Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Sizzling Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe: Sweet Backyard Magic

Crafting delectable honey chicken kabobs will transport you to a world of mouthwatering flavors.

Aromas of sweet and savory notes dance through your kitchen while preparing this simple dish.

Marinating tender chicken pieces unlocks incredible taste sensations that delight every palate.

Home cooks appreciate how quickly these kabobs come together with minimal ingredients.

Marinades infused with golden honey create a caramelized glaze that makes each bite irresistible.

Grilling transforms ordinary chicken into a spectacular meal everyone will request again and again.

Let’s fire up the barbecue and create something truly memorable tonight.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with pork, beef, or shrimp. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.

  • Is it necessary to marinate the chicken for 2 hours?

While 2 hours provides the best flavor, even 30 minutes of marinating can enhance the taste. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful the chicken becomes.

  • What if I don't have a grill?

You can cook these kabobs in an oven at 425°F for 15-20 minutes or use a stovetop grill pan. The key is achieving a slightly charred exterior and fully cooked interior.

Why People Rave About Honey Chicken Kabobs

  • Grill Up Quick Flavor: Perfectly balanced marinade creates mouthwatering chicken kabobs that come together with minimal prep and maximum taste.
  • Customize Your Feast: Versatile recipe allows mixing different vegetables and adapting to personal preferences, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
  • Healthy Protein Packed Meal: Lean chicken combined with fresh vegetables provides a nutritious option that satisfies hunger without heavy calories.
  • Simple Cooking Adventure: Beginner-friendly technique requires basic kitchen skills, making it perfect for home cooks wanting to explore grilling without complicated techniques.

What You’ll Need for Chicken Kabob Recipe

Main Protein:
  • Chicken: Lean and tender meat that absorbs the sweet and savory marinade perfectly.
Marinade Ingredients:
  • Honey: Provides a natural sweetness and helps create a caramelized glaze on the kabobs.
  • Soy Sauce: Adds depth of flavor and helps tenderize the chicken.
  • Vegetable Oil: Helps distribute the marinade and prevents sticking during grilling.
  • Garlic: Brings a robust and aromatic flavor to the marinade.
  • Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and enhances the overall seasoning.
Skewer Components:
  • Vegetables: Fresh produce that adds color, nutrition, and complements the chicken's flavor (specific vegetables not mentioned in original instructions).

How to Make Honey Chicken Kabobs at Home

Step 1: Whip Up Flavorful Marinade

In a mixing bowl, blend together honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, freshly ground black pepper, and finely chopped garlic until well combined.

The mixture creates a sweet and savory coating that will make your chicken irresistibly delicious.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken Cubes

Toss chicken pieces into the marinade, ensuring each cube is completely covered.

Seal the container and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.

Step 3: Prepare Grilling Station

Fire up the grill to medium heat and lightly brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.

This helps create those perfect grill marks and keeps the kabobs from falling apart.

Step 4: Assemble Colorful Kabobs

Create vibrant skewers by alternating chicken pieces with a variety of vegetables such as:
  • Bell peppers
  • Red onions
  • Zucchini
  • Cherry tomatoes

Arrange the ingredients to create an eye-catching and balanced presentation.

Step 5: Grill to Perfection

Place kabobs on the grill, cooking for 12-15 minutes.

Rotate skewers frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Brush with reserved marinade during grilling to enhance flavor and keep the meat moist.

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Remove kabobs from the grill when chicken is fully cooked and vegetables have a slight char.

Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy immediately while hot and juicy.

Easy Tips for Perfect Honey Chicken Kabobs

  • Let chicken soak in marinade for at least 2 hours to maximize flavor absorption and tenderize meat thoroughly.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to stop them from charring during grilling.
  • Alternate chicken and vegetables on skewers for even cooking and attractive presentation.
  • Brush reserved marinade during grilling to enhance taste and create delicious caramelization.
  • Use meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safe and perfectly cooked kabobs.

Honey Chicken Skewer Styles You Can Try

  • Gluten-Free Version: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to create a gluten-free marinade that maintains rich flavor and keeps the recipe suitable for those with wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegetarian Kabob Alternative: Swap chicken with firm tofu or tempeh cubes, marinating protein in the same honey-based sauce and grilling until golden and slightly crispy on the edges.
  • Low-Carb Option: Use sugar-free honey substitute or monk fruit sweetener to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the signature sweet-savory profile of the original recipe.
  • Spicy Kick Variation: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha sauce to the marinade for those who enjoy extra heat, creating a zesty version of the classic honey chicken kabobs.

What to Serve With Chicken Kabobs Recipe

  • Dinner Party Delight: Serve kabobs on a large wooden board with fresh herbs scattered around, creating an inviting rustic presentation.
  • Fresh Side Companions: Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious marinade and provide a balanced meal.
  • Zesty Dipping Station: Create a quick yogurt-based sauce with chopped cucumber, mint, and a splash of lemon for guests to customize their kabob experience.
  • Summer Gathering Twist: Arrange kabobs on a colorful platter with grilled lemon halves for squeezing, offering a bright and interactive dining moment.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Kabobs Right

  • Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken remains safe and fresh.
  • Wrap kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 months, maintaining optimal taste and texture.
  • Place kabobs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking temperature to prevent drying out.
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Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe

Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs Recipe


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4.9 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Succulent honey chicken kabobs bring Middle Eastern grilling magic to home kitchens with sweet and savory flavors. Marinated chicken pieces caramelize beautifully over flames, delivering a delicious meal you can enjoy with family and friends.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 8 skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes

Marinade Ingredients:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Vegetable Ingredients:

  • Assorted vegetables for kabobs (bell peppers, onions, zucchini)

Additional Items:

  • Skewers

Instructions

  1. Craft a luxurious marinade by blending honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, freshly cracked black pepper, and finely minced garlic in a mixing bowl.
  2. Immerse chicken cubes thoroughly in the aromatic mixture, ensuring complete coating. Seal and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
  3. Prepare outdoor grill to medium heat (approximately 375°F), and lightly lubricate cooking grates to prevent sticking.
  4. Construct colorful skewers by carefully threading marinated chicken pieces and selected vegetables in an alternating pattern for visual appeal and balanced flavor.
  5. Position kabobs on preheated grill, rotating every 3-4 minutes to ensure uniform cooking and prevent burning. Continue grilling for 12-15 minutes until chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F and vegetables develop enticing caramelized edges.
  6. While grilling, periodically baste kabobs with reserved marinade to enhance moisture and intensify flavor profile.
  7. Remove from heat, let rest for 2-3 minutes to redistribute juices, then serve piping hot for maximum gustatory satisfaction.

Notes

  • Marinate chicken longer for deeper flavor infusion, up to 8 hours in the refrigerator for maximum taste development.
  • Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning during grilling.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace traditional soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos to maintain the same umami profile.
  • Consider adding pineapple chunks to skewers for a tropical twist that complements the honey’s sweetness and helps tenderize the meat.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 214 kcal
  • Sugar: 11 g
  • Sodium: 350 mg
  • Fat: 5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 13 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 26 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Amanda Bennett

Amanda Bennett

Recipe Curator & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Baking and Pastry Arts, Recipe Testing and Development, Culinary Instruction, Food Styling and Photography

Education

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Asheville, NC
​Diploma in Culinary Arts
Emphasized practical cooking skills, nutrition, and kitchen management.​

Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, Cambridge, MA
Certificate in Professional Pastry Arts
Specialized in baking techniques, dessert presentation, and flavor profiling


Amanda’s roots run deep in the Southern hills, where every meal started fresh from the garden and every dessert came with a story. She trained at Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College and sharpened her pastry skills at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts, blending classic technique with everyday charm.
At The Liffey, Amanda’s passion is making baking and home cooking feel natural and joyful. She’s all about single recipes that are simple enough for a busy afternoon, but special enough to make someone’s day a little sweeter.

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