If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare yet bursting with flavor, Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs are the perfect choice. This recipe combines the earthy aroma of rosemary with the creamy tang of ranch dressing to create a marinade that makes chicken tender, juicy, and delicious. Ideal for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, these kabobs are sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
For the marinade:
½ cup ranch dressing (bottled or homemade)
¼ cup olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped)
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
For the kabobs:
1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 large red onion, cut into wedges
1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water if using wooden ones)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, rosemary, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are blended.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for a deeper flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Kabobs
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F–400°F).
Alternate threading chicken pieces, bell peppers, red onions, and zucchini onto the skewers.
Reserve the marinade for basting.
Step 4: Grill the Kabobs
Place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning every 3–4 minutes and basting with the reserved marinade.
The chicken should be cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and have a slight char for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Kabobs
Vegetable Variety: Feel free to swap or add vegetables like mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple chunks for a sweet twist.
Even Cooking: Cut chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces to ensure even grilling.
Grill Marks: For beautiful grill marks, avoid moving the kabobs too frequently.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these kabobs with a side of fluffy rice, a crisp garden salad, or some warm pita bread. A dollop of ranch dressing or a sprinkle of fresh rosemary makes an excellent finishing touch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The combination of rosemary and ranch dressing creates a unique flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the smokiness of the grill. These kabobs are not only simple to prepare but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a cookout or looking for a quick, healthy dinner, Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs are a crowd-pleasing favorite.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which is rare because they’re so delicious!), here’s how you can store and reheat them:
Storing
Remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers and place them in an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Use a microwave for quick reheating; heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
For a fresher taste, reheat the kabobs in an oven at 350°F for 10–12 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes.
Variations to Try
Spicy Twist: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a kick of heat.
Herb Swap: Substitute rosemary with thyme or oregano for a different herbal flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or paneer and follow the same marination and grilling steps.
Gluten-Free Version: Ensure the Worcestershire sauce and ranch dressing you use are gluten-free.
FAQs
Can I bake the kabobs instead of grilling them?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
While it’s best to marinate and grill raw chicken for maximum flavor, pre-cooked chicken can be brushed with the marinade and grilled briefly for a smoky finish.
Can I prepare the kabobs ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the kabobs up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Rosemary Ranch Chicken Kabobs are a testament to how simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With minimal prep and loads of flavor, they’re a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or outdoor grilling sessions.
The combination of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a marinade bursting with rosemary and ranch flavors ensures these kabobs will become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Whether served fresh off the grill or reheated the next day, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
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