High-Protein Fig and Chicken Kebabs: A Balanced and Flavorful Recipe

A tangy glaze elevates tender meat and sweet fruit for a balanced, crave-worthy dinner.

By Medha deb

Created on Sep 24, 2025

A tangy glaze elevates tender meat and sweet fruit for a balanced, crave-worthy dinner.

High-Protein Fig and Chicken Kebabs Recipe

If you’re searching for a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare meal, look no further than high-protein fig and chicken kebabs. This recipe brings together the tenderness of chicken and the natural sweetness of fresh figs, all enhanced with a tangy marmalade-balsamic glaze. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, these kebabs make a perfect weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

High in protein: Ideal for anyone looking to build or maintain muscle while enjoying satisfying flavors.
Rich in vitamins and minerals: Thanks to figs and lean chicken breast.
Quick to prepare: Ready in less than 30 minutes, perfect for busy lifestyles.
Balanced taste: The savory chicken pairs beautifully with the subtle sweetness of figs and the zingy glaze.
Adaptable: Can be prepared on an outdoor grill, stovetop, or even in the oven with slight variations.

Recipe Overview

This kebab recipe marries the lean protein of chicken breast with the gourmet flair of fresh figs. Finished with a sparkle from orange marmalade and balsamic vinegar, it promises complex flavors with simple preparation steps.

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time	Servings
10 minutes	10-12 minutes	20-25 minutes	4

Ingredients

1 1/4 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
8 fresh figs, halved
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1/2 tsp. Kosher salt
1/2 tsp. black pepper
2 Tbsp. orange marmalade
1 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar

How to Make Fig and Chicken Kebabs

Prepare the ingredients: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks and halve the fresh figs.
Assemble the skewers: Thread alternating pieces of chicken and figs onto skewers for even flavor and cooking.
Season: Brush the skewers with olive oil, then season them with kosher salt and black pepper on all sides.
Grill: Cook the assembled kebabs on a medium grill, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred—about 5 to 7 minutes.
Make the glaze: While kebabs grill, mix orange marmalade with balsamic vinegar in a small bowl. This mixture will enhance the dish with sweet and tangy notes.
Finish and serve: Brush the cooked kebabs with the marmalade-balsamic glaze, allow to sit for a minute for flavors to meld, and serve immediately.

Pro Tip

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning during grilling.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories	Protein	Carbohydrates	Fiber	Total Sugars	Added Sugars	Fat	Saturated Fat	Cholesterol	Sodium
286	29g	27g	3g	23g	6g	7g	1.5g	78mg	316mg

Why Include Figs in Your Grilled Dishes?

Figs bring much more than sweetness to this recipe. They boast a subtle, honeyed flavor and soft texture that pairs delightfully with grilled chicken. Nutritionally, figs offer:

Natural fiber for improved digestion
Essential minerals such as potassium and calcium
Antioxidants that help combat free radicals
A lower glycemic index compared to many other fruits

Fresh figs also add color and visual appeal, making your kabobs look as good as they taste.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Kebabs Every Time

Uniform cuts: Chop chicken pieces evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Preheat your grill: A hot grill sears the meat quickly, locking in juices and maximizing flavor.
Monitor cooking time: Avoid overcooking; chicken breast can dry out quickly on high heat.
Let the glaze rest: Brush on after grilling and let sit for a minute before serving to soak up flavors.
Alternate ingredients: Add red onion, bell peppers, or even citrus slices for more variety and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

As a main course: Serve with a side of whole grain rice or quinoa and a crisp seasonal salad.
As an appetizer: Make mini skewers—perfect for party platters and summer gatherings.
With flatbread: Wrap kabob pieces in warm pita, add some yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean touch.
Paired with greens: Try on a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens, tossed with a citrus vinaigrette.

Ingredient Substitutions and Additions

If you want to diversify or accommodate specific dietary needs, consider these options:

Meat alternatives: Use turkey breast or boneless thighs for different flavors and textures.
Fruit swap: Substitute figs with plums or apricots if they’re out of season.
Marinade variations: For deeper flavors, marinate chicken in the marmalade-balsamic mixture for up to 2 hours.
Vegan version: Try tofu and thick mushroom slices in place of chicken.

FAQs About Fig and Chicken Kebabs

Q: Can I make these kebabs ahead of time?

A: Yes. You can assemble the skewers up to a day in advance, refrigerate them, and grill fresh when needed. Wait to brush on the marmalade-balsamic glaze until just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh figs?

A: Dried figs can be used in a pinch, but they’re much sweeter and chewier. Soak dried figs in warm water for 10 minutes before threading onto skewers for better texture.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A: Absolutely. Grill and cool the kebabs, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?

A: Add a pinch of cayenne, chili flakes, or a drizzle of hot honey to the glaze for a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with figs.

Q: Are fig and chicken kebabs gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free provided all sauces and added ingredients are verified gluten-free.

Variations: Inspiration from Other Skewer Recipes

Fig and chicken isn’t the only delicious kebab on the menu! Consider these ideas for inspiration and meal rotation:

Balsamic-Glazed Fig and Chicken Skewers: Use coconut oil instead of olive oil, and try blending the figs and balsamic into a smooth marinade for extra moisture and flavor depth.
Greek Chicken Skewers: Marinate chicken with lemon, oregano, and yogurt, and serve with tzatziki and grilled vegetables.
Garlic Bread Chicken Kebabs: Thread cubes of whole grain bread and chicken, grill, and serve with citrus salad and feta for a twist on classic kabobs.

The Science: Nutrition Highlights

This dish is a prime example of nutrient balance:

Chicken breast: Offers a lean, high-protein base with all essential amino acids.
Figs: Deliver natural sweetness, dietary fiber, and essential minerals, while keeping the added sugar content low.
Olive oil and balsamic vinegar: Add healthy fats and antioxidants, enhancing absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Additionally, the moderate fat content makes this meal satiating but not heavy, making it suitable for a light meal after exercise or as part of an evening menu.

Expert Tips for Healthier Grilling

Watch the heat: Use medium to medium-high heat for even grilling, reducing risk of charring or burning.
Add more veggies: Cherry tomatoes, zucchini pieces, or onions work beautifully on the same skewer for more color and phytonutrients.
Mind portion size: One to two skewers per person is typically satisfying and aligns with balanced meal recommendations.

Additional Reading from The Prevention Kitchen

The Prevention Kitchen offers a wide range of tools and insights for healthy living, including:

Comparisons, such as Tree Nuts vs. Peanuts and Dark Chocolate vs. Milk Chocolate, to help you make better snack choices.
Roundups of essential foods, like the 30 Best Foods Every Woman Over 40 Should Be Eating, for long-term wellness.
Metabolism-boosting foods and foods rich in vitamin A, supporting immunity and digestive health.
Healthy salad recipes and creative ideas for using leftovers with less waste.

Conclusion: Your New Go-To Grilled Recipe

These fig and chicken kebabs offer a refreshing blend of flavors, packed with nutrition and ready in about 20 minutes. They’re easy to prepare, flexible enough for varied diets, and perfect for summer grills or weeknight meals. With a beautiful combination of savory, sweet, and tangy, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your healthy recipe rotation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I double the recipe for larger gatherings?

A: Yes. Simply scale up all ingredients proportionally and use additional skewers as needed. Monitor grill space to avoid crowding for best results.

Q: What sides pair well with fig and chicken kebabs?

A: Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa, green salads, roasted potatoes, or grilled vegetable platters complement these kebabs beautifully.

Q: How can I store leftover kebabs?

A: Store cooled kebabs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use an oven instead of a grill?

A: Yes. Arrange skewers on a lined baking sheet and broil, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned.

References

Author

medha deb

Medha Deb is an editor with a master's degree in Applied Linguistics from the University of Hyderabad. She believes that her qualification has helped her develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts.

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