Costco Chicken Kebab Recipe
Craving those iconic Costco chicken kebabs? This recipe brings all the flavors of Costco’s food court straight to your grill. Tender chunks of chicken are marinated in a zesty blend of garlic, lemon, olive oil, and spices, then skewered with colorful veggies for a vibrant, satisfying dish. Paired with a side of rice, salad, or pita bread, these kebabs are perfect for dinner, parties, or meal prep.
I remember the first time I tried Costco’s chicken kebabs—it was one of those lazy afternoons when I needed something quick but satisfying. The combination of smoky grilled chicken, tender veggies, and bold marinade was unforgettable. Now, this recipe is my go-to whenever I want to recreate that experience at home.
Why You’ll Love This Costco-Inspired Chicken Kebab Recipe
This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll adore it:
- Simple Ingredients: With pantry staples like olive oil, garlic, lemon, and spices, this recipe is easy to whip up.
- Bold Flavors: The marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy, savory, and slightly spicy kick that’s hard to resist.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, adjust the spice level, or serve it with different sides to make it your own.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, backyard barbecue, or meal prep, this recipe fits the bill.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love helping assemble the skewers and enjoy the mild, approachable flavors.
How to Make It
Making these Costco-inspired chicken kebabs is as easy as marinating, skewering, and grilling. Here’s an overview of how we’ll bring this recipe to life:
We’ll start by preparing the marinade—a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, oregano, and a touch of cayenne for heat. Toss bite-sized pieces of chicken in the marinade and let them soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight for maximum impact).
While the chicken marinates, chop your favorite veggies like bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes.
Once the chicken is ready, thread it onto skewers along with the veggies, alternating for a colorful presentation.
Grill the kebabs over medium-high heat until the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender and slightly charred.
Serve the kebabs hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and your choice of sides—rice, pita bread, or a simple salad all pair beautifully.
Each bite will be a perfect balance of juicy chicken, smoky veggies, and bold marinade flavors.
Make Ahead Method
If you’re someone who loves being prepared (and let’s face it, life is so much easier when you are), these Costco-inspired chicken kebabs are perfect for make-ahead cooking. Here’s how you can plan ahead and save yourself some time:
Marinate the Chicken in Advance: One of the best things about this recipe is that you can prep the chicken a day or two ahead of time. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and tossing them with the marinade—a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Place the marinated chicken in an airtight container or resealable bag and store it in the fridge. This step not only saves time but also allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken more deeply, making it even tastier when you’re ready to grill.
Prep the Veggies Ahead of Time: Chop the bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and any other veggies you plan to use a day ahead and store them in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This cuts down on prep time significantly when you’re ready to assemble the skewers. If you’re using mushrooms or zucchini, pat them dry with paper towels before storing to prevent excess moisture from making them soggy.
Assemble the Skewers in Advance: If you’re prepping for a party or event, thread the chicken and veggies onto skewers a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap or place them in a large container to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to cook, simply transfer the skewers to the grill and cook as directed. This method is especially handy if you’re hosting a gathering and want to minimize last-minute work.
Freeze for Long-Term Storage: If you’re prepping for the future, freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Portion the chicken into individual servings for easy thawing. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight, then thread it onto skewers with fresh veggies and grill as directed.
This make-ahead method is especially handy during busy weeks or when you’re meal prepping for the family. It allows you to break the process into manageable steps without sacrificing flavor or quality.
Pro Tips
Use Metal or Soaked Wooden Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and eliminate the soaking step, but they can get very hot, so use tongs or a mitt when handling them. Flat metal skewers are ideal because they prevent the food from spinning when you flip them.
Choose Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken and veggies into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Bite-sized pieces work best for easy grilling and eating. For example, aim for 1-inch cubes of chicken and similarly sized chunks of bell peppers and onions. Smaller pieces cook faster, while larger pieces may need more time on the grill.
Don’t Skip the Marinade Time: Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) ensures it’s packed with flavor. The acid in the lemon juice helps tenderize the chicken, while the spices infuse it with bold, savory notes. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes of marinating makes a difference, but longer is always better.
Grill Over Medium-High Heat: Cooking the kebabs over medium-high heat ensures the chicken stays juicy while the veggies get tender and slightly charred. Avoid high heat, which can burn the outside before the chicken is fully cooked. If you notice the veggies are cooking too quickly, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking the chicken.
Add Freshness with Garnishes: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, or a dollop of tzatziki sauce adds brightness and balances the bold flavors. If you’re serving these kebabs at a gathering, set out bowls of toppings like extra lemon wedges, hummus, or a simple yogurt-cucumber sauce so everyone can customize their plate.
Serve with Sides: Pair the kebabs with rice pilaf, pita bread, or a Greek salad for a complete meal. Hummus, tabbouleh, or roasted potatoes also work beautifully. For a low-carb option, serve the kebabs over cauliflower rice or a bed of greens.
Reheat Properly: To reheat leftover kebabs, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the flavors if needed. Avoid reheating on high heat, as it can dry out the chicken and overcook the veggies.
Storage Options
Once you’ve made these kebabs, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Beyond that, they should be refrigerated to prevent spoilage.
- Refrigerator: Store leftover kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then thread onto skewers and grill as directed.
Tools For This Recipe
You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these kebabs, but having the right tools can make the process smoother:
- Skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and eliminate the soaking step, but wooden skewers work too if soaked beforehand.
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: Handy for slicing chicken and veggies evenly.
- Grill or Grill Pan: Perfect for achieving that smoky, charred flavor. If you don’t have a grill, a grill pan or even a broiler works well.
- Tongs: Great for flipping the skewers on the grill without losing pieces.
FAQs!
Can I use tofu instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for cubed tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. Marinate it in the same mixture and grill until golden brown.
What kind of veggies work best?
Bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms all work beautifully. Choose veggies that hold up well on the grill and complement the chicken.
Can I bake these instead of grilling?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes! Add extra cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or sliced jalapeños to the marinade for extra heat.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to get creative with these kebabs. Here are some ideas:
- Add Pineapple or Mango: For a sweet twist, thread chunks of pineapple or mango onto the skewers alongside the chicken and veggies.
- Try Different Proteins: Use shrimp, beef, pork, or lamb instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
- Make It Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve the kebabs with a side of cauliflower rice or a fresh salad.
- Switch Up the Spices: Use curry powder, za’atar, or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Wrapping It Up: A Taste of Costco Comfort
There’s nothing quite like the combination of juicy chicken, smoky veggies, and bold marinade flavors in these Costco-inspired chicken kebabs . They’re proof that simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, hosting a barbecue, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Now it’s your turn! Whip up a batch of these kebabs and let me know how they turned out in the comments below. Did you stick to the classic recipe, or did you try one of the variations? Share your thoughts—I’d love to hear from you!
Costco-Inspired Chicken Kebabs
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice plus wedges for serving
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for heat
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 red bell pepper cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper cut into chunks
- 1 red onion cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Optional: fresh parsley tzatziki sauce, or hummus for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Marinade
- Start by gathering your ingredients. In a mixing bowl, whisk together 3 tablespoons of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional, depending on your spice preference). Season the mixture generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and spices creates a bold, tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with flavor. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness, while cumin and oregano bring warmth and earthiness. Cayenne pepper adds a touch of heat, but you can omit it if you prefer a milder dish.
Step 2: Marinating the Chicken
- Cut 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Aim for 1-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Add the chicken to the marinade and toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is well-covered. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable bag.
- If you’re prepping ahead, place the marinated chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor). This step allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken, making it juicier and more flavorful when you’re ready to grill. If you’re short on time, even 15 minutes of marinating makes a difference.
Step 3: Prepping the Veggies
- While the chicken marinates, chop your veggies. Cut 1 red bell pepper, 1 green bell pepper, and 1 red onion into 1-inch chunks. Halve 1 cup of cherry tomatoes if they’re large. If you’re using mushrooms or zucchini, slice them into thick pieces to prevent them from falling apart on the grill.
- If you’re prepping ahead, store the chopped veggies in separate airtight containers in the fridge. Pat mushrooms and zucchini dry with paper towels before storing to prevent excess moisture from making them soggy.
Step 4: Assembling the Skewers
- If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and eliminate the soaking step, but they can get very hot, so use tongs or a mitt when handling them.
- Thread the marinated chicken and veggies onto skewers, alternating between chicken, bell peppers, onions, and cherry tomatoes. Start and end with veggies to prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill. Pack the ingredients snugly but not too tightly—this ensures even cooking and prevents the skewers from falling apart.
- If you’re prepping ahead, cover the assembled skewers tightly with plastic wrap or place them in a large container and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. This method is especially handy if you’re hosting a gathering and want to minimize last-minute work.
Step 5: Grilling the Kebabs
- Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with white ash and the grill is hot. If you’re using a gas grill, preheat it to medium-high heat (around 400°F/200°C).
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C) and the veggies are tender and slightly charred. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s doneness. If you notice the veggies are cooking too quickly, move the skewers to a cooler part of the grill to finish cooking the chicken.
Step 6: Resting and Serving
- Once the kebabs are grilled, remove them from the heat and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist and flavorful. Serve the kebabs hot with lemon wedges, fresh parsley, and your choice of sides like rice, pita bread, or salad. For an extra touch, drizzle a little olive oil or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese on top.
- If you’re serving these kebabs at a gathering, set out bowls of toppings like extra lemon wedges, hummus, or a simple yogurt-cucumber sauce so everyone can customize their plate. Pair them with crusty bread or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Notes
Calories: 320 | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 38g | Sugar: 6g
