There's nothing like the sweet and savory aroma of Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs sizzling on the grill to make any meal feel like a celebration. Tender chunks of marinated chicken, caramelized to perfection, paired with colorful, char-grilled vegetables, bring a burst of flavor to your plate.
I discovered this recipe during a summer cookout, and it quickly became a family favorite. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these kabobs are perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight meal. Ready to fire up the grill? Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Get ready to elevate your grilling game with this crowd-pleaser! These kabobs are as delicious as they are simple to make, offering a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors.
First, they’re quick and easy to prepare. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the chicken with flavor while you relax or prep your veggies.
Secondly, this recipe is incredibly healthy. With lean protein from the chicken and nutrient-packed veggies, these kabobs are a guilt-free option for any meal.
Another great feature is their versatility. Use your favorite vegetables or swap in tofu, shrimp, or beef to suit different preferences. Plus, you can make these indoors with a grill pan if outdoor grilling isn’t an option.
Finally, these kabobs are perfect for entertaining. They’re easy to eat, visually stunning, and a guaranteed hit with guests of all ages.
Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make these kabobs so irresistible.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of these Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the kabobs' perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky notes.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs are ideal. Thighs are juicier and more forgiving, but breasts work beautifully for leaner kabobs.
- Honey: The star of the marinade, honey adds a natural sweetness that caramelizes wonderfully on the grill. Opt for raw, local honey for the best flavor.
- Soy Sauce: Provides a savory, umami kick that balances the honey’s sweetness. Choose a low-sodium version if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Garlic & Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger add depth and a slight zing to the marinade. Don’t skimp on these aromatic powerhouses!
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes bring vibrant color and flavor. Feel free to get creative with your favorites.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil keeps everything moist and ensures even cooking on the grill.
Special Equipment
You’ll need skewers for this recipe. Bamboo skewers work well but should be soaked in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. Alternatively, use metal skewers for a reusable, eco-friendly option.
How to Make This Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Creating these kabobs is a straightforward process that even beginner cooks can master. Here’s how to make them step by step:
Start by preparing the marinade. In a medium bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup honey, ¼ cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger. Reserve a small portion of the marinade for basting later.
Next, cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks, about 1-1.5 inches each. Place the chicken in a resealable bag or shallow dish, pour in the marinade, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
While the chicken marinates, chop your vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking. Arrange them in colorful combinations to make your kabobs visually appealing.
Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating for variety. For example, start with a piece of chicken, followed by a chunk of zucchini, then a slice of bell pepper. Repeat until the skewer is full.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Storage Options
Got leftovers? These kabobs store wonderfully, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick snack.
- Refrigeration: Place the kabobs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Remove the skewers for easier storage.
- Freezing: To freeze, remove the chicken and veggies from the skewers and transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place the kabobs in a 350°F oven or heat them in a covered skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the chicken.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Protein Options: Swap the chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for a different take. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Vegetables: Try adding mushrooms, pineapple chunks, or asparagus tips for extra flavor and variety.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to the marinade for a little heat.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
- Indoor Cooking: If grilling isn’t possible, use a grill pan or broil the kabobs in the oven.
Experiment with combinations to find your favorite version of these kabobs. They’re the perfect canvas for culinary creativity!
Bring the flavors of summer grilling to your table any time of year with these Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just craving something deliciously different, this recipe is sure to impress. So grab your skewers and let the grilling begin!
PrintYummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe
This Honey Chicken Kabobs recipe is packed with flavor, combining tender chicken pieces with a sweet and tangy honey glaze. Perfect for grilling, these kabobs are a crowd-pleaser for backyard barbecues, weeknight dinners, or summer gatherings. Pair with fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- ¼ cup honey
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Assorted vegetables for kabobs (e.g., bell peppers, onions, zucchini)
- Skewers
Instructions
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, black pepper, and minced garlic.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Preheat grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grate.
- Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces for variety.
- Grill kabobs for 12-15 minutes, turning frequently, until chicken is fully cooked and vegetables are slightly charred. Brush with reserved marinade while grilling for added flavor.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Customize kabobs with your favorite veggies for added color and nutrition.
- Serve with rice or salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 kabob
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 520 mg
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