Sesame Chicken Kabobs
Juicy sesame chicken kabobs featuring tender marinated chicken and colorful vegetables, grilled to perfection with savory and nutty flavors, ideal for outdoor gatherings and flavorful dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 whole chicken breasts, skinned and boned ⓘ
- 1/4 cup soy sauce ⓘ
- 1/4 cup Russian or Catalina dressing ⓘ
- 1 tablespoon sesame seed ⓘ
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
- 1 green pepper, cut into 1-inch squares ⓘ
- 2 medium onions, cut into 1-inch squares
- cherry tomatoes or cubed zucchini ⓘ
Instructions
- Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces and place in a shallow container.
- Combine soy sauce, Russian or Catalina dressing, sesame seed, lemon juice, ground ginger, and garlic powder in a jar.
- Cover and shake vigorously to mix.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
- Remove chicken from marinade, reserving the marinade.
- Alternate chicken pieces, green pepper squares, onions, and cherry tomatoes or zucchini on skewers.
- Grill the kabobs about 6 inches from medium-hot coals for 15 to 20 minutes, turning and basting often with the reserved marinade.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a different protein option. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the marinade. Make sure to soak your skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. When grilling, keep a close eye to avoid overcooking, as chicken can dry out quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sesame chicken kabobs with a side of steamed rice or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with a tangy dipping sauce or your favorite barbecue sauce. Consider serving alongside a vibrant cucumber salad or roasted vegetables for added color and nutrition. These kabobs are perfect for outdoor gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for 1-2 minutes, but be cautious not to overheat and dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sesame Chicken Kabobs contains roughly 446 calories, with 15g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (46% of the Daily Value), protein (30% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 681mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of dressing instead of Russian or Catalina?
Yes, you can substitute with any vinaigrette or a light Italian dressing if you prefer. Each dressing will impart a unique flavor, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preferences.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. Additionally, the meat should be opaque and juices should run clear.
Can I prepare the kabobs in advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and assemble the kabobs a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to grill. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).