Chicken Nugget Vegetable Kabobs Recipe

ByJames Level

Creating recipes that are easy and fun to make yet still burst with flavor is my secret sauce. And one of my favorite recipes in that category is Chicken Nugget Vegetable Kabobs.

The traditional appeal of chicken nuggets gets a nutritional makeover in this dish, which combines them with the vibrant vitamins of fresh vegetables. I often use frozen chicken nuggets for speed, but feel free to use homemade nuggets instead.

It’s hard to beat a meal with the intense visual appeal and delightful flavor combination of chicken nuggets, brightly-colored bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes skewered and grilled to perfection. And there’s nothing like combining sautéed red onions with the nuggets, the fresh crunch of the peppers, and the juicy tomatoes to catch a Mediterranean-flavored wave of health.

Seasoning with salt and pepper while tossing in olive oil, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning ups the flavor ante even more and makes these skewers a balanced meal you can feel good about. No concealed veggies here: just a colorful way to get your vitamins.

Ingredients photo for Chicken Nugget Vegetable Kabobs Recipe

Ingredients

Ingredients photo for Chicken Nugget Vegetable Kabobs Recipe

Chicken Nuggets:
Delivers protein; contributes a deliciously crispy, savory note.

Red Bell Pepper:
Abundant in vitamin C while contributing sweetness and crispness.

Zucchini:
Few calories; a good source of fiber; and a delicate, pleasing taste.

Cherry Tomatoes:
Rich in antioxidants; contributes moisture and sharp flavor.

Olive Oil:
Serves as a luscious source of healthful fats; enriches taste.

Garlic Powder:
Provides richness; reputed for its immunity-enhancing effects.

Ingredient Quantities

  • 12 chicken nuggets (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 medium red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 medium yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

  • 1 medium zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices

  • 1 small red onion, cut into wedges

  • 12 cherry tomatoes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Heat your grill or oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Follow the package instructions or your own recipe to prepare the chicken nuggets, then allow them to cool for a few moments.

3. In a substantial mixing bowl, combine the bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

4. Take a chicken nugget and push a skewer through it. Next, place a piece of red bell pepper on the skewer. Then add a slice of zucchini, followed by a wedge of red onion, a piece of yellow bell pepper, and finally, a cherry tomato. Continue adding these same items, in the same order, until the skewer is full. Do not pack the food too tightly; leave space both at the top and bottom of the skewer so you can hold it and so that the food can cook evenly.

5. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them to prevent burning.

6. If you are using an oven, place the kabobs on a baking sheet; if using a grill, place the kabobs directly on the grill.

7. Grill the kabobs for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Or, bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes.

8. Reheat the chicken nuggets completely, and prepare the vegetables to your desired doneness.

9. Take the kabobs off the grill or out of the oven and allow them to cool for just a moment before serving.

10. The Chicken Nugget Vegetable Kabobs should be served right away, either alone or with your favorite dipping sauce. You shouldn’t feel ashamed to enjoy it just as you would any other chicken nugget.

Equipment Needed

1. Barbecue or use an oven
Oven baking sheet
3. Large mixing bowl
4. Spoons for measuring
5. Cutlery
6. Board, cutting
7. Tongs or kabob-turning tool (optional)
8. Skewers made of wood or metal
9. Tray or plate (for assembling kebabs)
10. Platter or serving plate

FAQ

  • Can I use frozen chicken nuggets for this recipe?Certainly! You may use frozen chicken nuggets. Just be certain to prepare them according to the packaging instructions prior to putting the kabobs together.

  • How do I prevent wooden skewers from burning?Before using the wooden skewers, submerge them in water. They should remain in the water for at least 30 minutes. That will prevent the skewers from burning while you cook.

  • What is the best way to grill these kabobs?Heat your grill to medium-high. Put the assembled kabobs on the grill. Turn them every so often for about 10-12 minutes or until the vegetables have achieved tenderness and a nice char.

  • Can I add other vegetables to the kabobs?Certainly! You can add mushrooms, asparagus, or any other vegetables you like. Just be sure to cut them all to a similar size so they cook evenly.

  • Are there any dipping sauces that pair well with these kabobs?Ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard served on the side for dipping make these kabobs taste even better.

  • How long can I store leftover kabobs?Keep uneaten kabobs in a tightly sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven.

Substitutions and Variations

Nuggets de pollo: Reemplace con cubos de tofu o bolas de falafel para una opción vegetariana.
Use green bell pepper or poblano pepper for a different flavor.
Zucchini: Use yellow squash or eggplant to get the same texture.
Substitute white onion or shallots for a milder taste in place of red onion.
Grape tomatoes or chunks of fresh pineapple can be used for a sweet variation.