Fajita Chicken Kebabs: Sizzling Skewers of Summer Delight (Easy Grilled Fajita Chicken Kebabs with Bell Peppers and Onions)

Name: Fajita Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 tbsp canola oil; Zest and juice of 1 large lime; 1 tbsp chili powder; 1.5 tsp ground cumin; 1 clove garlic, chopped; 1 jalapeño, chopped (seeds removed for less spice); 0.5 tsp kosher salt; 1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks; 1 large red onion, cut into chunks; Fresh cilantro for serving

Are you ready to fire up the grill and bask in the glorious flavors of summer? Let me introduce you to the ultimate backyard sensation: Fajita Chicken Kebabs! These vibrant skewers are loaded with juicy marinated chicken, jewel-like chunks of bell peppers, and smoky onions, all kissed by a zesty lime marinade. Every bite sends taste buds dancing with excitement, making them the perfect centerpiece for any cookout or family gathering. Trust me; your guests will be begging for seconds!

Main dish photo — *The finished dish — looks amazing, right?*

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

– Big, Bold Flavors: The zippy marinade with lime and jalapeño infuses the chicken with an irresistible kick.
– Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer parties, these kebabs are sure to impress family and friends!
– Flexible & Fast: Easy to customize with your favorite veggies and spices, plus they come together in a snap.
– Make-Ahead Magic: Marinate the night before for a fuss-free grilling experience!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather some kitchen magic! This Fajita Chicken Kebabs recipe showcases simple yet flavorful ingredients that blend beautifully together. The lime brings a refreshing brightness, while the chili powder adds just the right amount of warmth. Here’s what you’ll need:

Another beautiful angle of the dish — *Just as gorgeous from this angle too!*

– 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
– 1 large red bell pepper
– 1 large green bell pepper
– 1 large red onion
– Fresh cilantro (for serving)
– Salsa, sour cream (or plain yogurt), and guacamole (optional for serving)

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

One of the best things about Fajita Chicken Kebabs is their adaptability! Here are some fun variations to personalize your skewers:

– Go Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for everyone!
– Add Extra Protein: Throw in shrimp or beef alongside the chicken for a surf and turf twist.
– Make it Spicier: Keep the seeds in the jalapeño or add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick!
– Swap the Dressing: Experiment with different marinades like teriyaki or BBQ for a unique flavor profile.
– Colorful Additions: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for delicious variety and vibrant colors!

How to Make Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Ready to get grilling? Follow these easy steps to create your Fajita Chicken Kebabs that will have everyone lining up for a taste!

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them into a zip-top bag, ready to soak in flavor.

Step 2: Whisk the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the canola oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, cumin, chopped garlic, jalapeño, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the zesty marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it up and gently squish the bag to ensure every piece is coated. Pop it in the fridge to marinate for at least 30 minutes or, for maximum flavor, overnight!

Step 4: Prepare the Grill

When it’s time to grill, heat your grill to medium-high. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 5: Assemble the Kebabs

Chop the red and green bell peppers and the onion into ¾-inch chunks. Thread these colorful veggies onto skewers, alternating with the marinated chicken pieces.

Step 6: Grill to Perfection

Lightly oil the grill and place the kebabs on the grates. Cover and grill for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning once or twice, until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Transfer the kebabs to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a fiesta on your plate!

Pro Tips for Making Fajita Chicken Kebabs

– Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
– Uniform Sizes: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar sizes for even cooking.
– Water Soak Skewers: Always soak wooden skewers to prevent them from catching fire on the grill.
– Rest the Kebabs: Let the kebabs rest for a few minutes after grilling for juicier chicken.

How to Serve Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Garnishes

Elevate your presentation! Fresh cilantro and a drizzle of lime juice add a burst of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair these kebabs with some refreshing sides like a crunchy corn salad, classic Mexican rice, or creamy coleslaw for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual kabobs on cute mini skewers for a fun appetizer, or arrange a colorful platter with dips for a stunning centerpiece. They also make a delightful lunchbox option!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheating will bring back that delicious flavor!

Freezing

While these kebabs are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Just thaw before grilling!

Reheating

Reheat kebabs in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, or toss them back on the grill for a few minutes to revive that smoky char.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and flavor.

Is this recipe spicy?
The heat level depends on how you prepare the jalapeño. Remove the seeds for a milder flavor, or leave them in for a kick!

How do I make this gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free, so feel free to enjoy without any substitutions!

Can I prepare this in advance?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time for a more robust flavor.

Final Thoughts

Now that you’re armed with the fabulous Fajita Chicken Kebabs recipe, it’s time to light up that grill! These skewers are not only a feast for the taste buds but also a vibrant addition to your summer gatherings. Trust me, once you take that first juicy bite, you’ll be hooked! So, gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and celebrate summer with these mouthwatering kebabs. Happy cooking!