Description
Juicy, tangy, and bright grilled chicken skewers marinated in lemon, herbs, and garlic. This easy weeknight dinner is ready in under 30 minutes and perfect for impressing guests or feeding a family.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice (about 3–4 lemons)
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks (optional)
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Crusty bread or pita (for serving)
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. If using vegetables, cut onions and peppers into similar-sized chunks.
- Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces and leaving small spaces between them for even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes beforehand.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until emulsified.
- Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (approx. 400°F / 200°C). Clean the grates and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.
- Place the skewers on the grill. Cook for 4-5 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes on the other side, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Remove skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges, fresh herbs, and crusty bread or pita.
Notes
Do not marinate for more than 6 hours as the acid can make the chicken mushy. If using wooden skewers, soaking them prevents burning. Chicken thighs are juicier, but breasts work if you monitor the temperature closely (pull at 165°F). For a sauce, reserve a cup of marinade before adding chicken, boil it for 2 minutes, and use as a dipping sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers per servin
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 4
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: grilled chicken, chicken skewers, mediterranean recipe, lemon herb chicken, weeknight dinner, easy grilling, healthy dinner, summer grilling