Imagine a meal that combines the smoky heat of chipotle, the tenderness of perfectly roasted chicken, and a colorful array of vegetables - all without the hassle of outdoor grilling! These Chipotle Oven Chicken Kabobs are about to become your new weeknight dinner hero, delivering maximum flavor with minimal effort. Whether you're a busy home cook or a culinary adventurer, this Mexican-inspired dish promises to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Skewers for baking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken thigh chunks with chipotle sauce, olive oil, and cumin. Gently toss to ensure all chicken pieces are evenly coated with the marinade. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- While chicken marinates, prepare vegetables by cutting bell pepper into roughly 1-inch chunks and zucchini into half-moon slices approximately 1/2 inch thick.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning during baking. If using metal skewers, skip this step.
- Thread marinated chicken chunks alternately with bell pepper and zucchini pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between ingredients to ensure even cooking.
- Arrange prepared kabobs on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching each other.
- Place baking sheet in preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes, turning kabobs halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Check chicken internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer to confirm doneness.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Let your chicken sit in the chipotle marinade for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the spices to fully penetrate the meat.
- Wooden Skewer Hack: Always soak wooden skewers in water for 10 minutes before use to prevent burning in the oven.
- Even Cooking Secret: Leave a small space between ingredients on the skewer to ensure heat circulates properly and everything cooks evenly.
- Temperature is Key: Use a meat thermometer to confirm chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfectly cooked meat.
- Rest and Garnish: Let kabobs rest for 3-5 minutes after cooking to retain juices, and consider adding fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a bright finish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
