There’s something special about food on a stick. It’s fun, portable, and perfect for summer cookouts or quick family dinners. Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs take the classic skewer to the next level with a sweet and savory marinade that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking to spice up your weekly menu, these kabobs are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love Honey Chicken Kabobs
Honey chicken kabobs are more than just delicious—they’re incredibly versatile and easy to make. The marinade infuses the chicken and veggies with a burst of flavor while keeping them juicy and tender on the grill. Plus, they’re packed with vibrant colors and a mix of textures, making them as visually appealing as they are tasty.
Ingredients for Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs
Here’s everything you’ll need to create these flavorful kabobs:
Marinade Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
Honey | ⅓ cup |
Soy Sauce | ⅓ cup |
Vegetable Oil | ¼ cup |
Ground Black Pepper | ¼ tsp |
Kabob Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
Chicken Breast Halves | 8 (skinless, boneless) | Cut into 1-inch cubes |
Small Onions | 5 | Cut into 2-inch pieces |
Red Bell Peppers | 2 | Cut into 2-inch pieces |
Garlic Cloves | 2 | Lightly smashed |
Bamboo Skewers | 12 (or as needed) | Soaked in water for 30 minutes |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient | Value |
Calories | 310 |
Protein | 28g |
Carbohydrates | 15g |
Fat | 14g |
Sodium | 750mg |
Fiber | 2g |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs
1. Prepare the Marinade
- In a large glass bowl, whisk together ⅓ cup honey, ⅓ cup soy sauce, ¼ cup vegetable oil, and ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper.
- Pour ¼ cup of the marinade into a small jar, seal, and set it aside to use while grilling.
2. Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables
- Add the chicken cubes, onions, red bell peppers, and garlic cloves to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill
- Preheat an outdoor grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Kabobs
- Remove the chicken and vegetables from the marinade, discarding the leftover marinade in the bowl.
- Thread the chicken and vegetables alternately onto the soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Kabobs
- Place the kabobs on the preheated grill.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning frequently and brushing with the reserved marinade. The chicken is done when it’s nicely browned and no longer pink in the center.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Transfer the kabobs to a serving platter. Serve them hot, straight from the grill, and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions for Honey Chicken Kabobs
Honey chicken kabobs are versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes:
- Rice Pilaf: The slightly sweet kabobs go beautifully with a fluffy rice pilaf.
- Grilled Vegetables: Double down on the grill with zucchini, asparagus, or corn.
- Garden Salad: A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the kabobs.
- Pita Bread: Serve with warm pita and a side of hummus for a Mediterranean twist.
Tips for Perfect Honey Chicken Kabobs
- Soak the Skewers: Prevent burning by soaking bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before threading.
- Cut Even Pieces: Make sure the chicken and vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Leave a little space between pieces on the skewer to allow heat to circulate.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Brush Frequently: Basting the kabobs with reserved marinade adds flavor and helps achieve a caramelized glaze.
Creative Variations of Honey Chicken Kabobs
1. Pineapple Honey Chicken Kabobs
Add pineapple chunks for a tropical twist. The sweetness of the pineapple pairs perfectly with the honey marinade.
2. Spicy Honey Chicken Kabobs
Mix ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes into the marinade for a spicy kick.
3. Teriyaki Honey Kabobs
Replace soy sauce with teriyaki sauce for a deeper, umami flavor.
4. Mediterranean-Inspired Kabobs
Add cherry tomatoes and zucchini to the skewers, and serve with tzatziki sauce.
5. Vegan Kabobs
Swap the chicken with firm tofu or mushrooms and follow the same marinade and grilling process.
How to Store and Reheat Honey Chicken Kabobs
- Refrigeration: Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze the grilled kabobs in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm the kabobs on a grill or in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through.
FAQs About Honey Chicken Kabobs
1. Can I bake the kabobs instead of grilling?
Yes, bake the kabobs at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, turning once halfway through.
2. What can I use instead of chicken?
You can use shrimp, beef, tofu, or even firm fish like salmon for this recipe.
3. Is there a substitute for soy sauce?
Coconut aminos or tamari are great substitutes for soy sauce, especially for gluten-free options.
4. How do I keep the kabobs from sticking to the grill?
Lightly oil the grill grates and ensure the kabobs are coated with marinade to prevent sticking.
5. Can I make these kabobs ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the kabobs up to a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill.
6. How do I avoid overcooking the chicken?
Turn the kabobs frequently and use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F without drying out.
Why You Should Try Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs
Honey chicken kabobs are a true crowd-pleaser. They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and customizable to suit any preference. Whether you’re hosting a party or cooking for your family, these kabobs are guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied.
Conclusion: Grill Your Way to Flavorful Perfection
With their sweet and savory marinade, tender chicken, and colorful vegetables, Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs are a must-try dish. They’re quick to make, healthy, and perfect for any occasion.
So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate kabob experience!
PrintYummy Honey Chicken Kabobs: A Sweet and Savory Grilled Delight
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs are the perfect balance of sweet and savory, featuring juicy chicken and vibrant vegetables marinated in a flavorful honey-soy sauce mixture. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a quick family dinner, these kabobs will be the highlight of your meal with their caramelized glaze and tender texture.
Ingredients
Marinade Ingredients:
- Honey: ⅓ cup
- Soy Sauce: ⅓ cup
- Vegetable Oil: ¼ cup
- Ground Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
Kabob Ingredients:
- Chicken Breast Halves: 8 pieces (skinless, boneless), cut into 1-inch cubes
- Small Onions: 5, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Red Bell Peppers: 2, cut into 2-inch pieces
- Garlic Cloves: 2, lightly smashed
- Bamboo Skewers: 12 (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, and black pepper.
- Reserve ¼ cup of the marinade in a separate container for basting.
2. Marinate the Chicken and Vegetables:
- Add chicken cubes, onions, red bell peppers, and garlic cloves to the bowl with the marinade. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
- Heat your outdoor grill to high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
- Remove chicken and vegetables from the marinade, discarding the used marinade.
- Thread chicken, onions, and peppers alternately onto the soaked skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
- Place the kabobs on the preheated grill.
- Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning frequently and brushing with reserved marinade until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Transfer the kabobs to a serving platter and serve hot.
Notes
- Soak Skewers: Soak bamboo skewers to prevent burning on the grill.
- Even Sizes: Ensure chicken and vegetables are cut uniformly for even cooking.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American