Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers
Highlighted under: Seasonal Flavor Journey
I absolutely love making Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers in the summer! They are so easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables grilled to perfection is always a hit at my gatherings. Plus, I enjoy customizing them with my favorite vegetables and adjusting the marinade to my taste. Whether it's a sunny day in the backyard or a cozy evening inside, these skewers make for a delightful meal that everyone eagerly looks forward to.
When I first tried making these Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers, I was amazed at how easy it was to create such a delicious dish. The marinade really brings out the savory flavor of the chicken, while the veggies add a fresh crunch. One of my best tips is to soak the skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Since then, I've experimented with different vegetable combinations—zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are my favorites. It’s always fun to see how the flavors blend together as everything grills. Cooking them over medium-high heat helps ensure the chicken stays juicy while adding that perfect char flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Juicy chicken paired with vibrant, grilled vegetables
- Customizable with your favorite seasonal vegetables
- Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy evenings
- Perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners
Choosing the Right Ingredients
When preparing Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers, the quality of your ingredients shines through in the final dish. Opt for fresh, in-season vegetables, which not only enhance flavor but also add vibrant colors that make your skewers visually appealing. For the chicken, select skinless, boneless breast meat for a lean option that cooks evenly. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work wonderfully too, contributing a juicier texture after grilling.
Don't hesitate to customize your vegetable choices based on your personal preferences or what you have available. Bell peppers, zucchini, and onion are classic favorites, but alternatives like mushrooms, asparagus, or even chunks of pineapple can offer exciting flavors. Just be sure to cut everything into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
Perfecting the Grilling Technique
Grilling skewers requires some attention to heat management. Preheating your grill to medium-high is key; this generally means a temperature range of 375°F to 450°F. When placing the skewers on the grill, ensure there is enough space between them for proper air circulation, which helps achieve that coveted char without steaming the ingredients.
When grilling, watch closely for visual cues. The chicken should register at least 165°F internally, and veggies are perfectly tender when they’ve softened with slightly caramelized edges. Aim to turn the skewers every 3–4 minutes to promote even cooking and to prevent burning. If you notice flare-ups, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create delicious Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers:
For the Skewers
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start assembling your skewers!
Instructions
Follow these steps to create your Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers:
Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Marinate the Chicken
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring it's well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they are soaked in water before grilling.
Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and veggies are tender.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with a side of your choice.
Enjoy your delicious and vibrant barbecue skewers! They are perfect for sharing.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add spices or herbs to the marinade for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To streamline your meal prep, consider marinating the chicken a few hours or even the night before you plan to grill. This not only saves time but allows the flavors of the marinade to penetrate the meat deeply, enhancing its taste. If you're preparing for a gathering, you can assemble the skewers ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator, and grill just before serving.
Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, although grilling them briefly will help restore that delicious charred flavor. You might even serve the leftovers cold in a salad for a refreshing twist.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers pair beautifully with side dishes that complement their smoky flavors. A light, tangy coleslaw or a crisp garden salad provides a refreshing contrast. For a more substantial meal, serve them alongside garlic bread or couscous infused with herbs to round out the plate.
Don’t forget about dipping sauces! A zesty ranch or yogurt-based sauce can elevate the skewers, providing an additional layer of flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, whip up a spicy chimichurri or a bright mango salsa to really impress your guests.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any vegetables you enjoy, such as mushrooms, asparagus, or even pineapple.
→ How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
→ What should I serve with these skewers?
They pair well with a fresh salad, rice, or quinoa for a complete meal.
→ Can I grill these skewers indoors?
Yes, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or even bake them in the oven at 400°F.
Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers
I absolutely love making Barbecue Chicken & Veggie Skewers in the summer! They are so easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken and fresh vegetables grilled to perfection is always a hit at my gatherings. Plus, I enjoy customizing them with my favorite vegetables and adjusting the marinade to my taste. Whether it's a sunny day in the backyard or a cozy evening inside, these skewers make for a delightful meal that everyone eagerly looks forward to.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Seasonal Flavor Journey
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Skewers
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 medium onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Wooden or metal skewers
For the Marinade
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring it's well coated. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and veggies.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they are soaked in water before grilling.
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 12–15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and veggies are tender.
Remove from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with a side of your choice.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to mix and match the vegetables based on your preferences or what’s in season. You can also add spices or herbs to the marinade for extra flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 28g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 25g