Ah, let me tell you about the time I first tried Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs. It was one of those beautiful summer evenings where the sun was just starting to set, casting a warm amber glow over everything. My family and I had gathered for a BBQ, and my uncle decided to whip up these kabobs on the grill. I coudn’t help but hover by the grill with my plate ready, the aroma of zesty lemon and smoky grilled chicken wafting through the air was simply irresistible. Now, I’m sure you can imagine how quickly they disappeared!
The combination of tender chicken with the zesty, peppery flavors is what makes this dish a family favorite. Plus, it’s super easy to make—perfect for entertaining friends or just treating yourself on a quiet night in. So, let’s not waste any time; I’m going to share my go-to recipe for these scrumptious Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs!
What’s in Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs?
Let’s break down the star players of this delicious dish:
Chicken Breast: The foundation of our kabobs! I use 2 pounds of chicken breast cut into bite-sized cubes for that tender texture.
Olive Oil: This is our flavor booster and helps keep the chicken juicy. A good extra virgin olive oil really elevates the dish.
Fresh Lemons: We’ll need juice from 2 lemons and the zest from 1. The lemon adds that delightful tanginess that makes this dish shine!
Lemon Pepper Seasoning: This pre-mixed seasoning combines all the citrusy and peppery goodness. I love using a quality brand for a balanced flavor.
Garlic and Onion Powder: These two pantry staples add depth and a nice aromatic quality. You really can’t go wrong with a touch of garlic!
Bell Peppers: I like to use a colorful mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers. They add sweetness, crunch, and so much color to our kabobs!
Red Onion: The slightly sweet and bold flavor of red onion contrasts beautifully with our other ingredients, creating a well-rounded taste.
Fresh Parsley: This is our garnish and it adds a nice pop of freshness right before serving.
Is Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs Good for You?
Absolutely! These kabobs are a healthy and balanced option for dinner, offering lean protein paired with lots of colorful veggies.
Chicken Breast: A fantastic source of protein, it helps build and repair muscles while being low in fat. Choosing skinless chicken makes it even healthier.
Colorful Bell Peppers: Naturally rich in vitamins A and C, these peppers not only provide a nutritional boost but also add beautiful colors to your plate.
Now, a little heads up—while the olive oil is healthy, keep an eye on portions. And for those who are sensitive to sodium, consider using a low-sodium lemon pepper seasoning.
Ingredients for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs (Serves 4-6)
– 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 2 lemons
– Zest of 1 lemon
– 2 teaspoons lemon pepper seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt to taste
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
– 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
– 1 red onion, cut into chunks
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs?
1. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, lemon pepper seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Mix it well—you want that marinade to be cohesive and flavorful!
2. Toss the cubed chicken into the marinade, ensuring every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you can, give it up to 2 hours. Trust me, the longer, the better.
3. Preheat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat.
4. If using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Now for some fun—thread the marinated chicken and the peppers and onion onto the skewers, alternating as you go. Get creative!
6. Once your grill is ready, place those kabobs on it and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender.
7. Remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Be patient; this will help the juices redistribute!
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving, and serve those delicious kabobs warm alongside your favorite sides like rice, salad, or pita bread. Enjoy each bite!
Serve It Up Right!
Here are some extra tips and variations you might enjoy:
– Feel free to swap out the veggies! Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms would be fantastic additions.
– If you want to spice things up, add some cayenne pepper to the marinade for a kick!
– Pair these kabobs with a cooling tzatziki sauce or a fresh cucumber salad for a wonderful contrast of flavors.
I hope you find joy in making these Lemon Pepper Chicken Kabobs as much as I do. They’re perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even a cozy evening in. I would absolutely love to hear how they turn out for you; so don’t hold back—share your experience!
