Chicken and Veggie Marinade

There’s something truly magical about summer evenings spent grilling outdoors, and this Chicken and Veggie Marinade brings that magic to the table. I remember the first time I tried this recipe; it was a warm night, and the aroma of marinated chicken and fresh veggies sizzling on the grill filled the air. My family gathered around, laughter echoing as we shared stories and enjoyed the delicious skewers. This dish has become a staple for our summer gatherings, a delightful way to celebrate the season and create lasting memories.

What’s In This Chicken and Veggie Marinade

The ingredients in this Chicken and Veggie Marinade are carefully chosen to create a harmonious blend of flavors. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing the dish, from the zesty lemons to the aromatic herbs. Together, they create a marinade that infuses the meat and veggies with a burst of taste.

• 2/3 cup olive oil: A healthy fat that helps keep the chicken moist and tender while adding richness.
• 2 medium lemons, juiced: Brings acidity and bright flavor, perfect for balancing the richness of the olive oil.
• 2 Tbsp vinegar: Adds depth to the marinade and enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper: A touch of heat to make the flavors pop.
• 1 Tbsp sugar: Balances the acidity and adds a slight sweetness.
• 1 Tbsp salt: Essential for seasoning.
• 1 tsp pepper: For added flavor.
• 4 large garlic cloves: Infuses the marinade with robust flavor.
• 1 handful parsley: A fresh herb that brightens the dish.
• 1 handful dill: Adds a unique flavor that complements the other ingredients.
• 2 lbs chicken breast or chicken tenders, diced into 1-inch squares: The star protein of this dish, succulent and flavorful.
• 2-3 large red or yellow bell peppers or 3 medium zucchini, 1/2-inch thick slices: Colorful and delicious veggies that grill beautifully.
• 2 medium red onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces: Adds sweetness and texture.
• 1 lb button mushrooms, whole: Earthy flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• 15 wooden skewers: For grilling all the tasty ingredients together.

The Method for Chicken and Veggie Marinade

Making this Chicken and Veggie Marinade is as easy as pie! The method combines marinating and grilling, resulting in a wonderfully flavorful dish. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your meal turns out just right.

1. In the bowl of a food processor, combine all marinade ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, parsley, and dill. Pulse about 15 to 30 seconds until well blended and chopped. The mixture should be smooth but have some texture. Don’t forget the salt, as it’s key to flavoring the entire dish.
2. Next, divide the marinade into two portions. Mix the veggies with half of the marinade in one ziplock bag, and place the chicken with the remaining marinade in a second ziplock bag. Seal the bags tightly and toss them to coat everything evenly with marinade. It’s a great idea to massage the marinade into the chicken for even more flavor. Refrigerate for around 4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even marination.
3. While the veggies and chicken marinate, soak the wooden skewers in a water bath. The longer, the better—this keeps the skewers from burning on the grill. I recommend at least 30 minutes for best results.
4. Once marination is complete, it’s time to fire up your BBQ! Start preheating it to around 400˚F. This temperature is perfect for grilling and helps achieve a lovely char on the chicken.
5. While the grill heats up, prepare the skewers. Thread pieces of chicken and your choice of veggies onto each skewer. I like to alternate between chicken, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a beautiful presentation. Ensure they’re packed closely for an even cook.
6. Once all the skewers are assembled, it’s time to grill! Place them on the grill over medium heat with the lid closed. Turn every 2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, which takes approximately 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, and feel free to baste with leftover marinade for extra moisture.
7. As you grill, you’ll notice the smell wafting through the air, inviting everyone to gather around. The chicken should turn a lovely golden brown color, while the veggies soften and caramelize beautifully. This is the moment to get excited!
8. When cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite of chicken.
9. Finally, serve your delicious skewers on a platter and enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends. Dig in, and relish the wonderful flavor that this Chicken and Veggie Marinade has brought to your summer feast!

Pro Tips and Tweaks

Making the most out of this Chicken and Veggie Marinade is all about the details! Here are some tips that can help enhance your grilling experience.

• Storage: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They make for a quick lunch or snack!
• Freezing: You can freeze the marinated chicken and veggies in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
• Pairing: Serve these skewers with a refreshing salad, couscous, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.
• Grilling Alternatives: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook these skewers in the oven at 400˚F or use an air fryer for a similar charred effect.
• Veggie Variations: Experiment with different vegetables based on the season. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple can add a fun twist!
• Extra Marinade: Reserve some marinade before mixing with the chicken to use as a drizzle over the cooked skewers for added flavor.

Best Served With

When it comes to enjoying your Chicken and Veggie Marinade, consider these serving suggestions for a delightful meal.

• Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet and juicy, grilled corn pairs perfectly with the smoky skewers.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm, toasty garlic bread to soak up any extra marinade.
• Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese complements the dish beautifully.
• Rice Pilaf: A flavorful rice pilaf can serve as a great base for the skewers.
• Summer Picnics: These skewers are perfect for picnics or potlucks, as they can be enjoyed hot or cold.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Chicken and Veggie Marinade is a delightful recipe that truly embodies the essence of summer grilling. It combines fresh ingredients and simple techniques to create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. I encourage you to give it a try; whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just want to enjoy a delicious meal at home, this recipe will surely impress. Enjoy the process of cooking and the joy of sharing good food with those you love!

Chicken and Veggie Marinade

This Chicken and Veggie Marinade is the ultimate summer recipe! Bursting with flavor from fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for grilling and enjoying with friends. Create delicious skewers that are healthy, easy, and sure to impress. Try it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 4 hours hrs

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 4 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 11 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2/3 cup olive oil
• 2 medium lemons, juiced
• 2 Tbsp vinegar
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 Tbsp sugar
• 1 Tbsp salt
• 1 tsp pepper
• 4 large garlic cloves
• 1 handful parsley
• 1 handful dill
• 2 lbs chicken breast or chicken tenders, diced into 1-inch squares
• 2-3 large red or yellow bell peppers or 3 medium Zucchini, 1/2-inch thick slices
• 2 medium red onions, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 1 lb button mushrooms, whole
• 15 wooden skewers

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Blender
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. In the bowl of a food processor, combine all marinade ingredients: olive oil, lemon juice, vinegar, cayenne pepper, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, parsley, and dill. Pulse about 15 to 30 seconds until well blended and chopped. The mixture should be smooth but have some texture. Don't forget the salt, as it’s key to flavoring the entire dish.
2. Next, divide the marinade into two portions. Mix the veggies with half of the marinade in one ziplock bag, and place the chicken with the remaining marinade in a second ziplock bag. Seal the bags tightly and toss them to coat everything evenly with marinade. It’s a great idea to massage the marinade into the chicken for even more flavor. Refrigerate for around 4 hours, stirring occasionally to ensure even marination.
3. While the veggies and chicken marinate, soak the wooden skewers in a water bath. The longer, the better—this keeps the skewers from burning on the grill. I recommend at least 30 minutes for best results.
4. Once marination is complete, it’s time to fire up your BBQ! Start preheating it to around 400˚F. This temperature is perfect for grilling and helps achieve a lovely char on the chicken.
5. While the grill heats up, prepare the skewers. Thread pieces of chicken and your choice of veggies onto each skewer. I like to alternate between chicken, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a beautiful presentation. Ensure they’re packed closely for an even cook.
6. Once all the skewers are assembled, it’s time to grill! Place them on the grill over medium heat with the lid closed. Turn every 2 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked, which takes approximately 15 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning, and feel free to baste with leftover marinade for extra moisture.
7. As you grill, you’ll notice the smell wafting through the air, inviting everyone to gather around. The chicken should turn a lovely golden brown color, while the veggies soften and caramelize beautifully. This is the moment to get excited!
8. When cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender bite of chicken.
9. Finally, serve your delicious skewers on a platter and enjoy the fruits of your labor with family and friends. Dig in, and relish the wonderful flavor that this Chicken and Veggie Marinade has brought to your summer feast!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They make for a quick lunch or snack!
• Tip 2: You can freeze the marinated chicken and veggies in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.
• Tip 3: Serve these skewers with a refreshing salad, couscous, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook these skewers in the oven at 400˚F or use an air fryer for a similar charred effect.
• Tip 5: Experiment with different vegetables based on the season. Asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or even pineapple can add a fun twist!
• Tip 6: Reserve some marinade before mixing with the chicken to use as a drizzle over the cooked skewers for added flavor.

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Meet Piper Cross

I am obsessed with using fresh, seasonal produce to make meals shine. I believe a squeeze of citrus or a handful of herbs can change everything. I cooked and photographed this dish with a focus on vibrant colors and natural textures, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes when you make it.