Description
This vibrant Chicken and Veggie Marinade recipe features a zesty blend of herbs, citrus, and spices, perfectly infused into tender chicken and fresh vegetables. Marinated for four hours, then grilled to smoky perfection, these skewers are a colorful, flavorful dish ideal for BBQs and healthy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Marinade Ingredients
- 2/3 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 medium lemons
- 2 Tbsp vinegar
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 Tbsp sugar
- 1 Tbsp salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- 4 large garlic cloves
- 1 handful of parsley
- 1 handful of dill
Protein
- 2 lbs chicken breast or chicken tenders, diced into 1-inch squares
Vegetables
- 2-3 large red or yellow bell peppers, sliced or 3 medium zucchini, 1/2-inch thick slices
- 2 medium red onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
- 1 lb button mushrooms, whole
Other
- 15 wooden skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In the bowl of a food processor, combine olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic cloves, parsley, and dill. Pulse for 15-30 seconds until all ingredients are well blended and finely chopped.
- Marinate Chicken and Vegetables: Divide the marinade into two portions. Place the veggies in one ziplock bag with half the marinade and toss to coat. Place the diced chicken in a separate ziplock bag with the remaining marinade. Seal both bags and refrigerate for approximately 4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even marination.
- Soak Skewers: While the chicken and veggies marinate, soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes or longer to prevent burning during grilling.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your BBQ grill to around 400ËšF (medium-high heat). This ensures the skewers cook evenly and develop a nice char without drying out.
- Assemble Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces and vegetables alternately onto the soaked skewers, distributing evenly for balanced cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill, close the lid, and cook over medium heat. Turn the skewers every 2 minutes for even cooking and to develop grill marks. Grill for approximately 15 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are tender and lightly charred.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove skewers from grill and serve immediately. These flavorful skewers make a great main dish paired with rice, salad, or your favorite side.
Notes
- Soaking the wooden skewers is essential to avoid them burning or catching fire on the grill.
- Marinating for at least 4 hours enhances flavor and tenderness; overnight marinating is also recommended if time allows.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level according to your preference.
- You can substitute chicken with tofu or another protein for variation.
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor impact in the marinade.
