If you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine with something that’s both flavorful and fun to make, these Chicken Apple Kabobs are the way to go!
This Sweet and Spicy Chicken Apple Kabob recipe is the perfect blend of juicy chicken and crisp, sweet apples, all kicked up a notch with a zesty marinade. It’s a delicious way to incorporate more fruit into your main meal, making these kabobs a hit at any casual dinner or weekend cookout. Not only are they packed with flavor, but they’re also kid-friendly, quick to prepare, and gluten-free—making them a dish the entire family will enjoy.
Why You'll Love Chicken Apple Kabobs
Chicken and apples might not seem like an obvious pair, but trust us, it’s a match made in culinary heaven. The sweetness of the apples balances beautifully with the savory, slightly spicy chicken, creating a dish that’s both surprising and satisfying. The natural sugars in the apples also caramelize slightly when grilled, adding a delightful depth of flavor. They also pack some pretty great health benefits:
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: Chicken is a lean source of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues and supporting overall muscle health.
- Rich in Antioxidants: Apples provide a good dose of antioxidants like vitamin C, which helps boost your immune system and combat oxidative stress.
- Fiber-Rich: Apples are also high in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
- Low in Carbs: This recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake.
- Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or anyone following a gluten-free diet, this dish offers a flavorful meal without any gluten-containing ingredients.
Sourcing Your Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need four boneless, skinless chicken breasts, which you’ll cut into 32 pieces. When selecting apples, feel free to choose your favorite variety. And, while any apple will shine in this meal, you want to choose one with a firm texture. If you like tart, Granny Smith apples are a great choice. Or, go with a sweet option such as Fuji, Piñata®, Pink Lady or Honeycrisp. You’ll need three apples, cut into 24 pieces. Also, don’t forget to grab 8 wooden skewers—just make sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
Chicken Apple Kabobs
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 32 pieces
3 apples (your choice) cut into 24 pieces
8 wooden skewers
Lemon juice
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 lime, juiced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Cayenne pepper to taste
Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, lime juice, chili powder, paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Season with cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Place the chicken in a resealable bag with marinade to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator at least 1 hour (4 to 6 hours for added flavor).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Toss apples in lemon juice, then assemble skewers, alternating chicken and apples. Discard marinade.
- Lightly oil the grill grate. Grill skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken juices run clear.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Kabobs
You can pair a lot of sides with chicken kabobs. Here are some of our top favorites:
- Homemade Hummus
- Tomato and Peach Salad
- Roasted Garlic Parmesan Carrots
- Almond Butternut Squash Au Gratin
- Classic Wedge Salad
- Dragon Fruit Salad
- Grilled Eggplant Veggie Bowl
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