These Keto Chicken Kabobs are a fantastic option for anyone following a ketogenic or low-carb diet, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the carbs. The marinated chicken is infused with aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric, giving it a bold, savory flavor that’s complemented by the natural sweetness of grilled vegetables. By skewering tender chunks of chicken alongside colorful bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, and mushrooms, this dish not only looks vibrant but also packs in a variety of textures, from juicy chicken to charred, crispy veggies.
One of the best things about these kabobs is how versatile they are. You can easily customize them by swapping out the vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand. For example, if you prefer eggplant over zucchini or want to add cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness, you can make this recipe your own. The marinade is simple yet effective, using just a handful of ingredients like olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, but it imparts deep flavors to the chicken that are perfect for grilling.
Grilling these kabobs brings out the best in both the chicken and vegetables. The high heat from the grill helps the chicken develop a beautifully crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. The vegetables get lightly charred, bringing out their natural sugars and adding a smoky flavor that enhances the overall dish. Whether you’re cooking them on an outdoor grill, a grill pan, or even in the oven, these kabobs deliver a satisfying, low-carb meal that will make you forget you’re on a diet.
These Keto Chicken Kabobs are perfect for a family dinner, a weekend BBQ, or meal prep for the week. They’re quick to prepare, and the combination of protein-packed chicken and nutrient-dense vegetables makes them both filling and healthy. Serve them with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh green salad for a complete, keto-friendly meal that is as delicious as it is nutritious. With minimal prep and grilling time, these kabobs are sure to become a staple in your low-carb recipe collection.
Keto Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 1 1/2 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Kabobs:
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch chunks
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1 1/2-inch rounds (optional)
- 8 oz (225g) mushrooms, whole or halved (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing on veggies)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley (if using), cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cubed chicken to the bowl and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to allow the flavors to marinate.
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables by cutting the bell pepper, red onion, zucchini, and mushrooms into even pieces. Aim for pieces that are about the same size as the chicken cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Drizzle the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
- Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, onion, zucchini, and mushrooms onto the skewers, alternating between the chicken and vegetables.
4. Grill the Kabobs:
- Place the assembled kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is fully cooked through (an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
- If using a grill pan, you may need to cook the kabobs in batches depending on the size of the pan.
5. Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
- Serve the kabobs as is or with your favorite keto-friendly side, like cauliflower rice or a simple green salad.
Tips:
- Chicken Thighs vs. Chicken Breasts: You can use either chicken breasts or thighs, depending on your preference. Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful, while chicken breasts are leaner.
- Custom Veggies: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you like or have on hand. Zucchini, eggplant, and asparagus are all great options for keto-friendly kabobs.
- Make-Ahead: You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, which helps deepen the flavor. Just store it in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble and grill.
- No Grill?: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the kabobs on a grill pan or even in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through.
