Costco Chicken Kebab Recipe | Easy & Flavorful

Introduction

If you’ve ever savored the juicy, flavorful Costco chicken kebab recipe, you know it’s pure magic on a skewer. This Costco chicken kebab recipe brings the iconic flavors of your favorite store-bought meal straight to your own kitchen. Perfectly marinated and grilled to tender perfection, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. In this guide, you’ll discover step-by-step instructions, pro tips, and creative twists to make these mouthwatering kebabs even better than the original.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Imagine biting into a skewer of chicken that’s bursting with flavor — smoky, savory, and slightly tangy all at once. This Costco chicken kebab recipe delivers all that and more. The marinade deeply infuses the chicken with bold spices, while the grilling process locks in juicy tenderness with a slightly charred, irresistible exterior.

You’ll love how incredibly easy and versatile this recipe is. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or meal prepping ahead of time. Plus, the ingredients are simple and affordable, yet the final dish tastes like a gourmet treat.

The real magic lies in the vibrant balance of spices and the succulent texture. Every bite sings with lemony brightness, warm garlic notes, and a smoky finish that feels like a trip to a Mediterranean grill house. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or treating yourself to something special, these kebabs will quickly become a favorite. Bonus: They’re healthy, low-carb, and protein-packed!

Recipe Details

The inspiration for this Costco chicken kebab recipe comes directly from the beloved skewers available at Costco’s deli section. These skewers are famous for their consistent juiciness and well-seasoned flavor, and recreating them at home means you can control every aspect — from spice level to cooking method.

The technique behind the perfect kebab centers on marination. A good marinade not only flavors the chicken but tenderizes it, ensuring every piece stays moist through grilling. You’ll be using simple culinary techniques like proper skewering, even grilling, and resting the meat post-cooking to keep juices intact.

Culturally, kebabs are a symbol of gatherings and celebrations across many regions, from the Middle East to the Mediterranean. Each bite connects you to centuries of tradition where open-flame cooking transforms simple ingredients into something unforgettable. By mastering this recipe, you’re tapping into an ancient art while making it entirely your own.

Nutritional Information

Each skewer in this Costco chicken kebab recipe is not only delicious but also packs a healthy punch. Here’s a nutritional breakdown per skewer (approximately):

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugar: 1g

Thanks to the lean chicken breast, these kebabs are high in protein, making them an excellent choice for muscle building, weight management, or simply maintaining a balanced diet. The minimal amount of oil used in the marinade ensures you get healthy fats without tipping the calorie scale.

Garlic, lemon, and paprika, prominent in the seasoning, each offer additional health benefits. Garlic boosts the immune system, lemon provides vitamin C and antioxidants, and paprika is rich in Vitamin A. Even the slight char from grilling can enhance flavor without adding unhealthy elements if done correctly.

For those following specific diets, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, low-carb, keto-friendly, and can easily be adapted for paleo or Whole30 lifestyles by adjusting the marinade slightly.

Eating well doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor, and these chicken kebabs prove that healthy eating can be utterly delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for the ultimate Costco chicken kebab recipe:

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1 ½-inch cubes)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Ingredient sourcing tip: Use organic chicken for best results and the freshest garlic and lemons to boost flavor. Smoked paprika adds a rich depth you don’t want to skip!

Equipment Needed

Making a perfect Costco chicken kebab recipe doesn’t require fancy gear, but having the right tools ensures success:

• Grill or Grill Pan: A gas grill, charcoal grill, or a stovetop grill pan works beautifully.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken evenly.
• Skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and heat-resistant, while soaked wooden skewers are a great affordable option.
• Tongs: Essential for turning the kebabs without piercing them.
• Instant-read thermometer: To guarantee juicy, properly cooked chicken without guessing.

Alternative options: If you don’t have a grill, you can use your oven’s broiler function or even an air fryer! The essential goal is to achieve that golden, slightly charred exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Pro Tips For Success

Perfecting your Costco chicken kebab recipe is all about mastering the little details. Follow these pro tips to achieve amazing results:

• Marinate Long Enough: Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours — overnight if possible. The longer the marination, the deeper the flavor.
• Cut Uniform Pieces: Keeping the chicken pieces uniform ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t Overcrowd Skewers: Leave a little space between pieces on the skewers to allow even cooking and better char marks.
• Preheat the Grill: Make sure your grill or grill pan is hot before adding the kebabs to lock in juices and create beautiful grill marks.
• Use Two Skewers Per Kebab (Optional): This trick prevents the chicken pieces from spinning around when you turn them.
• Check Internal Temperature: Chicken is perfectly cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Overcooking will dry out the meat.
• Rest After Grilling: Let the kebabs rest for 5 minutes before serving. This redistributes the juices inside the meat for extra moistness.

Avoid common mistakes like skipping the marinade, using low heat, or constantly flipping the skewers too soon, which can result in dry or unevenly cooked chicken.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken into the marinade. Toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
4. Preheat Your Grill: Heat your grill (or grill pan) to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Grill the Kebabs: Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely charred and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove from the grill and let the kebabs rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Visual cues: Look for grill marks, golden-brown coloring, and a firm but juicy texture when the kebabs are ready.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize your Costco chicken kebab recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs:

• Spicy Version: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
• Herby Twist: Mix in fresh chopped cilantro or parsley for a bright herbal note.
• Mediterranean Style: Add a dash of ground coriander and sumac for deeper Middle Eastern flavors.
• Vegetable Kebabs: Alternate chicken pieces with bell peppers, onions, and zucchini on the skewers.
• Low-Sodium Adaptation: Reduce the salt and boost flavor with more herbs and lemon zest.

For a fun twist, try using thighs instead of breasts — they’re even juicier and more forgiving if overcooked.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage ensures your Costco chicken kebab recipe remains delicious even as leftovers:

• Refrigerate: Store cooled kebabs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Remove chicken from skewers and freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm gently in a 350°F oven or on a grill to retain moisture without overcooking.

Frozen kebabs are fantastic for quick lunches or weeknight dinners, tasting just as juicy and flavorful when reheated properly.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken kebabs pair wonderfully with a wide variety of sides:

• Grains: Serve over fluffy couscous, lemon rice, or quinoa.
• Salads: A fresh Greek salad or a cucumber yogurt salad makes a refreshing side.
• Sauces: Drizzle with tzatziki, hummus, or a zesty chimichurri sauce for added flair.

Presentation tip: Serve the skewers directly on a wooden board with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a stunning, rustic look.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these kebabs?
Yes! Bake at 425°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

2. Can I use chicken thighs?
Absolutely — thighs stay extra juicy and flavorful.

3. How long should I marinate?
At least 2 hours; overnight is best for maximum flavor.

4. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance.

5. How do I prevent dry chicken?
Don’t overcook and rest the kebabs before serving.

6. Are these gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this Costco chicken kebab recipe are naturally gluten-free.

7. What if I don’t have a grill?
Use a grill pan, broiler, or air fryer.

8. Can I freeze them raw?
Yes, freeze marinated raw chicken and thaw before cooking.

9. What’s the best way to reheat?
Gently warm in the oven or on a grill over low heat.

10. Are they good for meal prep?
Definitely! They reheat beautifully for lunches or dinners.

Conclusion

This Costco chicken kebab recipe isn’t just a meal — it’s a full-flavored experience that brings vibrant, smoky, and juicy perfection to your table. Every bite is a reminder that simple ingredients, when prepared with care and love, can become something truly extraordinary.

By following this guide, you now have all the tips, techniques, and ideas you need to master kebab-making at home. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your creative twists, these skewers are guaranteed to impress family and friends.

So fire up that grill, gather your favorite people, and enjoy the unbeatable flavors of these homemade chicken kebabs. Happy cooking!

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