Shish Kabob Marinade for Chicken and Steak

Name: Shish Kabob Marinade for Chicken and Steak
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cloves garlic, crushed and roughly chopped; 1 cup vegetable oil (or avocado oil); ¼ cup soy sauce; ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce; ¼ cup Dijon mustard; ¼ cup lemon juice; Pinch kosher salt; 1-2 teaspoons ground pepper; 2 ½ lbs sirloin or New York Strip steak, cut into cubes; 2 ½ lbs chicken breast, cubed; 1-2 onions (Walla-Walla, Vidalia, or red onions); 1-2 bell peppers (mixed colors); 1 lb mushrooms (optional); ½ fresh pineapple, cut into large chunks; 1-2 zucchini, sliced into ½ inch discs; 1 carton grape tomatoes

By:

Lena Carter

March 28, 2026

Deliciously marinated Shish Kabob with chicken and steak ready for grilling

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Shish Kabob Marinade for Chicken and Steak: A Flavorful Adventure

When summer rolls around and the grill beckons, nothing tantalizes the tastebuds quite like shish kabobs. A delightful combination of marinated chicken and steak, paired with vibrant vegetables, these skewers bring joy to any gathering or intimate family dinner. Their versatility and bold flavors make them a summertime staple, and there’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma wafting through the air as you grill these delicious bites. I still remember the first time my family and I enjoyed homemade kabobs; the love and laughter shared around the grill created lasting memories, and I’d love to share that experience with you.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

You might be wondering why you should take the time to make shish kabobs at home. Here’s the scoop: they are incredibly customizable and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a festive cookout with friends. Shish kabobs offer a delightful way to enjoy fresh ingredients, marinated to perfection.

"The best kabobs I’ve ever made! Juicy, flavorful, and a hit with everyone at the BBQ!" – A happy home cook

Beyond being delicious, this recipe is simple and budget-friendly—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t have hours to spare. And with countless ingredient variations, everyone can create their ideal mix.

Preparing Shish Kabob Marinade for Chicken and Steak

Creating the perfect shish kabob marinade is key to achieving that exquisite flavor. This step-by-step overview will guide you through the process effortlessly:

Gather your ingredients (list provided below).
Prepare the marinade using a whisk.
Cut the meats into cubes and marinate.
Prep your vegetables and assembly.
Grill and enjoy your kabobs.

Let’s dive deeper into what you will need!

Ingredients

To whip up this scrumptious dish, gather the following:

2 cloves garlic, crushed and roughly chopped
1 cup vegetable oil (I opted for avocado oil, but any oil works)
¼ cup soy sauce (Bragg’s or Tamari if gluten-free)
¼ cup Worcestershire sauce (Lee & Perrin’s recommended for gluten-free)
¼ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup lemon juice, preferably fresh
Pinch kosher salt
1-2 teaspoons ground pepper
2 ½ lbs sirloin (or New York Strip steak, cut into cubes)
2 ½ lbs chicken breast, cubed
1-2 onions (such as Walla-Walla, Vidalia, or red onions)
1-2 bell peppers (mix colors for visual appeal)
1 lb mushrooms (optional)
½ fresh pineapple, cut into large chunks
1-2 zucchini, sliced into ½ inch discs (or summer squash)
1 carton grape tomatoes

Feel free to experiment with different veggies or protein swaps based on your preferences!

Directions to Follow

In a medium bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients until well combined.
Cut your beef and chicken into 1 ½ inch cubes and place them in a shallow dish or separate container if marinating for longer than 4 hours.
Pour the marinade over the meat, stirring to coat all sides. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for 4–6 hours, or overnight if you can.
When ready, prepare the vegetables and pineapple, cutting them into sizable chunks. Remove stems from mushrooms.
Assemble the kabobs by alternating meat and veggies on skewers. Reserve some marinade for basting later.
Grill the kabobs over medium-high heat for 4-5 minutes per side, turning occasionally and basting with reserved marinade.
Once done, remove from the grill and cover with foil for 1-2 minutes to let them rest.
Carefully slide the kabobs off the skewers and serve over rice or with your favorite salad.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Your kabobs are ready, but how do you serve them? For a delightful meal, serve these skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a fresh green salad. For a fun twist, try including various dipping sauces on the side—like tzatziki, barbecue sauce, or a zesty chimichurri. Add grilled pita bread and a refreshing beverage for a complete Mediterranean experience!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you’ve got leftovers, storing them properly ensures they don’t go to waste. Place the unused kabobs in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes to maintain their juicy texture.

For longer storage, feel free to freeze the cooked kabobs in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Just remember to let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!

Helpful Cooking Tips

Marination time matters: For the best flavor, allow your meat to marinate for at least 4 hours, but letting it sit overnight can deepen the flavor significantly.
Soak your skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
Veggie sizes: Cut your vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you can try:

Add spices: Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for an extra flavor dimension.
Go vegetarian: Swap the meat for tofu or extra vegetables like eggplant and squash for a delightful veggie version.
Tropical twist: Use mango slices instead of pineapple for a sweet twist!

Common Questions

How long should I marinate the chicken and steak?

It’s best to marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight will give even more flavor.

Can I use other meats?

Absolutely! Pork or shrimp are excellent alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I store leftovers safely?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them for later enjoyment.

By following this detailed guide, you’ll find that making delicious shish kabobs at home is not just easy but also rewarding. Happy grilling!