These BBQ chicken kabobs are super fun to make! Tender chicken pieces are coated in sweet, tangy BBQ sauce and grilled with colorful veggies. Perfect for a summer cookout!
I love watching them sizzle on the grill. Plus, they’re quick to prepare! Just toss everything on skewers, and you’re ready for a tasty meal in no time. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for kabobs. You can also use thighs for a juicier bite. If you’re looking for a meat-free option, try marinated tofu or tempeh instead!
Pesto Sauce: Store-bought pesto is convenient, but homemade adds a personal touch. For a lighter option, you can use any herb sauce or even a mix of olive oil, garlic, and fresh herbs if you don’t have pesto on hand.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst when grilled. If you can’t find them, you can use diced bell peppers or zucchini for a different flavor and texture.
Cheese: Mozzarella balls give a nice creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, feel free to skip the cheese or use vegan cheese alternatives.
Skewers: Metal skewers can be reused, while wooden ones need soaking to prevent burning. If you don’t have skewers, just make a stir-fry with the same ingredients!
How Do I Get the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is the key to juicy and tasty kabobs. Mix your pesto, olive oil, and lemon juice and let the chicken soak up those flavors. Even 30 minutes will help, but aim for 2 hours if you can. This makes a big difference!
- Combine pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add chicken cubes and mix until they’re coated well.
- Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 mins; longer for a deeper flavor.
Don’t rush the grilling! Cook over medium-high heat and turn the kabobs every few minutes to get a good char without drying the chicken out. Enjoy your meal!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini), drained
For the Marinade:
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden for 30 minutes)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ Chicken Kabobs recipe takes about 30 minutes for prep and marinating, and another 15 minutes for grilling. Plan for a total of about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large mixing bowl, stir together the pesto sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Then, add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them around until they are well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, you can let it sit in the fridge for up to 2 hours to soak in even more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill:
While your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. This will help the chicken cook evenly and give it those lovely grill marks!
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken has marinated, it’s time to assemble the kabobs! Take the skewers and start threading the chicken pieces onto them. Alternate the chicken with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls to make them colorful and appetizing. Try to pack them closely, but leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally. You’ll know they are ready when the chicken is completely cooked through and has a nice char, and the tomatoes are blistered—just perfect!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
When the kabobs are done grilling, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps to keep them juicy. If you have any remaining pesto sauce, drizzle it over the kabobs for an extra burst of flavor. Serve the kabobs warm and enjoy your tasty BBQ treat!
## FAQs for BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead of Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with bell peppers, zucchini, or onions for a delightful twist. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking. If using sturdier vegetables like bell peppers, they may take a little longer to cook, so consider par-cooking them for a few minutes before threading onto the skewers.
Can I Prep the Kabobs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the kabobs and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just make sure to cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, you can reheat them on the grill, in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through. Just be careful not to overcook them during reheating to maintain their juiciness!
What Kind of Skewers Should I Use?
You can use either wooden or metal skewers. If you opt for wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers are a great reusable option and don’t require soaking but handle with care as they can get very hot!
