Are you a grilling enthusiast looking for some inspiration to spice up your summer barbecues? Look no further! Chicken shish kabobs are a classic and delicious option that can be elevated in countless ways. From tangy and herby to sweet and spicy, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering recipes to try.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world with international flavors like Mediterranean spiced, Thai peanut, and Tandoori-inspired chicken shish kabobs. We’ll also explore classic American flavors like lemon garlic and BBQ ranch. And don’t worry – there’s something for everyone, from spicy harissa to sweet chili lime. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Lemon Garlic Chicken Shish Kabobs
Lemon Garlic Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of zesty lemon and savory garlic in these mouthwatering chicken shish kabobs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 16-20 minutes
Mediterranean Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grill game with these flavorful and aromatic skewers, perfect for a summer evening.
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 lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Fresh parsley or oregano leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, cumin, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Place skewers on grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or oregano leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Shish Kabobs
Add a twist to traditional shish kabobs with the sweet and savory flavors of teriyaki sauce, pineapple, and chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or BBQ gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and 1 tablespoon of water. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken, pineapple, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush grill with oil to prevent sticking. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Harissa Chicken Shish Kabobs
Spicy Harissa Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful and spicy chicken skewers, infused with the bold flavors of harissa.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10-12 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 olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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 chicken, bell peppers, and harissa onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill the kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or salads.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your BBQ game with these sweet and tangy chicken shish kabobs, perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Place kabobs on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Chicken Shish Kabobs
Transform your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful Greek yogurt marinated chicken shish kabobs, perfect for a summer evening. Tender and juicy chicken breast is marinated in a refreshing blend of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
BBQ Ranch Chicken Shish Kabobs
Get ready to fire up your grill with this delicious twist on traditional shish kabobs! Tender chicken, flavorful ranch seasoning, and a tangy BBQ sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil and ranch seasoning. Add chicken, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Thread chicken, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper onto skewers, leaving space between each piece.
4. Brush BBQ sauce over the top of each kabob.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Shish Kabobs
Garlic Herb Butter Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Get ready to impress your guests with these flavorful and easy-to-make kabobs!
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, thyme, and paprika.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic herb butter mixture evenly onto the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chimichurri Chicken Shish Kabobs
Bring the flavors of Argentina to your backyard with these tender and juicy Chimichurri Chicken Shish Kabobs! Marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce, these kabobs are perfect for your next outdoor gathering.
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 fresh oregano, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, oregano, parsley, red wine vinegar, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and stir to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Blackened Chicken Shish Kabobs
Experience the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with these mouth-watering blackened chicken shish kabobs, smothered in a spicy and savory blend. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup blackening seasoning (such as Tony Chachere’s)
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic, and blackening seasoning.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated chicken, bell peppers, salt, and pepper onto skewers.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Shish Kabobs
A flavorful twist on traditional shish kabobs, this recipe combines the richness of peanut sauce with the savory flavors of chicken and Thai spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Chopped peanuts and scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the peanut sauce mixture.
4. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, 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 peanuts and scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Shish Kabobs
Savor the bold flavors of this Middle Eastern-inspired dish, featuring smoky paprika-spiced chicken, crispy vegetables, and a hint of cumin. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp smoky paprika
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoky paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread onion, bell peppers, and garlic onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place chicken pieces on the skewers, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
5. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides or enjoy as is!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Parmesan Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your grilled chicken game with these flavorful and easy-to-make kabobs, featuring the creamy goodness of pesto and the richness of parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken pieces.
3. Thread chicken, onion, garlic, and parmesan cheese 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 and slightly charred.
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. This recipe combines juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and bold seasonings for a memorable outdoor meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tbsp sriracha sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large onion, peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, sriracha sauce, and olive oil. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Alternate threading chicken, bell peppers, onion, and salt onto each skewer.
4. Brush grates with water and place skewers on the grill.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes per side or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tandoori Chicken Shish Kabobs
Transform your outdoor gatherings with the flavors of India! These Tandoori Chicken Shish Kabobs are a delicious and easy-to-make twist on traditional kebabs, featuring tender chicken marinated in a vibrant tandoori spice blend.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, tandoori masala powder, lemon juice, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush the skewers with vegetable oil and season with salt.
6. Grill the kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your backyard BBQs with this sweet and tangy take on traditional shish kabobs. Tender chicken, juicy vegetables, and a rich balsamic glaze come together in a flavorful and impressive dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and oregano.
4. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Brush balsamic glaze on kabobs during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Jerk Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with these flavorful Jerk Spiced Chicken Shish Kabobs, infused with the bold flavors of Jamaica. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or a fun gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large chunks
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large chunks
– 1 onion, cut into large chunks
– 8-10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Brush the jerk mixture evenly onto the chicken and vegetables.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Citrus Cilantro Chicken Shish Kabobs
Elevate your shish kabob game with the bright flavors of citrus and cilantro! This refreshing twist on traditional chicken kabobs is perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread chicken, onion, and bell pepper onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with remaining marinade and sprinkle with cilantro.
6. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rosemary Garlic Chicken Shish Kabobs
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with these aromatic and savory chicken shish kabobs, infused with the herbs of rosemary and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the tops with chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Shish Kabobs
Sweet Chili Lime Chicken Shish Kabobs Recipe
Transform your backyard BBQs with these flavorful skewers that combine the sweetness of honey, the spiciness of chili flakes, and the brightness of lime. Perfect for a summer gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, lime juice, and chili flakes.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Thread 2-3 chicken pieces, some cilantro leaves, and a slice of lime onto each skewer.
5. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill with these mouth-watering chicken shish kabob recipes! This collection of 20 flavorful dishes offers something for every taste, from classic Mediterranean-inspired flavors to spicy and smoky twists. Try Lemon Garlic Chicken Shish Kabobs, Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken Shish Kabobs, or Spicy Harissa Chicken Shish Kabobs, among many others. Each recipe is carefully crafted with a focus on bold flavors and tender, grilled chicken. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just looking for a new twist on traditional BBQ, these recipes are sure to impress!