Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs are a fantastic dish for any gathering. Bursting with flavor from a zesty marinade of lime and jalapeño, these kebabs combine tender chicken with vibrant bell peppers and onions. They’re not only perfect for summer cookouts but also versatile enough for weeknight dinners or festive occasions. You’ll love how quick and easy they are to prepare, making them a go-to recipe in your collection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have these fajita chicken kebabs ready to marinate before grilling.
• Flavorful Marinade: The combination of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin adds a delightful zing that elevates the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to swap in other vegetables or spices to customize the kebabs to your liking.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh veggies, these kebabs provide a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate the chicken ahead of time for an even more convenient cooking experience when you’re ready to eat.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment will make the preparation and grilling process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
• Zip-top bag
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Provides high heat needed for that perfect char on your chicken kebabs.
• Skewers: Keeps all ingredients together while cooking and makes them easy to turn on the grill.
• Mixing Bowl: Allows you to whisk together the marinade thoroughly before coating the chicken.

Ingredients

Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs with bell peppers and onions in a zippy marinade made with lime and jalapeno. Perfect for summer cookouts!

For the Chicken

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• Zest and juice of 1 large lime (plus additional for serving)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 clove garlic (chopped)
• 1 jalapeño (chopped, remove seeds and membrane if sensitive to spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Vegetables

• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 large green bell pepper
• 1 large red onion

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro (for serving)
• Salsa, sour cream (or plain yogurt), and guacamole (optional for serving)

this recipe

How to Make Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place them in a zip-top bag.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a small bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
1. Canola oil
2. Lime juice and zest
3. Chili powder
4. Ground cumin
5. Chopped garlic
6. Chopped jalapeño
7. Kosher salt

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Pour the marinade over the chicken in the bag. Seal it tightly, then gently squish it so that all pieces are coated. Place in a baking dish to catch any drips, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you prefer deeper flavors.

Step 4: Preheat Your Grill

When you’re ready to cook, heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling.

Step 5: Prepare Vegetables

Cut the bell peppers and onion into 3/4-inch chunks. Thread these onto skewers alternating with marinated chicken pieces.

Step 6: Grill Kebabs

Lightly oil the grill grates. Place kebabs on the grill, cover, and let cook until fully cooked—about 6 to 8 minutes—turning occasionally for even cooking.

Step 7: Serve

Once cooked through, remove kebabs from heat. Transfer them to a serving plate and sprinkle with fresh cilantro along with a squeeze of lime juice. Serve warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole as desired.

How to Serve Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Fajita chicken kebabs are versatile and delicious, making them a great option for any gathering. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your dish and impress your guests.

Taco Bar Experience

• Warm Tortillas: Serve with soft corn or flour tortillas for an authentic taco experience.
• Fresh Toppings: Offer toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, and sliced avocado to customize each serving.

Salad Bowls

• Crisp Greens: Serve the kebabs over a bed of mixed greens for a light yet filling meal.
• Dressing Options: Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette or ranch dressing for added flavor.

Skewers with Dips

• Salsa: A fresh salsa can enhance the flavors of the kebabs beautifully.
• Creamy Dressing: Offer sour cream or plain yogurt as a cool dip alongside the warm kebabs.

Garnished Platter

• Cilantro Sprigs: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top of the kebabs for a burst of color and flavor.
• Lime Wedges: Include lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh lime juice over their kebabs.

How to Perfect Fajita Chicken Kebabs

To ensure your fajita chicken kebabs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Marinade: Use a zesty marinade that includes lime juice and spices to infuse deep flavors into the chicken.
• Skewer Selection: Choose metal skewers for easier handling and even cooking; if using wooden ones, soak them in water beforehand.
• Even Cooking: Cut your chicken and vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking on the grill.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Space out the ingredients on skewers to allow hot air to circulate, promoting even grilling.
• Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow kebabs to rest for a few minutes before serving to let juices redistribute.

Best Side Dishes for Fajita Chicken Kebabs

Pair your fajita chicken kebabs with delicious sides that complement their flavors. Here are some great options.

1. Spanish Rice: A flavorful side with tomato, garlic, and spices that pairs well with grilled meats.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter and grilled adds a smoky sweetness to your meal.
3. Black Beans Salad: A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, onions, and cilantro for added texture and protein.
4. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that adds richness; serve with tortilla chips or as a topping.
5. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a crisp contrast to the warm kebabs while adding freshness.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted until tender enhance your meal’s color and flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making fajita chicken kebabs, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing the chicken to marinate reduces flavor. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for deeper taste.
• Using Cold Chicken: Grilling chicken straight from the fridge can lead to uneven cooking. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling.
• Overcrowding the Skewers: Packing too much onto skewers restricts even cooking. Alternate chicken and veggies while leaving space between pieces for heat circulation.
• Ignoring Grill Temperature: Cooking on a grill that’s too hot or too cold can result in charred outsides with raw insides. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfect cooking.
• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on cooking time can be misleading. Use a meat thermometer; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover fajita chicken kebabs in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Wrap each kebab tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Fajita Chicken Kebabs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kebabs on a baking sheet and cover with foil, reheating for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place kebabs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals, checking every 30 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil. Add kebabs and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do Fajita Chicken Kebabs take to cook?

Fajita chicken kebabs typically take about 6-8 minutes on a medium-high grill, depending on the size of the chicken pieces.

Can I use other vegetables with Fajita Chicken Kebabs?

Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and color.

Are Fajita Chicken Kebabs gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it uses simple ingredients without any gluten-containing items.

What dipping sauces pair well with Fajita Chicken Kebabs?

Salsa, guacamole, and sour cream are fantastic choices that complement the flavors of the kebabs perfectly.

Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and marinate the chicken ahead of time. Just remember to store it properly in the fridge until ready to grill.

Final Thoughts

Fajita chicken kebabs are not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize. Whether you’re preparing them for a summer cookout or a quick weeknight dinner, these kebabs deliver vibrant flavors that everyone will love. Experiment with different vegetables or marinades to make this recipe your own!

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Easy Grilled Fajita Chicken Kebabs

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 28 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x

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Description

Easy grilled fajita chicken kebabs are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for any gathering or weeknight meal. These skewers feature succulent marinated chicken combined with colorful bell peppers and onions, all bursting with zesty lime and jalapeño flavors. Quick to prepare in just 20 minutes, they offer a healthy option without skimping on taste. Ideal for summer cookouts or cozy dinners, these kebabs are versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables and spices. Enjoy them fresh off the grill or as part of a taco bar – either way, they’re bound to impress!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons canola oil
• Zest and juice of 1 large lime
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 clove garlic (chopped)
• 1 jalapeño (chopped)
• 1 large red bell pepper
• 1 large green bell pepper
• 1 large red onion
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and place in a zip-top bag.
2. Whisk together canola oil, lime juice and zest, chili powder, cumin, garlic, jalapeño, and salt in a bowl.
3. Pour marinade over chicken in the bag; seal tightly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat; soak wooden skewers if using.
5. Cut bell peppers and onion into chunks; alternate threading onto skewers with marinated chicken.
6. Grill kebabs for about 6 to 8 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 2 kebabs (approx. 140g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 26g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Customize your kebabs by adding zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Serve with warm tortillas and fresh toppings for an interactive meal.