Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Introduction

Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs are a zesty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for grilling season or any time you want a light, yet satisfying meal. The combination of tangy lemon, aromatic pepper, and savory chicken makes these kebabs a delicious and refreshing choice.

I first made these when I wanted something quick and flavorful for a summer barbecue, and they were a huge hit. The tangy lemon and peppery kick paired with the tender chicken created a mouthwatering combination that had everyone asking for seconds. These kebabs are incredibly versatile—you can serve them with a side of grilled vegetables, over rice, or with a fresh salad for a light meal.

What’s great about Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs is how easy they are to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a meal that’s bursting with vibrant flavors and ready in no time. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, preparing a weeknight dinner, or looking for a dish to impress guests, these kebabs will surely steal the show!

Perfect for:

• Grilling season
• Barbecues
• Quick weeknight dinners
• Outdoor gatherings
• Chicken lovers

Why You’ll Love This Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Here’s why Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs will quickly become a favorite:

• Tangy and Zesty Flavor: The bright, citrusy flavor of lemon, paired with the heat from the black pepper, creates a vibrant and refreshing marinade that infuses the chicken with tons of flavor.
• Juicy and Tender Chicken: The marinade helps keep the chicken juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, so each bite is satisfying and flavorful.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a handful of ingredients and a short marinating time, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a weekend BBQ.
• Versatile: These kebabs are perfect for serving with a variety of sides, from rice and couscous to grilled vegetables and salads.
• Grill-Friendly: These kebabs are perfect for the grill, but can also be cooked in the oven or on a stovetop grill pan if necessary.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes (including marinating time)
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs:

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are perfect for kebabs as they cook quickly and remain tender.
• Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest give the kebabs a zesty kick and enhance the flavor of the chicken.
• Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper adds a sharp, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with the lemon.
• Garlic and Onion Powder: These ingredients bring savory depth to the marinade, complementing the bright citrus and pepper flavors.
• Oregano (Optional): Adds a touch of Mediterranean flavor and depth to the marinade.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs:

Prepare the Marinade:

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano (if using), and salt. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure each piece is coated evenly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak into the chicken. For best results, marinate for up to 2 hours.

Prepare the Kebabs:

3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) if using a baking sheet or grill pan.
4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
5. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewered chicken on the grill, turning occasionally to ensure all sides cook evenly. Grill for 12-15 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has a nice char on the outside.
6. Serve: Remove the kebabs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor.

How to Serve Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs can be enjoyed in many ways:

• With Grilled Vegetables: Serve the kebabs with grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a well-rounded meal.
• Over Rice or Couscous: Serve the kebabs over a bed of fluffy rice or couscous for a filling and satisfying meal.
• As a Salad Topping: Slice the cooked chicken and add it to a fresh salad for a light yet flavorful lunch or dinner.
• With a Dipping Sauce: Pair the kebabs with a side of tzatziki, garlic yogurt sauce, or hummus for added flavor.
• On a Wrap or Pita: Use the grilled chicken kebabs as a filling for wraps or pita bread, topped with fresh vegetables and your favorite sauce.

Additional Tips for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Here are some tips to ensure your Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs turn out perfectly:

• Use Fresh Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest provide the best flavor for the marinade.
• Marinate the Chicken: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20-30 minutes (or longer) ensures the flavors really soak in and result in tender, flavorful chicken.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave some space between each piece of chicken on the skewers so they cook evenly.
• Check the Chicken’s Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
• Grill with Care: Grill over medium-high heat to get a nice sear without burning the chicken.
• Add Vegetables to the Skewers: For a more colorful and nutritious meal, add vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers alongside the chicken.

Recipe Variations for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Here are 10 variations you can try for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs:

• Spicy Lemon Pepper Kebabs: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Honey Lemon Pepper Kebabs: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey into the marinade for a touch of sweetness to balance the tangy lemon and spicy pepper.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Veggies: Skewer chunks of bell pepper, zucchini, and onion along with the chicken for a full meal on the grill.
• Garlic Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs: Add extra minced garlic to the marinade for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Feta: Crumble some feta cheese over the grilled kebabs for a Mediterranean twist.
• Lemon Basil Chicken Kebabs: Add fresh basil to the marinade for an herby, refreshing flavor.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Pineapple: Add chunks of pineapple to the skewers for a sweet and tangy flavor contrast.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Avocado: Serve the kebabs with fresh avocado slices on the side for a creamy contrast to the zesty chicken.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Greek Yogurt Sauce: Serve the kebabs with a tangy Greek yogurt sauce flavored with lemon and herbs for a refreshing dip.
• Lemon Pepper Chicken with Cilantro: Add fresh cilantro to the marinade for an herbaceous touch, and garnish the kebabs with chopped cilantro before serving.

Freezing and Storage for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

• Freezing: You can freeze marinated chicken pieces for up to 3 months. Simply portion the chicken and marinade into a freezer bag, remove air, and freeze. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
• Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them on the grill or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

Here are some tools that will make preparing Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs easier:

• Grill: A grill is the best way to cook these kebabs, giving them that perfect char and smoky flavor.
• Skewers: Use wooden or metal skewers to hold the chicken. Wooden skewers should be soaked in water before use to prevent burning.
• Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer helps ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
• Basting Brush: A brush is useful for adding extra marinade or oil to the chicken while it grills.
• Tongs: Tongs help you turn the chicken kebabs on the grill easily and prevent them from falling apart.

Frequently Asked Questions for Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   Yes, chicken thighs are a great option for kebabs as they remain juicy and tender during grilling.
2. Can I make these kebabs in the oven?
   Yes, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the kebabs on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?
   Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 2 hours ahead of time. You can also prepare the kebabs and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill.
4. Can I make these kebabs with other proteins?
   Yes, these kebabs work well with other proteins such as shrimp, turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
5. Can I freeze the marinade?
   Yes, you can freeze the marinade separately and use it later with fresh chicken.

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Conclusion

Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs are the perfect combination of tangy citrus, bold black pepper, and juicy chicken, making them a flavorful and satisfying dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve with a variety of sides, they are sure to become a favorite in your grilling repertoire. Whether you’re enjoying them with family and friends or cooking them up for a casual dinner, these kebabs will impress everyone at the table!

This recipe is as simple as it is delicious, making it ideal for everything from backyard barbecues to weeknight meals. The vibrant flavors and tender chicken are sure to make these kebabs a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering.

I’d love to see how your Lemon Pepper Chicken Kebabs turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy grilling!