up to 2 hours) for an even more intense flavor.
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to customize the vegetables to your liking. Other great options include mushrooms, pineapple chunks, or eggplant.
Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Grilling Temperature: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
Even Cooking: Turn the kabobs frequently while grilling to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Resting Time: After grilling, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Marinade Reuse: Do not reuse the marinade after it has been in contact with raw chicken.

Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 12-15 minutes Total Time: 42-45 minutes (including marinating time)

Nutritional Information:

(Estimated per serving, values may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

Calories: Approximately 350-400 kcal
Protein: Approximately 30-35 g
Sodium: Approximately 400-500 mg

Conclusion

These Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs are a delightful and versatile meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken and colorful, fresh vegetables makes for a balanced and satisfying dish. The easy preparation and quick cooking time make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cookouts. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner cook, this recipe is sure to impress. The tangy balsamic marinade elevates the chicken to new heights, while the customizable vegetables allow you to create a meal that suits your personal preferences. So, fire up the grill and enjoy this delicious and healthy dish! It’s a guaranteed hit with family and friends.

Questions and Answers about this recipe

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken thighs?
- Absolutely! While chicken thighs tend to be more moist and flavorful due to their higher fat content, chicken breasts can certainly be used. Just be sure to cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Also, keep a close eye on the grill, as chicken breasts can dry out more quickly than thighs. Consider slightly reducing the grilling time to prevent overcooking and ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy. Another trick is to marinate the chicken breasts for the full 2 hours to help them retain moisture during grilling. You might also consider pounding the chicken breasts slightly before cutting them into pieces to tenderize them further.
What other vegetables can I use for the kabobs?
- The beauty of kabobs is their versatility! Feel free to get creative with your vegetable choices. Some excellent alternatives or additions include:
  - Mushrooms: Button mushrooms, cremini mushrooms, or even portobello mushrooms add a meaty texture and earthy flavor.
  - Pineapple: Chunks of fresh pineapple provide a sweet and tangy contrast to the savory chicken and vegetables.
  - Eggplant: Cubes of eggplant soak up the marinade beautifully and become tender and slightly smoky on the grill.
  - Bell Peppers (different colors): Use a mix of different colored bell peppers (orange, purple) for a more visually appealing and nutritious kabob.
  - Broccoli or Cauliflower florets: These add a nice crunch and are packed with nutrients.
  - Summer Squash variations: Consider using different variations of Summer Squash.
  - Spicy Peppers: Slice some jalapeno or other Spicy Peppers
Just ensure that all the vegetables are cut into similar sizes to promote even cooking on the grill.
Can I prepare these kabobs ahead of time?
- Yes, you can! In fact, preparing the kabobs ahead of time can be a great way to save time during the week. You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which will enhance the flavor even more. Assemble the kabobs with the chicken and vegetables, cover them tightly, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to grill, simply take them out of the refrigerator and cook according to the recipe instructions. Remember to allow the kabobs to come to room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before grilling for more even cooking.
What can I serve with these kabobs to make it a complete meal?
- To create a well-rounded and satisfying meal, consider serving these Balsamic Grilled Chicken Kabobs with a variety of complementary side dishes:
  - Grains: Rice (white, brown, or wild rice), couscous, or quinoa provide a hearty and nutritious base. Season them with herbs, lemon juice, or a light vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the kabobs.
  - Salads: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette, a Greek salad with feta cheese and olives, or a Caprese salad with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil are all excellent choices.
  - Grilled Vegetables: Grilled asparagus, corn on the cob, or grilled zucchini make for a delicious and healthy side.
  - Bread: Warm pita bread, naan bread, or crusty bread can be used to wrap the kabobs or soak up any leftover sauce.
  - Dips and Sauces: Tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a simple yogurt dip can add extra flavor and moisture to the meal.
How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?
- Preventing the chicken from sticking to the grill is essential for achieving perfectly grilled kabobs. Here are a few tips to help:
  - Clean the Grill: Make sure your grill grates are clean before you start grilling. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or residue from previous cooking sessions.
  - Oil the Grates: Lightly oil the grill grates with cooking oil or a non-stick cooking spray. This creates a barrier between the chicken and the grill, preventing sticking.
  - Pat the Chicken Dry: Before placing the chicken on the grill, pat it dry with paper towels. This helps to remove excess moisture, which can contribute to sticking.
  - Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Avoid overcrowding the grill with too many kabobs. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and increase the likelihood of sticking.
  - Turn Sparingly: Resist the urge to flip the kabobs too frequently. Allow the chicken to cook for a few minutes on each side before attempting to turn it. If it’s sticking, it’s not ready to be turned yet.
  - Use Tongs or a Spatula: When turning the kabobs, use tongs or a spatula instead of a fork. A fork can pierce the chicken, releasing juices and increasing the risk of sticking. “””

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