Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a vibrant, flavorful, and healthy meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! These Chicken Shrimp Kabobs are the perfect solution. Packed with juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a zesty marinade, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend barbecue. It's a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and easy recipes that won't compromise on taste or nutrition.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using)
Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken and Shrimp
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and shrimp to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. This marinating step is key to creating truly delicious and flavorful kabobs.
Step 2: Assemble the Kabobs
Thread the chicken, shrimp, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and red onion onto the skewers, alternating ingredients for an attractive and even cooking.
Step 3: Grill or Broil the Kabobs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your broiler to high. Grill the kabobs for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the shrimp is pink and opaque. If broiling, place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with foil and broil for about 5-7 minutes per side, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the kabobs from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious chicken shrimp kabobs are perfect on their own or served with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Kabobs:
- Don't overcrowd the skewers: Leave some space between the ingredients to ensure even cooking.
- Use metal skewers for grilling: Wooden skewers can sometimes burn before the food is cooked through.
- Adjust the marinade to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any ingredient to suit your preferences. For example, you could add a pinch of oregano or cumin for a different flavor profile.
- Pre-cook the chicken: For extra safety, particularly if you have children, you can pre-cook the chicken in a pan before assembling the kabobs to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken and shrimp with beef, pork, or tofu.
- Change the marinade: Experiment with different marinades, such as teriyaki, balsamic, or peanut sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients. A general estimate for a 4-serving recipe could be around 300-350 calories, with moderate protein and healthy fats. Remember to use a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis based on your specific ingredients and quantities.
This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and delicious meal. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a flavorful and satisfying dinner that’s both easy and quick to prepare. Enjoy!