Experience the ultimate in convenience and flavor with our Baked Chicken Skewers! Featuring succulent, perfectly seasoned chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions threaded onto skewers, then baked until tender and juicy – all ready in under an hour. This recipe is your secret weapon for quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious weeknight dinners.
Effortless & Flavorful Oven-Baked Chicken Skewers
There’s something universally appealing about shish kabobs, and these Baked Chicken Skewers are an absolute family favorite in our home! The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its mouth-watering taste but also in its incredible simplicity and adaptability. I frequently prepare a large batch of these on the weekend, transforming them into a hassle-free solution for those hectic weeknights when dinner needs to be on the table in a flash. Imagine having dinner mostly prepped, just waiting for a quick bake – it significantly reduces mealtime stress! Plus, scaling this recipe up is a breeze; whether you need to feed a small family or a larger gathering, you can easily double or triple the ingredients and cook in batches as needed.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Skewers
Beyond being deliciously easy, these oven-baked chicken skewers offer a multitude of benefits that make them a standout dish. They are inherently healthy, packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, offering a balanced meal without heavy oils or complex preparations. Baking ensures the chicken remains incredibly tender and moist, while the vegetables soften to perfection, absorbing all the aromatic seasonings. Compared to grilling, baking provides a more consistent, hands-off cooking experience, especially convenient when outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Clean-up is also a breeze, especially if you line your baking sheets with parchment paper, making them perfect for busy cooks looking for minimum fuss and maximum flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Skewers
Absolutely! Air frying is a fantastic alternative for achieving beautifully cooked skewers with a slightly crisper finish. Prepare your skewers exactly as you would for baking. Then, arrange them in your air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6-8 minutes, then carefully rotate the skewers and air fry for another 6-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Yes, grilling these skewers adds a wonderful smoky char and is a popular method. Assemble the skewers just as described. Preheat your grill to a medium-high heat. Place the skewers directly on the grill grates and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked. As with any poultry, verify that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) using a reliable meat thermometer for food safety.
These versatile skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a light and refreshing meal, consider a crisp green salad tossed with a vinaigrette. Pasta salad, quinoa salad, or couscous offer heartier options. Roasted potatoes, rice pilaf, or even a simple side of steamed vegetables also complement the flavors beautifully, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Our recipe already includes a colorful medley of bell peppers, zucchini, and onion, but the possibilities for customization are endless! Consider adding cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, chunks of eggplant, or slices of yellow squash for even more variety in flavor and texture. Root vegetables like par-boiled potatoes or sweet potatoes can also be added, though they might require slightly longer cooking times or a quick pre-cook.
If you are using wooden skewers, soaking them is an essential step to prevent them from burning or catching fire in the oven. Submerge them in water for at least 20-30 minutes before threading your ingredients. If you are using metal skewers, this step is entirely unnecessary as metal does not burn. Just remember to handle metal skewers with extreme caution when removing them from the oven, as they will be extremely hot – always use oven mitts!
Absolutely, these skewers are perfect for meal prepping! You can assemble the skewers earlier in the day and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. For an even deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken for a solid 2-3 hours before assembling. If you plan to marinate the chicken overnight, it’s advisable to omit the lemon juice from the marinade initially. The acidity in lemon juice can start to “cook” and break down the chicken if left to marinate for too long, potentially altering its texture. You can add the lemon juice just before assembling and baking.
Cooked chicken skewers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. They are excellent for quick lunch reheats or another easy dinner, as they are already perfectly portioned and ready to go.
Key Ingredients for Succulent Chicken Skewers
The magic of these baked chicken skewers lies in the quality and combination of fresh ingredients and robust seasonings. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is essential:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into uniform 1-inch chunks to ensure even cooking. While breasts are leaner, you can certainly use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor and often more tender result. Just be aware that dark meat might require a slightly longer cooking time. Always use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Vibrant Vegetables – Zucchini, Red Bell Pepper, Yellow Bell Pepper, Red Onion: This colorful combination not only adds visual appeal but also a fantastic array of textures and flavors. Feel free to customize with your favorites! Cubed eggplant, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even chunks of pineapple for a sweet and savory twist, would all be wonderful additions.
- High-Quality Olive Oil: Essential for coating the chicken and vegetables, helping the seasonings adhere, promoting even cooking, and preventing sticking. It also contributes to the rich flavor profile and keeps everything moist.
- Fresh Garlic Cloves: Minced fresh garlic offers an unparalleled aromatic depth that truly elevates the dish. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh is always recommended for the best flavor.
- Fresh Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens all the flavors and adds a subtle tang. It also acts as a natural tenderizer for the chicken. Avoid bottled lemon juice; its concentrated flavor won’t do this recipe justice. Stick to fresh-squeezed for that vibrant zing.
- Flavorful Seasonings – Paprika, Italian Seasoning, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder: This blend creates a wonderfully savory and herbaceous profile that complements the chicken and vegetables perfectly. Paprika adds a lovely color and mild, sweet pepper flavor. Italian seasoning brings in a medley of classic herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. Feel free to experiment with other seasoning blends like zesty lemon pepper, smoky chipotle, or spicy Cajun seasoning to tailor the skewers to your taste.
Mastering the Art of Baked Chicken Skewers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these delectable chicken skewers is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result every time:
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers and Veggies. If using wooden skewers, immerse them in water for at least 20 minutes. This crucial step prevents them from burning during baking. While the skewers soak, take this time to wash and uniformly chop all your vegetables – zucchini, bell peppers, and onion – into roughly 1-inch pieces. Uniformity is key for even cooking.
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheets. Preheat your oven to a steady 400°F (200°C). Line two standard 9×13-inch baking sheets or one large 13×18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. This will ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking. If you don’t have parchment paper, a light spray of nonstick cooking spray will also work.
Step 3: Combine and Season. In a large mixing bowl (or a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag for easy mixing), combine your cubed chicken, chopped zucchini, bell peppers, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and add the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, paprika, Italian seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Toss everything thoroughly, ensuring every piece of chicken and vegetable is evenly coated with the aromatic marinade. This step is vital for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 4: Assemble the Skewers. Retrieve your soaked wooden skewers. Begin to alternate the marinated chicken chunks and various vegetables onto each skewer. Aim for a balanced distribution of ingredients and avoid packing them too tightly, which can hinder even cooking. Place the assembled skewers onto your prepared baking sheets, leaving a little space between each to allow for proper air circulation.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection. Transfer the baking sheets to your preheated oven. Bake for approximately 12-15 minutes. The precise cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the size of your chicken and vegetable pieces. The most important indicator of doneness is the internal temperature of the chicken. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) and that the juices run clear. Once cooked, remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley (if desired) for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Perfectly Baked Chicken Skewers
- Uniform Cuts: Ensure your chicken and vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces (approx. 1-inch chunks). This guarantees everything cooks evenly at the same rate.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Whether on the skewers or the baking sheet, avoid overcrowding. Give ingredients space to cook rather than steam, promoting better browning and flavor development.
- Marinate for Flavor: While quick, a minimum of 30 minutes to an hour of marinating time can significantly enhance the flavor of your chicken.
- The Thermometer is Your Friend: A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure chicken is safely cooked to 165°F (74°C) without over-drying.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after baking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.
Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you loved these Baked Chicken Skewers, explore more of our fantastic chicken and skewer recipes designed for easy, flavorful meals:
- Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
- Best Grilled Chicken Marinade
- Grilled Honey Lime Chicken Skewers
- Grilled Italian Lemon Garlic Chicken
- Italian Sub Skewers
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites
- Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites
- Garlic Butter Chicken and Potatoes
Baked Chicken Skewers
Deliciously seasoned chicken and fresh vegetables threaded on skewers and baked to perfection in the oven.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Inactive Time: 20 minutes (for soaking skewers)
Total Time: 42 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Brandie Skibinski
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 wooden skewers (or metal)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed into 1-inch chunks
- 1 zucchini, cut into ¼ inch slices
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ½ lemon, juiced (freshly squeezed)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Place the 8 wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent them from burning in the oven. Skip this step if using metal skewers.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two 9×13-inch baking sheets or one large 13×18-inch baking sheet with parchment paper, or spray lightly with nonstick cooking spray.
In a large bowl (or a gallon-sized resealable bag), combine the 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed into 1-inch chunks), 1 zucchini (cut into ¼ inch slices), 1 red bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces), 1 yellow bell pepper (cut into 1-inch pieces), 1 cup red onion (cut into 1-inch pieces), ½ cup olive oil, 3 minced garlic cloves, ½ lemon (juiced), 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon garlic powder.
Stir the mixture thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are evenly coated with the seasonings and oil.
Remove the soaked skewers from the water. Begin to alternate the chicken and vegetable pieces onto the skewers, ensuring a balanced distribution.
Place the assembled skewers onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving a small space between each.
Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken juices run clear and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
Sprinkle with 1 Tablespoon chopped parsley (optional) before serving. Enjoy your tender and flavorful baked chicken skewers!
Notes
- For ingredient substitutions, common questions, or alternative cooking methods (like grilling or air frying), please refer to the “Frequently Asked Questions” and ingredient list sections above.
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Calories: 422kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 26g | Fat: 30g | Sodium: 723mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 5g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a dietician or nutritionist, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories and other nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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