Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, healthy, and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Panini Kabob Grill Chicken recipe is your answer. It's a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and the convenience of grilling, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying meal! This recipe delivers on healthy meals, quick dinner ideas and is a great example of homemade cooking at its best.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs 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 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 small panini rolls or pita bread
Instructions:
Get Started:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
Marinate the Chicken:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken and vegetables, and toss to coat evenly. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor. This step is key for tender and flavorful chicken.
Assemble the Kabobs:
- Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers. You can use either metal or wooden skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before using to prevent burning). Aim for an even distribution of ingredients on each skewer.
Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the kabobs for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender. Use tongs to gently turn the skewers to ensure even cooking.
Prepare the Panini:
- While the kabobs are grilling, lightly toast the panini rolls or pita bread.
Assemble & Serve:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Place the grilled chicken and vegetables into the toasted panini rolls or pita bread. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Panini Kabob Grill Chicken:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- If you don't have a grill, you can cook the kabobs in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, or eggplant.
- For a heartier meal, serve the panini kabobs with a side of rice or a fresh salad.
Variations:
- Spicy Panini Kabobs: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
- Mediterranean Panini Kabobs: Add crumbled feta cheese to the skewers along with Kalamata olives.
- BBQ Panini Kabobs: Use your favorite BBQ sauce as a marinade instead of the lemon-herb mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This Panini Kabob Grill Chicken recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are both easy and healthy. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights, and its adaptability makes it suitable for various taste preferences. Enjoy this simple yet impressive meal!