Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

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Sweet and spicy grilled kabobs ready for serving
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Last updated on June 8, 2025

When the sun shines brightly and the weather is inviting, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and indulging in some delicious kabobs. They’re fun, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Among the myriad of options, Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs stand out. This dish is perfect for summer cookouts, backyard parties, or a cozy family dinner. With a delightful sweet and spicy marinade that brings out the best in chicken and colorful vegetables, these kabobs will have everyone coming back for more.

So let’s dive into this easy-to-make and delicious kabob recipe that brings a burst of flavor in every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs offer a perfect balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The sweetness from honey harmonizes beautifully with the sharp soy sauce and kick from chili flakes, while the fresh vegetables add a delightful crunch. Not only are they incredibly tasty, but kabobs are also super easy to prepare, making them a great option for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Plus, they’re visually stunning! The vibrant colors of the peppers and onions alongside the juicy chicken make for an inviting dish that’s perfect for sharing. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, these kabobs are bound to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

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Sweet and spicy grilled kabobs ready for serving

Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

  • Author: Sarah Mendez
  • Total Time: 32 minutes (plus marinating time)
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
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Description

These Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs are the perfect combination of bold flavors and vibrant colors. Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a sweet and savory glaze, then grilled to perfection with colorful vegetables for a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Kabobs:

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into squares
  • 1 green bell pepper, cut into squares
  • 1 onion, cut into chunks

For the Marinade:

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Zucchini, sliced into half-moons
  • Cherry tomatoes, whole
  • Pineapple chunks, fresh or canned

Instructions

  1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken cubes in a ziplock bag or bowl and pour in the marinade. Toss to coat and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor).
  3. Assemble the Kabobs: Thread marinated chicken, bell peppers, onion, and any optional add-ons (like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple) onto skewers.
  4. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
  5. Grill the Kabobs: Place the kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
  6. Serve: Serve hot with rice, salad, or a dipping sauce of your choice.

Notes

  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  • Cut all ingredients to a uniform size to ensure even cooking.
  • Leftovers make a great wrap or rice bowl filling.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Asian-Inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2 kabobs
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 16g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: undefined
  • Trans Fat: undefined
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: grilled chicken kabobs, spicy kabobs, sweet and tangy skewers, summer grilling, chicken skewers with vegetables

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs:

To make these delicious kabobs, gather the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients:

  • 1 lb chicken breast: Cut into cubes for easy threading and grilling.
  • 1 red bell pepper: Cut into squares to add sweetness and color.
  • 1 green bell pepper: Cut into squares for a contrasting flavor and beautiful presentation.
  • 1 onion: Cut into squares, which will caramelize beautifully when grilled.
  • 1/4 cup honey: This will add sweetness to balance out the spicy elements.
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce: Provides a salty, savory element.
  • 2 tablespoons garlic, minced: Adds a lovely aromatic flavor to the marinade.
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced: Offers a warm spice that enhances the overall profile.
  • 1 teaspoon chili flakes: For that touch of heat.
  • Salt and pepper to taste: To enhance all the flavors.

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Zucchini: Cut into half-moons for extra veggies.
  • Cherry tomatoes: Adds a burst of flavor and color.
  • Pineapple chunks: Provides a juicy sweetness that complements the dish.

How to Make Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating your Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs is simple and rewarding. Let’s break down the process step by step:

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  1. Prepare the Marinade:
    In a mixing bowl, combine the honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Using a whisk or fork, stir the mixture until it is well blended. This marinade will be the star of the dish, infusing the chicken with rich flavors.

  2. Marinate the Chicken:
    Once your marinade is ready, add the cubed chicken breast into the bowl. Ensure each piece is well coated with the marinade. For best results, cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it marinate for a couple of hours or even overnight will deepen the flavors significantly.

  3. Preheat Your Grill:
    As your chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn white hot. For a gas grill, preheat all burners.

  4. Pre

    pare the Skewers:
    If you are using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for about 30 minutes beforehand. This prevents them from burning on the grill. If using metal skewers, simply ensure they are clean and ready to go.

  5. Assemble the Kabobs:
    Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, alternating with squares of the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking and to allow flavors to mingle.

  6. Grill the Kabobs:
    Place the kabobs on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning occasionally. You want the chicken to be cooked through and the vegetables to be tender. Ideally, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

  7. Ser

    ve Hot:
    Once the kabobs are done, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a minute. Then serve them hot, straight off the grill. Enjoy your Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs for a delightful meal!

    8. Serving Suggestions for Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

    Your grilled kabobs can be enjoyed in countless ways! Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

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    • Serve with Rice or Couscous: A bed of fluffy rice or couscous can soak up the flavorful juices from the kabobs.
    • Pair with a Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with leafy greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette will complement the kabobs beautifully.
    • Add Dipping Sauces: Offer some extra sauces on the side, such as soy sauce or a spicy aioli, for dipping.
    • Homemade Flatbreads: Serve the kabobs wrapped in warm, homemade flatbreads for a fun twist.
    • Tasty Grilled Vegetables: Add more grilled vegetables on the side, such as corn on the cob or grilled eggplant, for a hearty meal.

      • Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

      To ensure your kabobs turn out perfectly every time, consider these handy pro tips:

      • Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: Leave space between the pieces of chicken and veggies. This helps them cook evenly.
      • Use Fresh Ingredients: The freshness of your ingredients can greatly affect flavor, so opt for fresh veggies and herbs whenever possible.
      • Alternate Cooking Methods: If grilling isn’t an option, you can also make these kabobs in the oven, under the broiler, or even on a stovetop grill pan. Just keep an eye on the cooking time.
      • Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the ingredients in the marinade based on your preference. Add more chili flakes for extra heat or try adding a splash of lime juice for brightness.
      • Rest the Kabobs Before Serving: Letting the kabobs rest for a minute after grilling ensures that the juices remain locked in, keeping the meat tender and flavorful.

      ding" id="easy-variations-for-sweet-tangy-and-spicy-grilled-kabobs">Easy Variations for Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

      While Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs are delicious as they are, you can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes:

      Storage Tips to Store Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

      If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely as they are that good!), here’s how to store them:

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    • Refrigerate: Place the cooled kabobs in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • Freeze: To keep them longer, you can freeze them in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
    • Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, you can reheat kabobs in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

      • Conclusion

      Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs are a delicious way to enjoy flavors that are vibrant and exciting. With an easy preparation process and the ability to customize based on your preferences, these kabobs are a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a gathering or just a casual weeknight meal, these kabobs are sure to satisfy appetites and bring smiles to the table. So grab your skewers, fire up the grill, and let the flavor party begin!

      FAQs About Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs

      1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

      Yes, frozen chicken can be used, but make sure it is fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

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      2. How can I make the kabobs spicier?

      For an extra kick, increase the amount of chili flakes or add fresh chopped jalapeños to the marinade.

      3. What’s the best way to prevent the skewers from burning?

      Soaking wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them can prevent burning on the grill.

      4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

      Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.

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      5. Can I prepare the marinade in advance?

      Absolutely! You can prepare the marinade up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.

      Now go out there and create these delicious Sweet, Tangy, and Spicy Grilled Kabobs that will undoubtedly be the star of your next meal! Enjoy!

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