Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs are a delicious and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavors of summer right to your grill. These kebabs feature tender chicken marinated in a zesty lime and jalapeno sauce, paired with colorful bell peppers and onions. Perfect for cookouts, family gatherings, or a quick weeknight dinner, these Fajita Chicken Kebabs are sure to please everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 20 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous cookouts.
• Flavor-Packed Marinade: The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and fresh jalapeno gives these kebabs a delightful kick that enhances the flavor of the chicken.
• Colorful Presentation: With bright red and green bell peppers and purple onions, these kebabs are as visually appealing as they are tasty.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on their own or serve with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for added flavor and variety.
• Healthy Meal Choice: Low in carbs and high in protein, these kebabs make a nutritious addition to any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started on your Fajita Chicken Kebabs, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Zip-top bag
• Mixing bowl or measuring cup
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: A good grill provides even heat for cooking the chicken perfectly while adding delicious charred flavors.
• Skewers: Skewers make it easy to combine meat and vegetables for grilling. Metal skewers can be reused, while wooden ones should be soaked to prevent burning.
• Mixing Bowl: A mixing bowl is essential for whisking together the marinade ingredients thoroughly before coating the chicken.

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 Kebab Marinade

• 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 for serving)

How to Make Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag.
2. In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together canola oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, cumin, garlic, jalapeno, and salt.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it tightly.
2. Gently squish the bag so that all pieces are coated with marinade.
3. Place the bag in a baking dish to catch any drips. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more flavor.

Step 3: Prepare Your Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling.

Step 4: Assemble Kebabs

1. Cut bell peppers and onion into 3/4-inch chunks.
2. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers alternately with chunks of bell peppers and onions.

Step 5: Grill Kebabs

1. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
2. Place the assembled kebabs on the grill; cover.
3. Cook until chicken is fully cooked (no longer pink), about 6 to 8 minutes total, turning once or twice for even cooking.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove kebabs from grill to a serving plate.
2. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro and squeeze additional lime juice over them.
3. Serve warm with optional sides like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Enjoy these flavorful Fajita Chicken Kebabs at your next gathering!

How to Serve Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Fajita chicken kebabs are versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal and impress your guests.

With Fresh Salsas

• Pico de Gallo: A refreshing mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice that adds a zesty touch.
• Mango Salsa: Sweet mango combined with red onion and jalapeño creates a tropical flavor that complements the kebabs perfectly.

With Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime and spices makes for a rich dip that pairs well with grilled chicken.
• Sour Cream or Yogurt: A cool and creamy option that balances the spicy marinade of the kebabs.

On a Bed of Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime juice and fresh cilantro enhances the flavors of the kebabs.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: A healthy grain salad packed with parsley, tomatoes, and cucumber offers a fresh side option.

In Tacos or Wraps

• Soft Corn Tortillas: Fill warm tortillas with kebab pieces, topped with onions and cilantro for a tasty handheld meal.
• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb option while still enjoying all the flavors.

How to Perfect Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Achieving the perfect fajita chicken kebabs requires attention to detail and some cooking know-how. Here are tips to enhance your grilling experience.

• Marinate Longer: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
• Use High Heat: Cooking over medium-high heat helps sear the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy inside.
• Soak Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
• Cut Evenly: Ensure chicken and vegetables are cut into similar sizes for uniform cooking.
• Rotate Regularly: Turn the kebabs multiple times during grilling to promote even cooking on all sides.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Best Side Dishes for Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Adding side dishes can round out your meal nicely when serving fajita chicken kebabs. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, lime, cheese, and spices that adds sweetness and crunch.
2. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms drizzled with olive oil enhance the summer flavor.
3. Black Bean Salad: A hearty combination of black beans, corn, peppers, and dressing provides protein and fiber.
4. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a fun appetizer or snack alongside your main dish.
5. Cilantro Lime Slaw: A crunchy slaw dressed in lime juice brings brightness and freshness to balance out the meal.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes deliver a comforting side that pairs well with grilled meats.
7. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to savory flavors in the kebabs.
8. Guacamole Stuffed Peppers: Mini bell peppers filled with guacamole offer bite-sized bursts of flavor as an innovative side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few missteps when preparing Fajita Chicken Kebabs. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Bold marinade: Skipping the marination process can lead to bland kebabs. Always allow the chicken to soak in the flavorful marinade for at least 30 minutes, or longer for more flavor.
• Bold cutting sizes: Cutting your chicken and vegetables into uneven sizes results in uneven cooking. Ensure all pieces are roughly the same size for consistent grilling.
• Bold skewer preparation: Not soaking wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before use to prevent this issue.
• Bold overcrowding: Overcrowding the skewers can make it hard for the food to cook evenly. Space out your ingredients slightly on each skewer for better heat circulation.
• Bold temperature control: Cooking on too low of a heat can lead to dry chicken. Preheat your grill properly to medium-high heat for juicy, well-cooked kebabs.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Fajita Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap kebabs tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.

Reheating Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel; heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat; add a splash of oil and warm the kebabs, 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 spice level by adding more jalapeños or incorporating hot sauce into the marinade.

Can I use other meats for Fajita Chicken Kebabs?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb depending on your preference.

What vegetables pair well with Fajita Chicken Kebabs?

Besides bell peppers and onions, you can also use zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.

How do I serve Fajita Chicken Kebabs?

These kebabs are delicious served with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Final Thoughts

Fajita Chicken Kebabs are not only easy to prepare but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize them with your favorite vegetables or switch up the spices according to your taste. Give this recipe a try during your next cookout!