Get ready to elevate your grilling game with these 20 flavorful chicken kebab marinade recipes! From spicy and tangy to sweet and smoky, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a Mediterranean-inspired treat or something a little more adventurous, like Jamaican jerk or Moroccan spiced, our collection of chicken kebab marinades has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that will take your chicken kebabs to the next level. From classic combinations like lemon and garlic to more exotic pairings like coconut curry and lime, each recipe is carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors in your chicken. So go ahead, fire up the grill, and get ready to impress your friends and family with these show-stopping chicken kebabs!
Lemon Garlic Chicken Kebabs with Herb Marinade
Brighten up your summer gatherings with these flavorful and refreshing lemon garlic chicken kebabs, infused with a zesty herb marinade.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, rosemary, and thyme.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Spicy Yogurt Marinated Chicken Kebabs
Elevate your backyard BBQs with this flavorful recipe that combines the tanginess of yogurt with the spiciness of cumin and coriander. Perfect for a summer evening, these kebabs are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, olive oil, cumin, coriander, garam masala, and red chili flakes.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Kebabs
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these sweet and savory kebabs, featuring juicy chicken glazed in a sticky honey mustard sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over the chicken.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Style Chicken Kebabs with Olive Oil Marinade
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ. Tender chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for grilling
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto wooden skewers.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Kebabs with Pineapple Marinade
A sweet and savory twist on traditional kebabs, this recipe combines juicy chicken, tender pineapple, and a rich teriyaki sauce for an unforgettable flavor experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pineapple juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
3. Thread marinated chicken, chunks of pineapple, and green onions onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve hot with additional teriyaki sauce for dipping (optional).
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Kebabs with Red Wine Marinade
Savor the rich flavors of smoky paprika and red wine as you grill these mouthwatering chicken kebabs. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
7. Brush with red wine glaze (combine red wine and honey) during the last minute of grilling.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tandoori Chicken Kebabs with Yogurt and Spices
Experience the authentic flavors of India with this simple recipe for Tandoori Chicken Kebabs, marinated in a blend of yogurt, spices, and herbs. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons Tandoori powder (or substitute with a blend of garam masala, cumin, coriander, and paprika)
– 1 teaspoon garlic paste
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, Tandoori powder, garlic paste, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
3. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Thread the chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
6. Brush with vegetable oil and cook for 8-10 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
BBQ Chicken Kebabs with Brown Sugar Marinade
This recipe combines the classic flavors of BBQ with a hint of sweetness from brown sugar to create mouthwatering chicken kebabs. Perfect for your next backyard gathering or weeknight dinner, these kebabs are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, BBQ sauce, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Greek Style Chicken Kebabs with Lemon and Oregano
Experience the vibrant flavors of Greece with these succulent chicken kebabs, infused with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of oregano.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and oregano.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as Greek salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Coconut Curry Chicken Kebabs with Lime Marinade
Experience the fusion of flavors from the East and West in this unique recipe that combines the sweetness of coconut, the spiciness of curry, and the brightness of lime. These kebabs are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, curry powder, lime juice, honey, and salt.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Chicken Kebabs with Rosemary
Elevate your BBQ game with these aromatic and flavorful chicken kebabs, infused with the perfect balance of garlic butter and rosemary. This recipe is sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, and chopped rosemary.
3. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and thread onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the garlic-rosemary butter mixture evenly onto the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sriracha Lime Chicken Kebabs with Honey Glaze
Add a tangy twist to your outdoor gatherings with these flavorful chicken kebabs, smothered in a spicy and sweet honey glaze. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying, this recipe is sure to please a crowd!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush honey glaze (see below) evenly over the kebabs.
5. Grill or pan-fry for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Honey Glaze:
– Whisk together 2 tablespoons honey and 1 tablespoon lime juice in a small bowl.
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Cumin and Coriander
Moroccan Spiced Chicken Kebabs with Cumin and Coriander
Discover the rich flavors of Morocco with this aromatic kebab recipe, featuring tender chicken, warm spices, and a hint of cumin and coriander.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, cumin, coriander, paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper (if using).
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Grill or broil kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Pesto Marinated Chicken Kebabs with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful and visually appealing dish. Pesto-marinated chicken kebabs, paired with sweet sun-dried tomatoes, are a perfect combination for any summer gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread chicken and sun-dried tomatoes onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Soy Ginger Chicken Kebabs with Sesame Marinade
Soy Ginger Chicken Kebabs with Sesame Marinade
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful and aromatic kebabs, infused with the perfect blend of soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame seeds.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated.
3. Thread the marinated chicken onto the bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
5. Cook kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Cilantro Lime Chicken Kebabs with Avocado Marinade
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these vibrant and flavorful kebabs, infused with the freshness of cilantro and lime. Perfect for a summer evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush the marinade evenly over the chicken.
4. Cook kebabs on a preheated grill or grill pan over medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Kebabs with Allspice Marinade
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this spicy and aromatic chicken kebab recipe, infused with warm allspice notes. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– 1 tsp ground allspice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, cut into wedges
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, lime juice, and allspice. Blend until smooth.
3. Thread chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper onto skewers.
4. Brush the marinade evenly over the kebabs.
5. Grill or broil for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Chicken Kebabs with Garlic and Thyme
Elevate your summer gatherings with these flavorful chicken kebabs, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of balsamic glaze, pungency of garlic, and earthiness of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or 1/4 cup reduced balsamic vinegar)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush with balsamic glaze (or reduced vinegar).
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Chili Chicken Kebabs with Citrus Marinade
Elevate your kebab game with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of oranges, the spiciness of chili peppers, and the richness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1-2 teaspoons chili flakes (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers for kebabs
Instructions:
1. In a blender or food processor, combine orange juice, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and chili flakes. Blend until smooth.
2. Place the chicken in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Buttermilk Chicken Kebabs with Dill and Parsley
Brighten up your backyard BBQs or weeknight dinners with these flavorful chicken kebabs infused with the freshness of dill and parsley.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons buttermilk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, buttermilk, garlic, dill, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to grill like a pro! This article presents 20 flavorful chicken kebab marinade recipes that will take your outdoor cooking game to the next level. From spicy and tangy options like Sriracha Lime Chicken Kebabs with Honey Glaze, to Mediterranean-inspired dishes like Tandoori Chicken Kebabs with Yogurt and Spices, there’s something for every taste bud. With a range of international flavors and marinades, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these recipes are sure to impress your family and friends.
