These tender chicken kabobs in the oven are juicy, flavorful, and simple to make with basic ingredients. You don’t need a grill to enjoy perfectly cooked chicken kabobs, this oven recipe brings all the same delicious results indoors. With a quick homemade marinade, chicken breast pieces are infused with flavor and baked on skewers for easy serving.
Whether you’re cooking for dinner or meal prepping ahead, these juicy chicken kabobs are a go-to option for busy weeknights. It’s an easy recipe that delivers perfectly seasoned, oven baked chicken kabobs with minimal effort.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
These tender chicken kabobs in the oven require simple ingredients to create juicy, flavorful results every time:
For the Chicken Kabobs:
• 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch chicken pieces
• 1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional for chicken and veggies)
• 1 small red onion, cut into chunks (optional)
• 8-10 wooden skewers or metal skewers
For the Marinade:
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
This chicken marinade helps create juicy chicken kabobs with bold, savory flavor. You can swap in chicken thighs for extra tenderness, or add veggies to make colorful chicken skewers.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make tender chicken kabobs in the oven with juicy, flavorful results:
Syep 1: Prepare the Chicken and Marinade
• Cut the chicken into even-sized cubes, about 1.5 inches each.
• In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
• Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 8 hours for extra flavor.
Step 2: Soak the Skewers
• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
• Thread the chicken onto the skewers, alternating with bell peppers and onions if desired. Leave a little space between each chicken piece for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Chicken Kabobs
• Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Place the kabobs on a foil-lined baking sheet or rack.
• Bake chicken kabobs for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 5: Optional Broil for Extra Color
• Switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes to add light charring and extra flavor.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
• Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy juicy chicken kabobs straight from the oven!
Pro Tips and Variations
These tips ensure your chicken kabobs in the oven turn out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time:
Pro Tips for the Best Kabobs
• Use Boneless Chicken: Both boneless skinless chicken breasts and chicken thighs work well, but chicken thighs stay extra juicy.
• Cut Even Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform cubes so the chicken pieces cook evenly.
• Soak Wooden Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning in the oven.
• Marinate for Flavor: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful your kabobs will be. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to 8 hours is best.
• Check Internal Temperature: Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe, fully cooked kabobs.
Tasty Variations to Try
• Add Veggies: Alternate chicken and vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini on the skewers for a colorful meal.
• Try Different Marinades: Swap the classic chicken marinade for BBQ sauce, teriyaki, or Greek yogurt marinades for variety.
• Chicken Thigh Kabobs: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra tender, juicy kabobs.
• Grill Option: If you prefer, you can grill the kabobs outdoors for a smoky flavor using the same marinade.
Serving Suggestions
These tender chicken kabobs in the oven pair perfectly with a variety of sides for an easy, satisfying meal:
Best Ways to Serve:
• Serve with warm rice, couscous, or quinoa for a complete dinner.
• Pair your chicken kabobs with a crisp green salad, tzatziki, or hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Add roasted veggies, grilled corn, or a side of garlic bread for extra comfort.
• For lighter options, serve your chicken skewers with fresh veggies and a yogurt-based dipping sauce.
• You can also remove the chicken pieces from the skewers and use them in wraps, pitas, or salads.
These juicy chicken kabobs are ideal for family dinners, BBQs, or meal prep—they store well and reheat easily. Enjoy flavorful chicken straight from the oven or in your favorite recipes.
Conclusion
Making tender chicken kabobs in the oven is quick, easy, and delivers juicy, flavorful results every time. With simple ingredients and a homemade marinade, you can enjoy perfectly cooked chicken kabobs without firing up the grill. Whether you use boneless skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs, these oven baked chicken kabobs are ideal for weeknight dinners, parties, or meal prep. Once you learn how to bake chicken kabobs properly, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite for delicious, hassle-free meals.
Chicken Kabobs In The Oven
Ingredients
Kabob Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs cut into 1.5-inch pieces
- 1 large bell pepper cut into chunks, optional
- 1 small red onion cut into chunks, optional
Marinade Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice fresh squeezed
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into cubes and place in a large bowl. Whisk together the marinade ingredients and pour over the chicken. Toss to coat and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Thread the chicken and optional veggies onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra color, switch the oven to broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Let the kabobs rest briefly, then serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Total Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Vitamin A: 4% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 15% Daily Value
FAQs
How long does it take for kabobs to cook in the oven?
Chicken kabobs in the oven take about 20-25 minutes at 425°F. For extra color, you can broil them for the last 2-3 minutes.
What temperature should chicken kabobs be cooked at?
Bake chicken kabobs at 425°F for juicy, flavorful results. Always check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
How do I know when chicken kabobs are done?
The chicken is done when it’s no longer pink in the center, juices run clear, and the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Do you turn kebabs in the oven?
Yes, always turn the kabobs halfway through cooking. This helps cook the chicken pieces evenly and adds nice color to all sides.
What is the trick to cooking kabobs?
The trick is to marinate the chicken for flavor, cut the chicken evenly, soak wooden skewers, and preheat the oven for consistent cooking. Finishing under the broiler adds a grilled look without using a grill.
