Gather ‘round, friends, because today I’m sharing a recipe that has made many appearances at my family gatherings — Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs! These little skewers of joy never fail to impress and are such a breeze to whip up. I love how versatile they are. Pair them with rice, toss them over a salad, dip them in your favorite sauce, or just devour them as they are — you seriously can’t go wrong!
I remember the first time I made these kabobs for my family. I thought it’d be a super casual dinner, but they had no idea what was coming! The aroma of marinated chicken wafting through the kitchen had everyone flocking to the table, forks ready. Ever since that magic moment, it’s been tradition to make them during our weekend get-togethers. Plus, they’re oven-baked, which means less mess and more time to hang out with my loved ones – win-win!
What’s in Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs?
Let’s break down the ingredients. Each one plays its part in creating the delightful flavors you’ll savor in every bite:
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I like to use skinless, boneless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes. It bakes up tender and juicy.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and richness to the marinade. Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for a nice flavor boost.
Lemon Juice: A splash of acidity brightens up the dish! Freshly squeezed is ideal, but bottled will work in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick. I find it easier than peeling and chopping garlic when I’m short on time!
Onion Powder: A little hint of sweetness and depth without the fuss. Plus, it blends beautifully into the marinade.
Smoked Paprika: This brings a lovely smokiness that adds character. I adore how it dances with the other flavors!
Dried Oregano: A classic herb that lends a Mediterranean vibe to the kabobs.
Salt and Black Pepper: Simple seasoning, but absolutely essential for enhancing the flavors.
Fresh Parsley: This is purely for garnish, but it adds a pretty splash of color and freshness right before serving!
Is Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs Good for You?
Absolutely! These kabobs are not just delicious, but packed with good-for-you ingredients.
Chicken Breast: Being a lean source of protein, it helps with muscle building and keeps you feeling full longer.
Olive Oil: Loaded with healthy fats, it’s heart-friendly and great for overall health. Just remember to use it in moderation!
Lemon Juice: Not only does it add flavor, but it’s also rich in vitamin C, bolstering your immune system.
While they’re mostly healthy, just keep an eye on portion sizes if you’re following a strict diet. Pair them with plenty of fresh veggies, and you’ll have yourself a balanced meal!
Ingredients
– 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves: 4*
How to Make Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup. Trust me on this one; it saves you so much scrubbing time later!
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Marinating in this mixture is like giving your chicken a flavor vacation!
3. Add the cubed chicken to this flavorful concoction and toss until every piece is well coated. For the best flavor, let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to 1 hour.
4. If you’re using wooden skewers (which I really love for the aesthetic), soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent them from burning while baking. If you’re all about metal skewers, skip this step and you’re good to go!
5. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking. It’s like fashioning little edible artworks!
6. Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway through to get that nice golden brown on both sides.
7. When your kitchen is filled with that delightful aroma, and the chicken is cooked through, remove the kabobs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Trust me, the wait will be worth it!
8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, rice, or salad. Dig in and enjoy every bite of this deliciousness!
Your Kabob Adventure Awaits!
I wholeheartedly encourage you to try these Oven-Baked Chicken Kabobs! Whether you’re having a cozy night in, planning a family gathering, or just need a quick weeknight dinner option, these kabobs won’t disappoint. Plus, they’re super fun to make, and you can change it up by adding veggies to the skewers if you want! If you do try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Happy cooking, my friends!
