There's nothing quite like the mouthwatering aroma of Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs sizzling on the grill. Juicy pieces of chicken, kissed with a sweet-and-savory honey marinade, and charred to perfection alongside vibrant vegetables—this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

I first discovered this recipe at a summer BBQ hosted by a close friend. Watching everyone go back for seconds convinced me it was worth recreating at home, and now, these kabobs have become a staple for every warm-weather gathering we host.

Trust me, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Let’s dive into what makes these honey chicken kabobs irresistible!

Why You'll Love These Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs

Get ready to fall head over heels for your new favorite grilled dish! These Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs are packed with flavor and designed to impress both kids and adults alike.

First, there's the perfect balance of flavors in the marinade. A combination of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of spice coats every bite of chicken, creating a glaze that's caramelized on the outside but juicy on the inside.

These kabobs are also incredibly versatile. You can switch up the veggies or even change the protein if you prefer. Whether you’re grilling on a sunny afternoon or broiling in the oven when the weather’s less cooperative, this recipe adapts beautifully.

Not to mention, they're perfect for meal prep! You can marinate the chicken the night before, making it an effortless dinner option. Just skewer and grill when you're ready to eat!

Finally, these kabobs bring a burst of color to your table. The vibrant mix of bell peppers, onions, and pineapple adds visual appeal and complementary flavors that’ll have everyone’s mouth watering. Let’s jump into the key ingredients you'll need.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs lies in their simple, fresh ingredients. Every component plays a role in elevating the flavor and making these kabobs irresistible.

Chicken Breasts: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They're lean yet become wonderfully tender when marinated. Feel free to substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Honey: The star of the marinade! Honey adds a natural sweetness and helps the chicken caramelize on the grill. If you don’t have honey on hand, agave syrup or maple syrup can work as a substitute.
Soy Sauce: This adds a savory, umami kick to the marinade. Use low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake, or try tamari for a gluten-free version.
Garlic and Ginger: Freshly minced garlic and ginger give the marinade a punch of flavor. If you're in a pinch, garlic powder and ground ginger will do, but fresh is always best.
Bell Peppers and Red Onions: These veggies are classic kabob companions. Their slight char and crisp-tender texture pair beautifully with the chicken. Use any color of bell pepper to keep things colorful!
Pineapple Chunks: This is optional but highly recommended. Pineapple caramelizes on the grill, adding a sweet-tart flavor that complements the honey marinade. If you prefer something milder, use zucchini or mushrooms.

Special Equipment: You’ll need skewers for this recipe. If using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.

How To Make These Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs

Making these Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs is easier than you think. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure you get perfectly grilled kabobs every time.

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, olive oil, freshly minced garlic, and grated ginger. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice. This marinade will work its magic on the chicken, making it both flavorful and juicy.
Marinate the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 1.5-inch cubes and toss them in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but overnight is even better. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavor it absorbs.
Prep the Veggies and Skewers: While the chicken is marinating, chop your bell peppers, red onions, and pineapple into similar-sized chunks. This ensures even cooking on the grill. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Assemble the Kabobs: Alternate pieces of marinated chicken, bell peppers, red onions, and pineapple on the skewers. Be sure not to pack everything too tightly, as this allows for even cooking and that delicious char.
Grill to Perfection: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning every few minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. If you don't have a grill, you can broil them in the oven, turning occasionally.

Once done, serve these kabobs hot and watch them disappear in no time. The total time from start to finish, including marinating and grilling, should be just under an hour, depending on how long you marinate the chicken.

Storage Options

Grilled a few too many kabobs? No problem! These Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs store beautifully.

Refrigerate: Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remove the chicken and veggies from the skewers to make storing easier.
Freeze: You can also freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Place the chicken pieces (without the veggies) in a zip-top bag with the marinade and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then assemble the kabobs with fresh veggies.
Reheat: To reheat, place the kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken may dry out.

Variations and Substitutions

The best thing about these Yummy Honey Chicken Kabobs is how flexible they are. Here are some creative twists you can try.

Protein Options: Not a fan of chicken? Try swapping in shrimp, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Adjust the marinade time accordingly; shrimp, for example, only need about 30 minutes.
Different Veggies: Don’t have bell peppers or red onions? Use zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Mix and match to your heart's content!
Spicy Kick: Add some heat by incorporating sriracha or chili paste into the marinade. The balance of sweet and spicy is sure to wow your taste buds.
Tropical Twist: Use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce and add lime juice to the marinade for a tropical vibe. Pair with mango chunks instead of pineapple for a fun twist.
Herbaceous Flavor: Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the grilled kabobs for a burst of freshness. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for an earthy undertone.

No matter how you customize these kabobs, you’ll end up with a dish that’s packed with flavor and perfect for sharing. Don't be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Happy grilling!