Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea that the whole family will love? Look no further! These Chicken and Veggie Skewers are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and customizable to your liking, these skewers are a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest. They're a great option for healthy meals and are easily adaptable to whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, making them a budget-friendly choice, too. Get ready to experience the joy of simple, flavorful food!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 12-16 wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chicken cubes, bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
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Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
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Marinate the Skewers: Pour the marinade over the chicken and vegetables, tossing gently to coat everything evenly. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes (longer is better, up to 2 hours in the refrigerator).
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Assemble the Skewers: Thread the chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating the ingredients for a visually appealing presentation.
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Cook the Skewers: Preheat your grill, broiler, or oven to 400°F (200°C). Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If using the broiler, place the skewers 4-6 inches from the heat source and broil for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. For the oven, roast for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
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Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. These delicious skewers are perfect on their own or served with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Skewers:
- Don't overcrowd the skewers: Leave some space between the pieces of chicken and vegetables to ensure even cooking.
- Soak wooden skewers: This prevents them from burning during cooking.
- Use metal skewers for grilling: Metal skewers heat up faster and more evenly than wood.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size of your skewers and your cooking method. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like mushrooms, onions, or pineapple.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with couscous, rice, or a side salad for a satisfying and healthy dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients and portion size. However, a general estimate for a serving of these skewers would include approximately 250-300 calories, 25-30 grams of protein, and a good source of vitamins and minerals from the vegetables. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities.
These easy recipes are a testament to the deliciousness that simple homemade cooking can bring to your table. Enjoy your flavorful and healthy meal!