Description
Tender chicken and colorful vegetables are threaded onto skewers and cooked with a flavorful lemon basil garlic butter for a juicy and delicious family dinner. This Mediterranean-inspired recipe combines the fresh flavors of lemon, basil, and garlic with perfectly grilled or oven-baked chicken kabobs, making it a perfect healthy and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Chicken and Vegetables
- 700 g boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Lemon Basil Garlic Butter
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks with olive oil, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Toss the mixture well to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 20 minutes to infuse the flavors and tenderize the meat.
- Prepare the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables alternately onto skewers to ensure even cooking and a colorful presentation. Make sure the pieces are similar in size for uniform cooking.
- Grill the Kabobs: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12 to 15 minutes, turning every few minutes to cook evenly on all sides. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
- Oven Cooking Option: If using the oven, preheat it to 220°C (428°F). Place the skewers on a lined baking sheet and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, turning halfway through to brown all sides evenly.
- Make the Lemon Basil Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped basil, and a pinch of salt. Stir until well combined to create a fragrant and flavorful butter sauce.
- Brush and Serve: During the last few minutes of grilling or baking, generously brush the kabobs with the lemon basil garlic butter to enhance the flavor and add moisture. Serve the kabobs immediately with extra butter sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Chicken thighs stay especially juicy on the grill due to their higher fat content.
- Cut the chicken and vegetables into similarly sized pieces for even cooking on skewers.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to threading to prevent burning during cooking.
- Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F) to guarantee food safety.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
