How Long Do You BBQ Chicken Kabobs: A Detailed Grilling Guide

Chicken kabobs are a backyard grilling staple that can be made in infinite flavor combinations Their versatility makes them a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings or a quick weeknight meal However, achieving perfectly cooked chicken on skewers takes a bit of grilling know-how. One of the most common questions is how long do you BBQ chicken kabobs?

How you prepare the chicken, the type of chicken, and how the grill is set up can all affect the cooking time. You can make juicy and flavorful chicken kabobs every time if you know how to do it. We’ll talk about everything you need to know about grilling in this in-depth guide, from how to get ready to grill times and temperatures. Let’s get grilling!.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Kabobs

The first step is selecting high-quality chicken. Opting for the right cut makes a difference in texture and cook time. Here are top options:

• Chicken breasts without bones are the leanest option and cook quickly. Cut them into 1-inch cubes and cook for 10 to 12 minutes.

• Chicken Thighs: More fat and flavor than breasts. Use boneless and skinless thighs. Cooks in 12-15 minutes.

• The chicken tenders are already cut into long strips that look great on skewers. Cook in 8-10 minutes.

• Marinated Chicken: Enhance flavor and moisture by marinating any chicken for 30 minutes up to overnight.

Consider the taste you want and mix up varieties. Marinating is highly recommended regardless of the type used.

Craft the Perfect Marinade

A marinade imparts flavor and keeps the chicken juicy on the grill. The ideal marinade contains:

• Acidic Ingredient: Lemon juice, vinegar, yogurt
• Oil: Olive, avocado, vegetable
• Seasonings: Garlic, herbs, spices

Whisk together the ingredients until well blended. Place the chicken in a bowl or zip-top bag, pour over the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to overnight. The longer it marinates, the more flavor infused into the meat.

Prep the Vegetables

The fun of kabobs is customizing ingredients on the skewers. Choosing vegetables that grill well is key.

Popular options include:

• Bell peppers
• Zucchini
• Onions
• Mushrooms
• Cherry tomatoes

Cut all veggies into 1 to 1.5-inch chunks to match the size of the chicken. This promotes even cooking.

Skewer Kabobs Properly

Threading the skewers requires some strategy. Follow these tips:

• Soak wooden skewers 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

• Alternate chicken and veggies for balanced flavor in each bite.

• Leave a small gap between ingredients so they cook evenly.

• Limit 4-5 pieces per skewer so they don’t overcrowd.

• Try wrapping meats like bacon or shrimp around chicken and skewering through both.

Proper skewering prevents uneven cooking and creates attractive kabobs.

Follow Optimal Grill Times and Temps

Now comes the moment of truth – perfectly grilling those skewers. Follow these guidelines:

Preheat and Clean Grill Grates

• Preheat grill to medium-high, around 400°F.

• Lightly oil grates to prevent sticking.

Cook Over Direct Heat

• Cook kabobs directly over the heat source.

• Expect total cooking times:

  • Chicken Breast: 10-12 minutes

  • Chicken Thighs: 12-15 minutes

  • Chicken Tenders: 8-10 minutes

Turn Frequently

• Turn skewers every 2-3 minutes for even browning.

• Use tongs instead of a fork to avoid puncturing meat.

Check Internal Temp

• Chicken should reach 165°F internally.

• Use an instant-read thermometer for accuracy.

• Remove from grill when 5°F below target temp.

Allow Resting Time

• Let kabobs rest 5 minutes before serving.

• This allows juices to redistribute.

Following these best practices results in irresistible chicken kabobs hot off the grill!

Helpful Tips and Variations

Grilling kabobs opens a world of possibilities. Here are useful tips:

• Brush with barbecue sauce during last 1-2 minutes for caramelized flavor.

• Swap in seafood like shrimp or scallops for chicken. Adjust cook times.

• Use metal skewers for convenience and easy reuse.

• Broil kabobs in the oven if grilling isn’t an option.

• Serve with desired sauces like Tzatziki, chimichurri or teriyaki on the side.

• Mix up proteins like sirloin beef or pork tenderloin instead of just chicken.

Get creative with combinations that suit your taste. The options are endless!

Common Grilling Mistakes to Avoid

It takes practice to perfect chicken kabobs. Steer clear of these pitfalls:

• Undercooking – Always grill to the recommended internal temperature for food safety.

• Overcrowding skewers – Leave space between pieces so meat cooks evenly.

• Charring exterior – Turn kabobs frequently and move to indirect heat if needed.

• Pressing with spatula – Don’t flatten kabobs while cooking or juices will be lost.

• Overmarinating – Marinating over 8 hours makes chicken mushy.

With careful attention to temperature, technique and prep, you can avoid these issues.

Grilled Kabobs Are Endless Summer Fun

Chicken kabobs check all the boxes for warm weather grilling. They deliver quick prep, easy customization and irresistible results. Keep these tips in mind for flavorful and properly cooked skewers every time. Get creative with marinades and veggie choices.

Impress your family or guests at your next barbecue by mastering kabobs hot off the grill.