These Easy BBQ Chicken Kabobs are perfect for your next grill party! Juicy chunks of chicken, colorful veggies, and a tasty BBQ sauce come together for a fun, handheld meal.
Picture this: a sunny day, friends gathered, and you flipping kabobs on the grill. It doesn’t get better than that! I love how quick they are to make. Just skewer, grill, and enjoy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness, but breasts work fine too! If you’re looking for a leaner option, try turkey breast or tofu for a vegetarian version.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and color. If you can’t find them, bell peppers or zucchini are great substitutes! They also grill nicely and offer a different texture.
Fresh Mozzarella: The creamy texture is a favorite! If you’re dairy-free, consider using vegan mozzarella or skip it altogether for a lighter kabob.
Basil Pesto: Homemade pesto is fantastic if you have the time! If you’re in a pinch, store-bought is still delicious. For a nut-free version, try sun-dried tomato paste instead of pesto.
How Do I Assemble Kabobs Without Them Falling Apart?
Assembling kabobs can be tricky, but it’s simple with the right steps! Here’s how to make sure your ingredients stay on the skewers during grilling:
- Start with a firm base; I recommend starting with a piece of chicken followed by a tomato, then mozzarella, and so on. This helps balance the weight.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece. This promotes even cooking.
- Use sturdy skewers—if you are using wooden ones, remember to soak them to prevent burning.
- When grilling, turn kabobs gently to avoid losing pieces. A BBQ spatula or tongs works well!
Easy BBQ Chicken Kabobs with Pesto, Cherry Tomatoes, and Mozzarella
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, for garnish
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 10-12 minutes of grilling. Plus, if you have time to marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours, it enhances the flavor significantly. So overall, plan for about 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on your marinating choice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
Begin by placing the cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add in the basil pesto, olive oil, a pinch of salt, and a bit of pepper. Toss everything together until the chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to let those flavors soak in.
2. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, fire up your grill! Aim for a medium-high heat so you can achieve perfectly grilled kabobs with a nice char.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken has finished marinating, it’s time to build your kabobs. Take your skewers and start threading them! Alternate between chicken, cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls. For example, place a piece of chicken first, follow with a tomato, then a mozzarella ball, and keep going until you fill the skewer. Give a little space between each item for even cooking.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Now it’s time for the fun part! Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through, with a nice char on the outside and the tomatoes to become soft and juicy.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute in the chicken! Then, arrange your kabobs on a serving platter. If you have any leftover pesto, drizzle it over the top for added flavor. Finally, garnish with some fresh parsley or basil leaves and enjoy your delicious creation!
These BBQ chicken kabobs are not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy them at your next gathering or family dinner!
FAQ for Easy BBQ Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix it up. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even red onions can add great flavor and color. Just cut them into similarly sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Know When the Chicken is Fully Cooked?
You can check the chicken’s doneness with a meat thermometer. It should read 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, make sure the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Additionally, assembled kabobs can be prepared a few hours ahead of grilling. Just cover them and keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on a skillet or in the microwave. For the best flavor, consider adding a little extra pesto or a splash of olive oil when reheating!
