Chicken kabobs are a classic summertime favorite, but they can be enjoyed year-round with a simple oven-baked method. When using the oven instead of the grill, getting the cooking time right is key for juicy, flavorful chicken. So how long do you need to bake chicken kabobs to perfection?
In this article, I’ll share tips on choosing ingredients, skewer prep, marinating, oven temp, cook times, doneness checks, and more to help you make succulent oven-baked chicken kabobs every time.
Choosing the Chicken
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are best for easy kabob prep and even cooking Opt for uniform 1-1.5 inch cubes if cutting the meat yourself For fast kabob assembly, use pre-cut chicken from the store.
Thighs offer more moisture and flavor than breasts But breasts will cook evenly at a lower oven temp Pick your preferred cut based on texture and taste,
Prep the Kabob Skewers
Soak wooden skewers at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning. No need to soak metal skewers.
Evenly distribute chicken and veggies, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking. Use flat skewers or make two kabobs per stick for stability.
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
A simple marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs adds excellent flavor. Let chicken marinate 30 minutes to overnight.
For pre-cut chicken, marinate in a zip-top bag. Place cubed chicken in a baking dish or bowl if marinating overnight.
Line the Baking Sheet
Prevent sticking by lining a sheet pan with foil or parchment paper. Lightly grease the foil for easier release after baking.
Oven Temperature for Chicken Kabobs
Bake at 400°F for crisp exterior and thoroughly cooked inside. 375°F works for delicate veggies. Higher temps risk dry chicken.
Cook Times Based on Thickness
- 1-1.5 inch cubes: 18-22 minutes
- Kabobs with larger chunks: 24-28 minutes
- Breasts cook faster than thighs
Flip halfway through for even browning. Baste with reserved marinade every 8 minutes.
Check Doneness
Chicken is safely cooked at 165°F. Use an instant read thermometer to check temps, especially for thicker kabobs. Juices will run clear when pierced if fully cooked.
Allow to Rest
Let kabobs rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute for tender, juicy meat.
Broil for Charred Bits
If desired, broil kabobs 2-3 minutes at the end to char edges like grilled kabobs. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Handy Equipment
- Instant read thermometer for doneness checks
- Soaking container for wooden skewers
- Basting brush for marinade
- Oven-safe kabob skewers (wood or metal)
- Sheet pan or baking dish
Kabob Pairings
Serve oven-baked chicken kabobs with:
- Rice pilaf or roasted veggies
- Pasta or potato salad
- Hummus and pita
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Fresh summer salads
Marinade Ideas
- Lemon garlic: olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper
- Greek: olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, parsley
- Tandoori: yogurt, Indian spices, garlic, ginger, lemon juice
- Teriyaki: soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger
- Jerk: Caribbean jerk seasoning, lime juice, garlic, brown sugar
Kabob Veggies
Try these veggies for delicious chicken kabobs:
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Cherry tomatoes
- Zucchini or yellow squash
- Red onion
- Pineapple chunks
Handy Tips for Oven Kabobs
- Use foil or a baking mat for easy clean up
- Allow extra time if using frozen chicken
- Brush with oil to prevent drying out
- Turn kabobs halfway through baking
- Test center of thickest pieces for doneness
- Rest before serving for juicier meat
Enjoy Kabobs Year-Round
With the right prep and cook times, you can make incredibly delicious oven-baked chicken kabobs anytime. Follow these tips for perfectly cooked, juicy kabobs indoors.
Adjust marinade, seasonings, and veggie combinations to suit your tastes. Serve kabobs as an easy weeknight dinner or impress guests at your next gathering with these tasty skewers straight from the oven.
What To Serve with Chicken Kabobs
Complete your Mediterranean feast with a table of fresh sides, dips, and salads! Here are a few favorites that will complement the kabobs perfectly.
- To Store: This two-in-one combo is great for meal prepping. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good! Unthread the skewers and place the chicken and vegetables in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Place the chicken and vegetables in a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months.
- For Reheating: Simply heat in the microwave until the chicken and vegetables are warmed through.
Ingredients for Greek Chicken Kabobs
This chicken kabob recipe is ALL about the marinade. Not only does it flavor the chicken, but can be brushed onto the vegetables while grilling. For the best results, you’ll need…
- Chicken breasts: Chicken breasts are the ideal choice for grilling as they hold up well over the grill.
- Fresh vegetables: I love to use a mix of red onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and squash for their bright colors and fast cooking time on the grill. But you can always swap them out for other vegetables you love to grill.
- Chicken kabob marinade: This marinade is a bright and zesty blend of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, fresh garlic, and dried oregano.
Find the printable recipe with measurements below.
How to Cook Kabobs in the Oven
FAQ
How long do you cook chicken kebabs in the oven?
Line two baking trays with foil. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto 10 skewers, alternating the ingredients as you go, then lay them on the prepared baking trays. Roast for 30 minutes, turning the kebabs halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through.
What temperature do you bake chicken kabobs at 400?
Oven: Pre-heat oven to 400°F, line a baking sheet/tray with parchment paper, place kabobs on a wire rack. Place wire rack on parchment lined baking tray. Cook for 13-15 minutes. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F.
How long to grill chicken kabobs at 350 degrees?
Once it’s fired up, set the temperature to 350°F. Thread a piece of chicken, followed by a piece of pepper, mushroom, and onion. Repeat until the skewers are full. Grill the kabobs for 5 minutes on one side, then flip and grill for 5 more minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 180°F.