Description
A quick and easy grilled chicken skewer recipe bursting with fresh lemon and herb flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- Juice of 2 medium lemons (about 1/4 cup or 60ml)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (45ml)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (wooden skewers soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling)
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Optional: 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped
- Optional: Cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for threading between chicken pieces
Instructions
- Cut the chicken breasts or thighs into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat all pieces evenly.
- Let the chicken marinate at room temperature for at least 10 minutes (up to 30 minutes in the fridge for more flavor).
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking. Add vegetables if desired.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Lightly oil the grill grates or chicken to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning gently with tongs, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and has nice grill marks.
- Remove skewers from grill and let rest for a few minutes.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or basil and serve immediately with lemon wedges.
Notes
[‘Do not skip the lemon zest for an intense citrus aroma.’, ‘Let chicken come to room temperature before marinating for even cooking.’, ‘Marinate chicken for 10-30 minutes max to avoid mushy texture.’, ‘Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).’, ‘Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.’, ‘Brush grill grates or chicken with olive oil to prevent sticking.’, ‘Add vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for color and sweetness.’, ‘Marinate and prep chicken ahead but skewer just before grilling to keep chicken juicy.’, ‘Cooked skewers do not freeze well; freeze raw marinated chicken instead.’]
- Prep Time: 13 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximat
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2.5
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Mediterranean, grilled chicken, lemon herb, skewers, quick dinner, easy recipe, summer grilling