As summer sizzles into full swing, nothing beats the joy of firing up the grill and filling the air with tantalizing aromas. The moment I sink my tongs into a succulent piece of Barbecue Maple Chicken Kebabs, I’m transported back to blissful backyard gatherings with friends and family. Imagine juicy chicken marinated in a rich, sweet maple glaze, grilled to perfection and paired with vibrant veggies that add both crunch and flavor.
This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories, sharing laughter, and making every meal special. With minimal effort, you’ll have a dish that impresses guests and satisfies that craving for homemade goodness. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an entertaining weekend barbecue, these kebabs are guaranteed to steal the show! Let’s dive into this delightful combination of savory and sweet, and get ready to make your grill the star of the season.
Why Love Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
Heavenly flavors collide in these Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs, offering a memorable dish for every occasion. Effortless prep makes these skewers perfect for spontaneous summer gatherings. Visually stunning, vibrant veggies complement the juicy chicken for an appealing presentation. Shared joy awaits as friends and family savor each bite, creating unforgettable moments around the grill. Versatile ingredient swaps allow customization for all preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys this delicious, easy recipe!
Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs Ingredients
For the Kebabs
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast – A tender protein cut into 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking.
- Olive Oil – This adds moisture and richness; can easily be swapped for vegetable oil.
- Maple Syrup – The star of the show, lending natural sweetness to the marinade; substitutes like honey or agave syrup work well too.
- Maple Seasoning – Enhances the kabobs with a smoky flavor; try McCormick’s Grill Mates® Smokehouse Maple for best results, or your favorite barbecue rub.
For the Vegetables
- Red Onion – Adds a sweet bite and works beautifully in tandem with the chicken; sweet onion or shallots are excellent alternatives.
- Green Bell Pepper – Offers a mild crunch; feel free to swap in red or yellow peppers to brighten things up.
- Red Bell Pepper – A deliciously sweet addition that adds vibrant color to your kabobs.
- Green Onions (optional) – Sprinkle these on top for a fresh garnish that boosts visual appeal and flavor.
These Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs are the perfect dish to brighten up your summer gatherings while combining savory and sweet flavors!
How to Make Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs
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Prepare Marinade: In a spacious bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and maple seasoning until well blended. This sweet and savory mixture sets the stage for your kebabs!
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Marinate Chicken: Place the cut chicken into a Ziploc bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This ensures flavorful chicken with every bite!
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Skewer Ingredients: Remove the chicken from the marinade, and alternate threading the marinated chicken and assorted vegetables onto pre-soaked wooden skewers. Aim for a colorful medley!
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Season & Grill: Lightly season the kebabs with extra maple seasoning, then grill them over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. Turn frequently until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
Optional: Serve the kebabs with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra crunch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kebabs are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to savor more time outdoors with family and friends! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; just place it in a Ziploc bag with the marinade and refrigerate. Additionally, you can cut your vegetables (red onion, bell peppers) ahead of time, and they’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days—simply store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to grill, thread the marinated chicken and prepped vegetables onto skewers, then grill as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy tender, flavorful kebabs with minimal effort and maximum enjoyment!
What to Serve with Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
As you savor the sweet and savory experience of these kebabs, think about how to complement their flavors and textures for a delightful summer feast.
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Corn Salad: This dish brings a burst of sweetness and freshness, balancing the maple tones in the kebabs with its crunchy veggies and zesty dressing. The flavors mingle beautifully, creating a refreshing side.
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Jalapeno Cheddar Biscuits: Fluffy and slightly spicy, these biscuits offer a comforting, cheesy contrast to the kebabs. They are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce while adding extra richness to your meal.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with crisp cabbage and a creamy dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside the grilled chicken. Its coolness complements the kabobs while also adding vibrant color to your plate.
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Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred and seasoned, grilled asparagus enhances the smoky elements of the kebabs while adding a tender crunch. The earthiness of the asparagus pairs beautifully with the sweet maple glaze.
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Watermelon Feta Salad: This light and juicy salad combines the sweetness of ripe watermelon with the saltiness of feta cheese. It brings a delightful contrast to the main dish, making each bite invigorating.
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Iced Lemonade: A refreshing drink that cuts through the richness of the kebabs, iced lemonade is the perfect companion for hot summer days. Its tartness acts as a lovely contrast to the sweet, glazed chicken.
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Grilled Peaches: For a unique dessert, serve grilled peaches drizzled with honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Their caramelized sweetness mirrors the maple chicken, creating a harmonious end to the meal.
Expert Tips for Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs
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Perfect Marinade Time: Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours for maximum flavor absorption. This ensures the chicken is juicy and well-seasoned.
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Skewer Safety: Always soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. This small step can make a big difference!
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Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption while keeping it juicy.
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Veggie Variety: Feel free to mix up your vegetables! Adding zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes offers exciting flavor combinations and vibrant colors to your Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs.
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Immediate Serving: Serve the kebabs right off the grill for the best taste and texture. If you have leftovers, enjoy them in salads or wraps the next day!
How to Store and Freeze Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs
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Fridge: Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them juicy and delicious for your next meal!
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Freezer: If you want to save them for later, freeze the kebabs in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Reheat kebabs in the oven at 375°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also grill them briefly over medium heat to restore that delightful grilled flavor.
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Thawing: When ready to enjoy frozen kebabs, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.
Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs Variations
Get ready to unleash your creativity in the kitchen with these delicious twists!
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Tofu Option: Swap chicken for firm tofu, marinated the same way for a delightful vegetarian version.
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Shrimp Delight: Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood spin that’s packed with flavor and cooks quickly on the grill.
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Extra Veggies: Add zucchini or mushrooms to your skewers for additional texture and a burst of color that will brighten up your dish.
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Spicy Kick: Substitute the maple seasoning with a bold dry rub for a spicier version that adds heat and intensity to each bite.
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Fruity Addition: Thread pineapple chunks alongside the chicken and veggies to introduce a sweet, tropical twist that beautifully complements the maple glaze.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an aromatic enhancement that brings freshness and a garden-like essence to your kabobs.
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Different Proteins: Try using grilled steak or pork cubes for a heartier option, enhancing the savory and sweet balance of this dish.
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Heat & Sweet: Drizzle with a hot honey sauce after grilling for a sticky glaze that beautifully marries flavors, offering an exciting contrast to the sweet maple.
Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for making kebabs?
Absolutely! Boneless skinless chicken breast is ideal for these Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs due to its tenderness and ability to absorb flavors well. You can also use chicken thighs for a richer taste, but ensure they are cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
How should I store leftover Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
Store any leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them juicy and delicious, avoid leaving them at room temperature for more than 2 hours. When reheating, gently warm them in the oven or on the grill.
Can I freeze the kebabs after cooking them?
Certainly! To freeze cooked kebabs, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight for the best results.
How do I fix dry chicken in my kebabs?
Very! If your chicken turns out dry, don’t fret. For next time, ensure you marinate for at least 30 minutes but up to 2 hours for maximum tenderness. During cooking, keep the grill heat medium and avoid overcooking. Remember, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F; using a meat thermometer can help you get it just right.
Are there any allergens in the Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
Yes, the primary allergens in this recipe can include chicken and potentially gluten if using certain brands of maple seasoning or glaze. If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, I suggest checking labels carefully and opting for gluten-free seasoning alternatives. For a vegetarian option, firm tofu works wonderfully instead of chicken!
What should I do if I can’t find maple seasoning?
Not a problem! If you can’t find maple seasoning, use a regular barbecue rub or create your own blend using brown sugar, paprika, and a bit of salt. This alternative can still deliver a delicious, smoky flavor for your kebabs!
Maple Glazed Grilled Chicken Kabobs for Summer Fun
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Marinade: In a spacious bowl, whisk together olive oil, maple syrup, and maple seasoning until well blended.
- Marinate Chicken: Place the cut chicken into a Ziploc bag or shallow dish, pour the marinade over it, seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Skewer Ingredients: Remove the chicken from the marinade, and alternate threading the marinated chicken and assorted vegetables onto pre-soaked wooden skewers.
- Season & Grill: Lightly season the kebabs with extra maple seasoning, then grill them over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes.