Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs

Introduction

Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs are a refreshing and flavorful combination of juicy chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh fruit, all served on skewers for a fun and elegant presentation. These chilled kabobs are perfect for warm weather, offering a delightful balance of savory and sweet flavors. The addition of a raspberry dressing or glaze enhances the natural flavors, making each bite an irresistible mix of tangy, creamy, and juicy goodness.

I remember the first time I made these for a summer picnic. The combination of chilled chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh fruit was a hit, and the raspberry glaze added the perfect touch of sweetness. Everyone loved how light yet satisfying they were, making them an instant favorite. What’s great about these kabobs is how versatile they are—you can switch up the cheese, use different fruits like strawberries or grapes, or even add nuts for extra crunch.

These kabobs are surprisingly easy to prepare, too. With just a few ingredients and some simple assembly, you can create a refreshing appetizer or snack that’s both elegant and effortless. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a quick and delicious treat, these Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs are sure to impress!

Perfect for:

• Summer picnics
• Appetizers for parties
• Light lunches
• Meal prepping
• Healthy snacking

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs will become a favorite in your recipe collection:

• Refreshing & Light: Served cold, these kabobs are ideal for hot days.
• Savory-Sweet Balance: The juicy raspberries pair beautifully with tender chicken and creamy cheese.
• Protein-Packed: A great source of protein from the chicken and cheese.
• Easy to Make & Serve: No need for cooking at the last minute—just assemble and chill!
• Elegant Presentation: Perfect for entertaining, with vibrant colors and fresh ingredients.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes (including chilling time)
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Chilling Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings (makes about 12 kabobs)
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 20g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 14g

Ingredients

For the Kabobs:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
• 1 cup fresh raspberries
• 6 oz mozzarella cheese, cubed (or your preferred mild cheese)
• 1 cup seedless grapes (red or green)
• 1 cup cucumber, sliced into thick rounds
• 12 wooden or metal skewers

For the Raspberry Dressing:

• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Lean and protein-packed, providing a hearty base for the kabobs.
• Mozzarella Cheese: A mild and creamy cheese that pairs well with the fruit and chicken.
• Raspberries: Fresh, juicy, and slightly tart, bringing a burst of flavor.
• Cucumber: Adds a refreshing crunch.
• Raspberry Dressing: A light and tangy drizzle to tie the flavors together.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Cook the Chicken: Boil, grill, or bake the chicken until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F). Let it cool, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
2. Cut the Cheese & Vegetables: Cube the mozzarella cheese and slice the cucumbers into rounds.
3. Prepare the Dressing: In a small bowl, mash the raspberries and mix with honey, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well and set aside.

Assemble the Kabobs:

4. Layer the Ingredients on Skewers:

• Start with a raspberry, followed by a cube of cheese, a piece of chicken, a grape, and a cucumber slice.
• Repeat the pattern until the skewer is full, leaving space at the ends for easy handling.

4. Drizzle with Dressing: Lightly brush or drizzle the raspberry dressing over the kabobs for extra flavor.

Chill & Serve:

6. Refrigerate for 10 Minutes: Let the kabobs chill in the fridge to enhance the flavors and keep them fresh.
7. Garnish & Serve: Arrange on a platter, garnish with extra raspberries, and enjoy cold!

How to Serve

• As an Appetizer: Serve on a platter with extra raspberry dressing for dipping.
• For a Light Lunch: Pair with a fresh side salad or whole-grain crackers.
• At a Picnic or BBQ: Keep chilled in a cooler and serve as a refreshing bite.
• With a Fruit Platter: Complement the flavors with additional fresh fruits like strawberries or melon.
• For Meal Prep: Store in an airtight container for a quick grab-and-go meal.

Additional Tips

• Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Chill longer for enhanced flavor. Letting the kabobs sit for an hour deepens the taste.
• Experiment with cheese varieties. Try feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
• Use skewers with looped handles for easier grip and serving.
• For extra crunch, add nuts like almonds or cashews between layers.

Recipe Variations

1. Strawberry Chicken-Cheese Kabobs – Swap raspberries for strawberries for a slightly sweeter twist.
2. Blueberry Basil Chicken Kabobs – Add fresh basil leaves and blueberries for a fresh, herby variation.
3. Mango Chicken-Cheese Kabobs – Add mango cubes for a tropical touch.
4. Cranberry Pecan Chicken Kabobs – Use dried cranberries and pecans for a fall-inspired version.
5. Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs – Replace raspberries with cherry tomatoes and add olives for a Greek twist.
6. Avocado Chicken-Cheese Kabobs – Add avocado chunks for extra creaminess.
7. Cantaloupe Chicken Kabobs – Try adding melon for a refreshing summer variation.
8. Apple Chicken-Cheese Kabobs – Use crisp apple slices for a crunchy, sweet-savory mix.
9. Spicy Raspberry Chicken Kabobs – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dressing for a little heat.
10. Honey-Lemon Chicken Kabobs – Enhance the dressing with extra lemon and honey for a bright citrusy kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended due to the fresh fruit and cheese.

Special Equipment

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Mixing bowls
• Small whisk for the dressing
• Cutting board and knife

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these ahead of time? Yes! Prepare the kabobs a few hours in advance and keep them chilled.
2. What cheese works best? Mozzarella, feta, goat cheese, or Monterey Jack work well.
3. Can I use frozen raspberries? Fresh is best, but thawed raspberries can be used for the dressing.
4. How do I keep the kabobs from drying out? Store in an airtight container and drizzle extra dressing before serving.
5. Can I make this dairy-free? Yes! Use dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese altogether.

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Conclusion

Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs are the perfect combination of fresh, creamy, and savory flavors, making them a delicious and elegant dish for any occasion. The juicy raspberries add a sweet-tart contrast to the tender chicken and creamy cheese, creating a refreshing and satisfying bite.

With their vibrant colors and irresistible flavor, these kabobs are as beautiful as they are tasty. Whether served at a summer picnic, as an appetizer for a party, or as a nutritious snack, they are sure to impress with their unique combination of ingredients.

This recipe is easy to assemble and requires no cooking, making it a convenient and fuss-free option for entertaining or meal prepping. Customize them with your favorite cheeses or add fresh herbs for an extra touch of flavor.

I’d love to see your Raspberry Cold Chicken-Cheese Kabobs! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me so I can admire your delicious creation. Happy assembling!