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Loaded Grilled Chicken Kabobs Recipe with Caramelized Veggies Easy and Flavorful

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Juicy grilled chicken kabobs paired with caramelized bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Juice of half a lemon
  • 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
  • 1 medium yellow onion, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick half-moons
  • 8 cherry tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (to toss the veggies)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss well to coat all pieces evenly. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  2. While the chicken marinates, chop the bell pepper, onion, and zucchini into roughly uniform pieces. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl. Set aside.
  3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken cubes and vegetables alternately onto the skewers, leaving some space between pieces. Reserve the cherry tomatoes for last or add them toward the end of grilling.
  5. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 200°C). Lightly oil the grill pan surface if using.
  6. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking and caramelization. Add the cherry tomatoes during the last 3-4 minutes to soften slightly without bursting. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  7. Remove kabobs from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving.

Notes

Marinate chicken for at least 20 minutes for best flavor and tenderness. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked. Avoid overcrowding skewers to allow even cooking and caramelization. Rest kabobs after grilling to keep chicken juicy.

Nutrition

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