Summer’s here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill and get cooking! One of our favorite ways to enjoy the great outdoors is with a delicious plate of chicken shish kabobs. Marinated to perfection in a variety of flavors, these skewers are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic combinations like lemon garlic and Mediterranean spiced, to more adventurous flavors like teriyaki pineapple and spicy harissa, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering chicken shish kabob recipes for you to try. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavors and techniques that will elevate your grilled chicken game. So grab your skewers and let’s get started!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the perfect blend of bright citrus flavors and savory garlic with these delectable skewers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread 4-5 marinated chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this colorful and aromatic dish, perfect for a quick dinner or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 4-6 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Shish Kabobs
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this tropical-inspired dish, perfect for a summer gathering or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken, pineapple, teriyaki sauce, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and pineapple onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions (optional).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Spicy Harissa Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grilled skewers with the bold flavors of North Africa! These Spicy Harissa Chicken Shish Kabobs combine tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a kick of spicy harissa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon harissa paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, harissa paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini to the marinade. Toss to coat.
4. Thread marinated ingredients onto metal skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these sweet and savory Honey Mustard Chicken Shish Kabobs! Marinated chicken, tender vegetables, and a hint of honey mustard make for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush skewers with remaining marinade and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the bold flavors of Greece with these tender and juicy chicken kabobs, marinated in a refreshing blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and herbs. Perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and oregano. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Glazed Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these sweet and savory BBQ glazed chicken shish kabobs, perfect for a summer gathering or quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken, onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the bowl; toss to coat with the glaze.
4. Thread 4-5 pieces of the mixture onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Moroccan-Inspired Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful and aromatic chicken skewers, infused with the warm spices of Morocco.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grilling game with these succulent and aromatic chicken skewers smothered in a rich garlic herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, parsley, and oregano.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic herb butter mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, turning occasionally.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Shish Kabobs
Thai Peanut Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Transform your outdoor gatherings into a culinary adventure with these flavorful Thai-inspired skewers, featuring tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and creamy peanut sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 8 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and ginger until smooth.
3. Add chicken, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and onion to the bowl; toss to coat with peanut sauce.
4. Thread 4-5 pieces of the chicken mixture onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with additional peanut sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Seasoned Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grilled skewers with the bold flavors of Jamaican jerk seasoning! This recipe combines succulent chicken, sweet peppers, and spicy onions for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken, onion, and bell peppers; toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, onion, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these smoky paprika chicken shish kabobs, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 large yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers.
5. Brush the tops of the kabobs with the remaining marinade.
6. Grill for 10-12 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Marinated Chicken Shish Kabobs
Pesto Marinated Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this unique twist on traditional shish kabobs, featuring pesto-marinated chicken and colorful vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Pesto (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Pesto, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread chicken, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini onto skewers.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Citrus Cilantro Chicken Shish Kabobs
Brighten up your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful and refreshing Citrus Cilantro Chicken Shish Kabobs. Marinated chicken, zesty citrus, and fresh cilantro come together in a perfect harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped red onion, 1 bell pepper, seeded and sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken, onion (if using), and bell pepper (if using) onto skewers.
4. Brush skewers with any remaining marinade. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Maple Sriracha Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grilled skewers with the sweet and spicy flavors of maple syrup and sriracha. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Your favorite vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, sriracha sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Rosemary Balsamic Chicken Shish Kabobs
Rosemary Balsamic Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Experience the flavors of Italy with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken, sweet rosemary, and tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the kabobs for 8-10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and honey.
7. Brush the glaze over the kabobs during the last minute of cooking.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tandoori-Style Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the flavors of India with this easy-to-make recipe for Tandoori-Style Chicken Shish Kabobs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
– 2 tsp tandoori masala powder
– 1 tsp garam masala powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, ghee or oil, tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Cook the kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve hot with basmati rice, naan bread, or your favorite Indian-inspired sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shish Kabobs
Savor the flavors of Italy with these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Shish Kabobs, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together garlic, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with additional olive oil if needed.
6. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Shish Kabobs
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
These mouthwatering kabobs are perfect for a summer barbecue or dinner party. Marinated in a sweet and tangy mixture of chili lime, the chicken is tender and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, hot sauce, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onions onto skewers.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with a squeeze of lime juice and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with these mouthwatering Cajun Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and creamy onions are perfectly seasoned with a blend of zesty spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning and olive oil. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, onion, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill with these mouthwatering chicken shish kabob recipes! From classic flavors like lemon garlic and honey mustard to international twists like Moroccan-inspired and Tandoori-style, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of marinades, spices, and sauces to choose from, you’ll never get bored with the same old flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping party appetizer, these 20 flavorful chicken shish kabob recipes are sure to please.
