As the summer months approach, I’m excited to share my go-to grilling recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. The combination of juicy chicken, bright citrus, and aromatic flavors is a game-changer for outdoor gatherings.
These skewers are not only delicious, but they’re also quick to prepare, taking only about 25 minutes of active cooking time. The secret lies in the marinade, which is a perfect balance of citrus, savory, and garlicky notes that elevate the dish to a whole new level.
I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, and I’m thrilled to share my tips and tricks for creating the most flavorful skewers you’ve ever tasted. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced griller, this recipe is sure to impress your guests at your next outdoor gathering.
Delicious Marinated Chicken Skewers
My love for grilled chicken skewers started with a simple yet effective marinade recipe. The combination of flavors in this dish is truly delightful, making it a perfect choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe stands out due to its perfect balance of flavors. The marinade, made with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic, infuses the chicken with a rich and tangy taste. It’s also versatile, allowing for various vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes to be added.
Key Ingredients
The key to this recipe lies in its ingredients. To make these delicious skewers, you’ll need:
- 3 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1½ pounds)
- ⅓ cup olive oil
- ⅓ cup lemon juice (2 large lemons)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons garlic (minced)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
- 2 small zucchini (cut into ½-inch round slices)
- ½ pint cherry tomatoes
- Sliced lemon for garnish
- 6 (14-inch) skewers (metal or wood)
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 3 | Main protein |
| Olive Oil | ⅓ cup | Marinade base |
| Lemon Juice | ⅓ cup | Adds citrus flavor |
| Garlic | 2 teaspoons | Enhances flavor |
How to Make Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers
The process of preparing grilled lemon garlic chicken skewers involves several key steps that ensure flavorful and juicy results. To achieve the perfect grilled lemon garlic chicken, it’s essential to follow these steps carefully.
Preparing the Marinade
To start, I combine olive oil, fresh lemon juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes in a bowl to create my signature marinade. This marinade is the foundation of the dish’s flavor, so I ensure it’s well mixed. The mixture of olive oil and lemon juice provides a rich and tangy flavor to the chicken.
Marinating the Chicken
I then pour half of the marinade mixture over the cubed chicken in a large zipped bag or bowl, tossing to coat all pieces evenly. The chicken is left to marinate for at least 20 minutes, with overnight being the ideal duration for maximum flavor penetration.
Assembling the Skewers
When assembling the skewers, I alternate chicken pieces with vegetables like zucchini rounds and cherry tomatoes. This not only creates a colorful presentation but also ensures balanced cooking. If using wooden skewers, I make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.
Grilling Instructions
I preheat my grill to medium-high heat, around 425°F, and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. The skewers are placed on the grill directly over the heat and brushed with the reserved marinade. I cook the skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it’s cooked through while remaining juicy.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers
With a few expert tips, you can elevate your chicken skewers to the next level. Perfectly cooked chicken skewers are not just about throwing some chicken and vegetables on a stick; they require some finesse and attention to detail.
Choosing the Right Skewers
I prefer using metal skewers as they conduct heat evenly and don’t require soaking. However, if you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. This simple step can make a significant difference in the quality of your skewers.
Cutting Chicken for Even Cooking
Cutting chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes is crucial for even cooking. I always take my time with this step to ensure perfectly cooked meat throughout. Uniform pieces ensure that your chicken cooks consistently, avoiding undercooked or overcooked bits.
Broiler Method Alternative
If you don’t have a grill, you can still achieve delicious chicken skewers using your oven’s broiler. Simply place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet, brush with marinade, and broil for 4-5 minutes per side. This method yields a similar char to grilling, with minimal effort.
Make-Ahead Options
For added convenience, you can prepare the marinade and cut the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to combine and grill. This make-ahead approach can save you time and reduce stress when preparing meals.
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use the broiler method as an alternative to grilling for a similar charred effect.
- Prepare marinades and cut chicken in advance to save time.
Serving and Storage Suggestions
Now that you’ve mastered the art of grilling lemon garlic chicken skewers, it’s time to explore the various ways to serve and store them. You can serve these skewers with a variety of sides, such as garlic rice or a simple Greek salad, for a complete meal.
For a low-carb dinner, serve the skewers over mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette. Leftover chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and repurposed in salads, grain bowls, or as a wrap filling.
These lemon garlic chicken skewers also make a great addition to a buffet-style dinner party, paired with other Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
