Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chicken Skewers are juicy, flavorful chicken pieces marinated with herbs and spices, then charred to perfection on skewers. They’re simple to prepare, versatile, and perfect for barbecues, family dinners, or summer gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These skewers are a crowd-pleasing favorite with smoky, savory flavors and a tender texture. They can be customized with different marinades, paired with vegetables, or enjoyed on their own. Plus, they cook quickly, making them an ideal choice for weeknight meals or outdoor grilling.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• Olive oil

• Lemon juice

• Garlic, minced

• Paprika

• Dried oregano

• Salt and pepper

• Wooden or metal skewers

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Grated Parmesan (optional, for serving)

directions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

2. Cut chicken into bite-sized cubes.

3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.

4. Add chicken to the marinade and coat well. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

5. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

6. Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers.

7. Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has grill marks.

8. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)

• Cook time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: ~30 minutes (excluding marination)

Variations

• Add vegetables: Thread bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes between chicken pieces.

• Spicy version: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade.

• Asian-inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for the marinade.

• Mediterranean twist: Add yogurt, cumin, and coriander for a rich flavor.

• Honey garlic glaze: Brush skewers with honey and garlic during the last few minutes of grilling.

storage/reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Freeze: Marinated raw chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before grilling.

• Reheat: Warm skewers in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through, or reheat briefly in the microwave.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs remain juicy and flavorful, making them an excellent choice for grilling.

How do I keep the chicken from drying out?

Avoid overcooking and remove the skewers from the grill as soon as the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

What grill temperature is best?

Medium-high heat ensures a nice sear while keeping the chicken tender inside.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

Marinating enhances flavor and tenderness, but if short on time, even 20 minutes makes a difference.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes, marinate and thread onto skewers in advance. Keep refrigerated until ready to grill.

What can I serve with chicken skewers?

They pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, salad, or flatbreads.

Can I use metal skewers?

Absolutely, they’re reusable and don’t require soaking like wooden skewers.

How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the grill?

Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking.

Can I make this recipe indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or broiler for similar results.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and versatile dish that brings out the best of summertime grilling. With endless marinade options and easy preparation, they’re a go-to recipe for both casual dinners and festive gatherings. Enjoy them hot off the grill with your favorite sides for a delicious meal.

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