Introduction
Grilling chicken shish kabobs on a gas grill is an excellent way to enjoy a delicious meal with friends and family. The succulent, juicy chicken pieces, mixed with flavorful vegetables, make for a satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. However, many people struggle with determining how long to grill chicken shish kabobs on a gas grill.
In this article, we will provide an easy-to-follow guide that will help you cook perfect chicken shish kabobs every time. We will cover everything from preparing the chicken and grill to checking the doneness of the kabobs and serving them up. So, let’s get started!
Preparing the Chicken Shish Kabobs for Grilling
Before we can start grilling our chicken shish kabobs, we need to prepare the chicken correctly. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Selecting the Right Cut of Chicken
When it comes to grilling chicken shish kabobs, it’s essential to choose the right cut of chicken. We recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts of meat are perfect for grilling and won’t dry out too quickly.
Cutting Chicken into Cubes
Once you have the chicken cut selected, it’s time to cut it into cubes. We recommend cutting the chicken into 1-2 inch pieces. Cutting the chicken into smaller pieces ensures that it cooks evenly and faster.
Marinating the Chicken
Marinating the chicken is an essential step in ensuring that it’s full of flavor. There are plenty of marinade recipes to choose from, but we recommend a simple marinade consisting of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, marinate it for up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Gas Grill for Grilling
Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to prepare the gas grill for grilling. Here’s what you need to do:
Preheating the Gas Grill
Before you start grilling your chicken shish kabobs, you need to preheat the gas grill. Turn on the grill and set the temperature to medium-high heat. Close the lid and let the grill heat up for 10-15 minutes.
Cleaning the Grill Grates
While the grill is heating up, it’s time to clean the grill grates. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or remnants from the last time you used the grill. Cleaning the grates ensures that the chicken won’t stick to the grill.
Oil the Grill Grates
After cleaning the grill grates, it’s time to oil them. Dip a folded paper towel in oil and use tongs to rub it over the grill grates. Oiling the grill grates helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill and adds flavor to the chicken.
Preparing the Gas Grill for Grilling
Now that the chicken is ready, it’s time to prepare the gas grill for grilling. Here’s what you need to do:
Preheating the Gas Grill
Before you start grilling your chicken shish kabobs, you need to preheat the gas grill. Turn on the grill and set the temperature to medium-high heat. Close the lid and let the grill heat up for 10-15 minutes.
Cleaning the Grill Grates
While the grill is heating up, it’s time to clean the grill grates. Use a grill brush to remove any debris or remnants from the last time you used the grill. Cleaning the grates ensures that the chicken won’t stick to the grill.
Oil the Grill Grates
After cleaning the grill grates, it’s time to oil them. Dip a folded paper towel in oil and use tongs to rub it over the grill grates. Oiling the grill grates helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill and adds flavor to the chicken.
Grilling the Chicken Shish Kabobs
Now that the gas grill is ready, it’s time to start grilling the chicken shish kabobs. Follow these steps to grill your kabobs to perfection:
Skewering the Chicken
Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with your desired vegetables. Be sure to leave some space between each piece of chicken to allow it to cook evenly.
Placing the Kabobs on the Grill
Once the skewers are ready, it’s time to place them on the grill. Place the kabobs on the preheated grill over direct heat. Close the lid and let them cook for 5-7 minutes.
Flipping the Kabobs
After 5-7 minutes, it’s time to flip the kabobs. Use tongs to turn the skewers over, and cook for another 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on the kabobs to ensure that they don’t overcook. You want the chicken to be cooked through but not dry.
Repeat the process of flipping the kabobs until they are fully cooked. The total cooking time for chicken shish kabobs on a gas grill varies depending on the size of the chicken cubes and the heat of the grill. As a general rule, chicken shish kabobs take around 10-15 minutes to cook thoroughly.
Checking the Doneness of the Chicken Shish Kabobs
It’s essential to check the doneness of the chicken shish kabobs before serving them. Here are two ways to check if the chicken is fully cooked:
Using a Meat Thermometer
Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature should read 165°F (75°C) or higher. If the temperature is lower, cook the kabobs for a few more minutes.
Checking the Color and Texture of Chicken
Cut into one of the chicken cubes to check the color and texture. The chicken should be white in color, and the juices should run clear. If the chicken is pink or the juices are cloudy, continue cooking the kabobs for a few more minutes.
Conclusion
Grilling chicken shish kabobs on a gas grill is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. By following this guide, you now know how to prepare the chicken and grill, grill the kabobs, and check the doneness of the chicken. Remember to preheat the grill, clean and oil the grates, and keep an eye on the kabobs to ensure they don’t overcook.
At Reviews AZ, we’re committed to providing you with the latest tips and advice on various topics, including grilling. We hope this guide has been helpful, and we encourage you to experiment with different marinades and seasonings to find your perfect chicken shish kabob recipe. Happy grilling!
Checking the Doneness of the Chicken Shish Kabobs
Checking the doneness of the chicken shish kabobs is essential to ensure that they are safe to eat and cooked to perfection. Here are two ways to check the doneness of the chicken:
Using a Meat Thermometer
Using a meat thermometer is the most accurate way to check the doneness of the chicken shish kabobs. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). If the chicken has not reached this temperature, continue grilling until it does.
Checking the Color and Texture of Chicken
Another way to check the doneness of the chicken shish kabobs is by checking the color and texture of the chicken. The chicken should be white and opaque, with no pink or red spots. The texture of the chicken should be firm but not tough. If the chicken is still pink or has a rubbery texture, continue grilling until it’s fully cooked.
Serving the Grilled Chicken Shish Kabobs
Once the chicken shish kabobs are fully cooked, it’s time to serve them up. Here are some essential steps to follow:
Removing the Kabobs from the Grill
Using tongs, remove the chicken shish kabobs from the grill and place them on a platter or cutting board. Be careful not to burn yourself.
Letting Them Rest for a Few Minutes
Before serving, let the chicken shish kabobs rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender and flavorful.
Serving with Sides and Garnishes
Finally, it’s time to serve the grilled chicken shish kabobs. We recommend serving them with sides such as rice, salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also garnish the chicken with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, or a drizzle of olive oil.
In conclusion, grilling chicken shish kabobs on a gas grill is a straightforward and delicious way to enjoy a meal with friends and family. By following our guide, you can ensure that your chicken shish kabobs are cooked to perfection every time. Try out different marinades and seasonings to find your favorite flavor combination. Reviews AZ wishes you happy grilling!