Fig and Chicken Kebabs: The Ultimate Sweet and Savory High-Protein Skewer
Experience a flavor-packed, high-protein dinner with fresh figs, tender chicken, and a zesty marmalade-balsamic glaze, all grilled to perfection.
Bring gourmet grilling to your backyard with Fig and Chicken Kebabs. This irresistible recipe pairs tender chicken breasts with fresh figs and a luscious orange marmalade-balsamic glaze. Each skewer is a delicious balance of sweet and savory, making it perfect for anyone who loves healthy, high-protein meals that don’t skimp on flavor.
Why You’ll Love Fig and Chicken Kebabs
- Protein-packed: Ideal for building muscle and keeping you full.
- Fresh figs: Offer natural sweetness and a wonderful texture contrast.
- Zesty glaze: The marinade blends citrus and balsamic for umami depth.
- Quick grilling: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a showy main at your next BBQ.
- Simple ingredients: Everything on this ingredient list is easy to find and brings robust nutrition to your table.
Ingredients for Fig and Chicken Kebabs
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 1 1/4 lbs | Cut into bite-sized chunks |
| Fresh figs | 8 (halved) | For best flavor, use ripe figs |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | For brushing and added richness |
| Kosher salt | 1/2 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Freshly ground, if possible |
| Orange marmalade | 2 tbsp | Provides bright citrus sweetness |
| Balsamic vinegar | 1 tbsp | For that tangy finish |
Optional Additions & Substitutions
- Swap chicken for turkey breast if desired, or use firm tofu for a vegetarian adaptation.
- Dried figs can be used if fresh are unavailable, but soak them first to rehydrate.
- Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for extra earthy notes.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, or prepare a grill pan on your stovetop.
- Assemble the skewers:
- Thread chicken pieces and fig halves alternately onto metal or pre-soaked wooden skewers.
- Brush skewers lightly with olive oil, then season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Grill the kebabs:
- Place skewers directly on the grill or grill pan.
- Cook, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and figs have softened, about 5–7 minutes total. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for chicken.
- Prepare the glaze:
- In a small bowl, mix the orange marmalade with the balsamic vinegar until well combined.
- Glaze and finish:
- Brush glaze generously over skewers during the last minute of grilling for optimal caramelization and flavor.
- Serve immediately:
- Remove skewers from grill, transfer to a serving platter, and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Balsamic-Orange Fig Glaze: Secret to Spectacular Flavor
The glaze in this recipe is the secret weapon: orange marmalade adds a sunny, fruity brightness while balsamic vinegar gives a tangy depth. Together, with the caramelization from grilling, you get a sticky, sweet-savory finish that truly elevates both the chicken and figs.
Tips for the Perfect Glaze
- Use high-quality balsamic vinegar for the best flavor complexity.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat or a squeeze of lemon for extra zip.
- For a silkier texture, warm the glaze gently before brushing onto skewers.
Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 286
- Protein: 29g
- Carbs: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 23g (6g added sugars)
- Fat: 7g (1.5g saturated)
- Cholesterol: 78mg
- Sodium: 316mg
What others are reading
Why Figs?
- Natural sweetness keeps added sugars low.
- Rich in fiber for healthy digestion.
- Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with whole grains: Serve over a bed of quinoa, couscous, or farro for a more filling meal.
- Add a simple green salad: Peppery arugula with lemon vinaigrette works wonders alongside this dish.
- Finish with a yogurt dip: Serve with a tangy Greek yogurt sauce or tzatziki for creaminess.
Grilling Tips for Success
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill—leave space for air to circulate and ensure even cooking.
- Use a grill pan for easier flipping or if dealing with delicate figs.
- Let chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving to retain juices.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Marinate the chicken and figs in advance (skip the glaze) — up to 12 hours in the fridge boosts flavor and makes dinner come together even faster.
- Leftover kebabs store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—enjoy cold or reheat gently.
- Repurpose extras by adding to salads, wraps, or grain bowls for lunch the next day.
The Health Benefits of Chicken and Figs
Choosing meals that combine lean protein with naturally sweet fruits is a proven strategy for healthier eating. Here’s why this recipe stands out nutritionally:
- Lean chicken breast provides complete protein with minimal fat, supporting muscle growth and recovery.
- Figs are full of fiber, potassium, and a variety of phytonutrients for immune support and digestive health.
- Olive oil contributes heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
- Balsamic vinegar offers antioxidants and unique polyphenols.
Simple Variations
- Vegetarian twist: Substitute extra-firm tofu for chicken and use the same marinade and glaze.
- Spice things up: Sprinkle kebabs with red pepper flakes or ground cumin before grilling.
- Mix up the fruit: Fresh apricots or plums pair beautifully with chicken in this style of skewer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use dried figs if fresh aren’t available?
A: Yes. Soak dried figs in warm water for 15–30 minutes before using to rehydrate and soften them. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
Q: What if I don’t have orange marmalade?
A: Substitute with apricot or peach preserves for a similar sweet-and-tangy glaze, or use a bit of honey and fresh orange zest.
Q: Can these kebabs be baked instead of grilled?
A: Yes. Arrange prepared skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and roast at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–18 minutes, turning once. Brush with glaze in the last 2 minutes.
Q: Are fig and chicken kebabs gluten-free?
A: The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check marmalade and balsamic vinegar labels to ensure there are no added gluten-containing ingredients.
Q: What can I serve on the side for a complete meal?
A: Try a whole grain pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad tossed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Expert Tips for Best Results
- Uniform pieces: Cut chicken and figs in similar sizes to ensure even grilling.
- Don’t skip the rest: Letting grilled kebabs sit a minute or two off the heat helps juices redistribute—resulting in tender bites.
- Make extra glaze: Use leftovers as a sauce for roasted vegetables or a dip for fresh pita.
Reader Inspiration: Other Healthy Skewers to Try
- Balsamic-glazed chicken and fig skewers (use coconut oil instead of olive for a tropical twist)
- Chicken and garlic bread kebabs for a Mediterranean take (add wholemeal bread and blood orange slices)
- Greek chicken skewers with spinach and feta (serve with tzatziki and a squeeze of lemon)
Explore More Healthy, Flavorful Recipes
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- The Best Foods and Drinks to Fight Acid Reflux
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How do I know when the chicken is done?
A: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear. Cut into a piece to check if unsure.
Q: Can I prep kebabs ahead of time?
A: Absolutely. Skewer the chicken and figs up to 24 hours in advance, storing covered in the fridge. Brush with oil and season just before grilling.
Q: What’s the best grill temperature for kebabs?
A: Medium heat is ideal—hot enough for good sear marks but not so hot that the delicate figs burn. If using charcoal, wait until the coals have a light layer of ash.
Q: Are these kebabs suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes. Prepare cooked kebabs in advance and reheat gently, or enjoy cold over salads and grain bowls for lunches throughout the week.
References
- https://physicalkitchness.com/balsamic-fig-chicken-skewers/
- https://www.jamieoliver.com/recipes/chicken/chicken-garlic-bread-kebabs/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a34063366/fig-and-chicken-kebabs-recipe/
- https://nonahoodnews.com/katies-cucina-grilled-balsamic-fig-chicken-skewers/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/
- https://preventionrd.com/grilled-greek-chicken-skewers-weekly-menu/
- https://jamiegeller.com/recipes/grilled-chicken-and-fig-kabobs-with-fig-balsamic/
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