Are you ready to take your taste buds on a vibrant adventure? Dive into the delicious world of "Green Tomato and Orange Chicken Kabobs," where juicy chicken thighs meet the tangy freshness of green tomatoes and the sweet zest of oranges. This mouthwatering recipe not only promises a burst of flavors but also presents a stunning visual feast that will impress your family and friends. Perfect for grilling season or a quick weeknight dinner, these kabobs are easy to prepare and cook in just 35 minutes! Get ready to fire up the grill and discover how these unique ingredients come together to create a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is to behold!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken thighs, cubed
- 2 green tomatoes, sliced
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by cutting boneless chicken thighs into uniform 1-inch cubes, ensuring even cooking and consistent size.
- Slice green tomatoes into thick rounds approximately 1/2-inch thick to prevent them from falling apart during grilling.
- Segment the orange by removing all membrane and white pith, cutting into clean, bite-sized pieces that will caramelize nicely on the grill.
- In a mixing bowl, combine chicken cubes with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently toss to ensure even coating of the seasoning.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes prior to prevent burning during grilling.
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, around 400-450°F for optimal chicken cooking and vegetable char.
- Alternately thread chicken, green tomato slices, and orange segments onto skewers, leaving slight space between ingredients for even heat distribution.
- Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, rotating every 3-4 minutes to ensure all sides are evenly cooked and develop beautiful grill marks.
- Check chicken's internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer for safe consumption.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
Tips
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure your chicken thighs are cut into uniform 1-inch cubes. This helps them cook evenly, so you can enjoy perfectly tender bites every time.
- Thick Tomato Slices: Slice your green tomatoes into thick rounds (about 1/2-inch) to prevent them from falling apart on the grill. This way, they’ll hold their shape and add a delightful texture to your kabobs.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, don’t forget to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This simple step prevents them from burning and ensures your kabobs stay intact.
- Preheat for Perfection: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (around 400-450°F) to achieve that perfect char on your chicken and veggies. A hot grill ensures that you get those beautiful grill marks and a delicious caramelization.
- Rotate for Even Cooking: Grill your kabobs for 10-12 minutes, rotating them every 3-4 minutes. This technique ensures that all sides are evenly cooked and enhances the flavor with those enticing grill marks.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees that your kabobs are safe to eat while remaining juicy and flavorful.
- Rest Before Serving: After grilling, allow your kabobs to rest for 3-5 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and tender.
- Garnish for Freshness: For an extra pop of flavor and color, consider garnishing your kabobs with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving. It adds a lovely freshness that complements the dish beautifully!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg