Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs with bell peppers and onions are perfect for summer cookouts! This recipe brings together tender, marinated chicken and vibrant vegetables, all cooked to perfection on the grill. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress with their zesty flavor and colorful presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lime, jalapeño, and spices gives the chicken an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these kebabs warm with toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for added flavor.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and vegetables, these kebabs make for a nutritious meal option.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an easy-to-cook dinner or lunch option during the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on these tasty fajita chicken kebabs, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Zip-top bag
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat, ensuring your kebabs cook thoroughly while maintaining juiciness.
• Zip-top bag: Ideal for marinating the chicken as it keeps everything contained and allows for easy mixing.
• Cutting board & Knife: Essential for safely chopping vegetables and meat into uniform pieces for even cooking.

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Ingredients

Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs with bell peppers and onions in a zippy marinade made with lime and jalapeno. Perfect for summer cookouts!

For the Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• Zest and juice of 1 large lime (plus additional for serving)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 clove garlic (chopped)
• 1 jalapeño (chopped; remove seeds and membrane if sensitive to spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Vegetables:

• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 large green bell pepper
• 1 large red onion

For Serving:

• Fresh cilantro (for serving)
• Salsa, sour cream (or plain yogurt), and guacamole (optional)

How to Make Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together canola oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, cumin, garlic, jalapeño, and salt.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken in the zip-top bag. Seal it tightly and gently squish the bag so that all pieces are coated evenly. Place it in a baking dish to catch any drips and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Step 4: Prepare to Grill

When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes prior to use.

Step 5: Assemble the Kebabs

Cut both bell peppers and onion into 3/4-inch chunks. Thread them onto skewers with marinated chicken pieces, alternating between chicken and vegetables.

Step 6: Grill the Kebabs

Lightly oil the grill grates. Place kebabs on it and cover. Cook until chicken is fully cooked through—about 6 to 8 minutes—turning occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once cooked through, remove the kebabs from the grill onto a serving plate. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and add a few squeezes of lime juice before serving warm with optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. Enjoy your delicious fajita chicken kebabs!

How to Serve Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Fajita chicken kebabs are versatile and can be served in various ways to suit your taste. From vibrant garnishes to delicious dips, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

Fresh Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty kick.

Accompaniments

• Salsa: A chunky salsa adds a refreshing element that pairs well with the grilled chicken.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole complements the spices and enhances the overall taste.

Sides

• Rice or Quinoa: A bed of seasoned rice or quinoa makes a hearty base for your kebabs.
• Grilled Vegetables: Add more grilled veggies like zucchini or corn on the side for color and flavor.

How to Perfect Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Creating perfect fajita chicken kebabs involves attention to detail in preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out delicious every time.

• Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
• Use Skewers Wisely: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
• Cut Evenly: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes for even cooking.
• Preheat Grill Properly: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat before adding kebabs for optimal searing.

Best Side Dishes for Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Pairing side dishes with fajita chicken kebabs can enhance the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options that complement the flavors wonderfully.

1. Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice dish made with tomatoes and spices, perfect for soaking up juices.
2. Black Beans: Seasoned black beans provide protein and balance out flavors nicely.
3. Corn Salad: A fresh salad with sweet corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing adds crunch and sweetness.
4. Coleslaw: Crisp coleslaw offers a cool contrast to the warm kebabs, making it a delightful pairing.
5. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado mixed with diced tomatoes and onions adds richness to your plate.
6. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus spears bring an elegant touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your fajita chicken kebabs turn out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes.

• Boldly skip marinating time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes can lead to bland flavor. Always aim for longer marination if possible.
• Boldly overcrowding the skewers: Packing too much on each skewer can prevent even cooking. Leave some space between pieces for better heat circulation.
• Boldly neglecting grill temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s not hot enough can result in chewy chicken. Preheat your grill to medium-high before cooking.
• Boldly ignoring doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is fully cooked can lead to food safety issues. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s at least 165°F (75°C).
• Boldly forgetting to soak wooden skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, skipping the soaking step can cause them to catch fire. Soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fajita chicken kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Place cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place kebabs on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making fajita chicken kebabs.

How do I make fajita chicken kebabs spicy?

You can increase the spiciness by adding more jalapeños or including a pinch of cayenne pepper in your marinade.

Can I use different vegetables with my fajita chicken kebabs?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

What can I serve with fajita chicken kebabs?

These kebabs pair wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad. You can also add sides like beans or corn for a complete meal.

How long does it take to cook fajita chicken kebabs?

Cooking fajita chicken kebabs typically takes around 6-8 minutes on the grill, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Can I prepare these fajita chicken kebabs ahead of time?

Yes! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Fajita chicken kebabs are not only easy to prepare but also packed with vibrant flavors that everyone will love. This recipe is versatile; you can customize it with different veggies or marinades according to your taste preferences. Try these delicious kebabs at your next cookout!