Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these BBQ Chicken Kabobs! Every time I make them, it feels like a mini celebration right in my backyard. There’s something magical about skewering juicy chunks of chicken, sweet cherry tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella, then throwing them on the grill to get those beautiful char marks. The scent wafting through the air is practically irresistible.
I remember the first time I hosted a summer cookout and decided to whip these up. Friends gathered around the grill, and as soon as I pulled the kabobs off the heat, I felt like a rock star. Everyone was crowding around, eager to grab a plate! Now, these kabobs are my go-to whenever I want to impress my friends or just enjoy a cozy night in with my family. Brace yourself—these kabobs are about to become your new favorite too!
What’s in BBQ Chicken Kabobs?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! Chicken breasts are lean and perfect for grilling. Make sure to cut them into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
Cherry tomatoes: Sweet and juicy, they add a burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken. Plus, their bright color makes the kabobs look absolutely gorgeous!
Pesto sauce: This fragrant sauce is a game changer. It infuses the chicken with delicious basil flavor, and who doesn’t love a little zing in their food?
Olive oil: A little drizzle is key for keeping the chicken moist and helping it develop a nice crust on the grill. I always opt for extra virgin olive oil for that rich taste.
Salt and pepper: Simple but essential! A sprinkle will enhance all the flavors and ensure the yum factor is sky-high.
Skewers: Whether you’re using wooden or metal, they’re a must! I personally lean towards metal skewers because they are reusable and can hold heavier ingredients without bending.
Fresh parsley or basil: These are optional but highly recommended! A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving gives a lovely finish and a fresh taste.
Is BBQ Chicken Kabobs Good for You?
Let’s dive into the health benefits of these kabobs.
Chicken: Packed with lean protein, it’s great for muscle building and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, it’s pretty low in calories compared to other protein sources.
Pesto: Made primarily from basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, it can offer health benefits, including antioxidants and healthy fats. Just watch the portion size as it can be calorie-dense!
Cherry tomatoes: These little gems are low in calories and high in vitamins A and C. They’re fantastic for skin health and immune support.
However, while everything in moderation is key, be mindful of the olive oil and pesto quantities if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes
– 1 cup mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Skewers (wooden or metal)
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
This recipe serves about 4, depending on your guests’ appetites!
How to Make BBQ Chicken Kabobs?
1. **Prepare the Skewers:** If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. If you opted for metal skewers, you can proceed straight to assembling those kabobs!
2. **Marinate the Chicken:** Grab a mixing bowl and combine the cubed chicken with pesto sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Give that chicken a good toss so that it’s well-coated in the marinade. Cover and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours if you’re feeling fancy. Trust me, the longer, the better!
3. **Assemble the Kabobs:** Now for the fun part! Take your skewers and start threading the marinated chicken pieces, alternating with cherry tomatoes and mozzarella balls. Aim for 3-4 pieces of chicken between each tomato and mozzarella ball.
4. **Preheat the Grill:** Start heating that bad boy up to medium-high.
5. **Grill the Kabobs:** Place those colorful skewers on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally until the chicken is cooked through (internal temp should hit 165°F). You’ll want those tomatoes to soften and the mozzarella to get all melty!
6. **Serve and Garnish:** Once the kabobs are perfectly grilled, take them off the grill and let your guests know dinner’s served! You could even drizzle them with a little extra pesto and sprinkle some fresh parsley or basil on top.
Elevate Your Kabob Game!
Here are a few fun ideas to make your kabobs even more exciting:
– **Add Color:** Feel free to throw on some bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie boost.
– **Spices & Marinades:** For a twist, try marinating the chicken in lemon juice or yogurt-based marinades before the pesto for added flavor.
– **Serve with Dipping Sauce:** Try a side of tangy ranch or a zesty lemon aioli for added flavor.
I hold these BBQ Chicken Kabobs near and dear to my heart, and I just know you’ll love them just as much! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe. After you’ve whipped them up, drop me a line and let me know how they turned out. Happy grilling, friends!
