Summer is synonymous with grilling, and for my family, nothing screams summer quite like the smoky aroma of grilled chicken wafting from the backyard. We’ve tried countless grilled chicken recipes over the years, but these Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers have become an undisputed champion. From the moment I first tossed the chicken in the vibrant marinade, the kitchen filled with the invigorating scent of fresh lemons and fragrant herbs. The anticipation was palpable, and when those skewers finally came off the grill, beautifully charred and glistening with deliciousness, they were devoured in minutes. Even my notoriously picky eaters, who usually approach chicken with skepticism, were asking for seconds and thirds! The bright, zesty flavors are incredibly refreshing, making these skewers perfect for warm weather gatherings, casual weeknight dinners, or even a fun weekend cookout. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try these Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers, they’ll become a regular feature on your summer menu too!

Ingredients for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

• Chicken Breast: 3 pounds, boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. The star of the show, chicken breast provides a lean and protein-packed base for the flavorful marinade.
• Fresh Lemons: 3 large lemons. We’ll use the zest and juice of these lemons. Lemon juice tenderizes the chicken and adds a bright, citrusy tang, while lemon zest provides an intense burst of lemon flavor.
• Olive Oil: ½ cup extra virgin olive oil. Olive oil helps to keep the chicken moist during grilling and also acts as a carrier for the flavors of the herbs and lemon in the marinade.
• Fresh Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Garlic adds a pungent and savory depth to the marinade, complementing the lemon and herbs beautifully.
• Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Rosemary offers a woody, aromatic, and slightly piney flavor that pairs wonderfully with lemon and chicken.
• Fresh Thyme: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped. Thyme provides an earthy and slightly minty flavor that enhances the overall herb profile of the marinade.
• Fresh Oregano: 1 tablespoon, finely chopped. Oregano contributes a slightly peppery and robust flavor, adding another layer of complexity to the herb blend.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, finely chopped. Parsley brings a fresh, clean, and slightly grassy note, brightening up the marinade and adding a touch of visual appeal.
• Salt: 2 teaspoons, or to taste. Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients and is crucial for seasoning the chicken properly.
• Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, freshly ground, or to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle spice and depth of flavor to the marinade.
• Wooden or Metal Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Metal skewers are reusable and do not require soaking.

Instructions for Grilling Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Step 1: Prepare the Lemon Herb Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, chopped oregano, chopped parsley, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all ingredients are well combined to create a vibrant and fragrant marinade. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs will not only infuse the chicken with incredible flavor but also help tenderize it, resulting in juicy and delicious skewers.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated in the marinade. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor absorption. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably for 4-6 hours, or even overnight for the most intense flavor. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. However, avoid marinating for excessively long periods (beyond 24 hours), as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken protein and make it slightly mushy.

Step 3: Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked in water for at least 30 minutes. Soaking prevents the skewers from catching fire or burning on the grill. Thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers. Aim to leave a small space between each piece of chicken to ensure even cooking and airflow. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to the skewers for added flavor and color, if desired. If you are adding vegetables, consider cutting them into sizes similar to the chicken cubes for even cooking.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-450°F (190-230°C). Clean the grill grates thoroughly and lightly oil them with cooking oil or spray to prevent the chicken skewers from sticking. A clean and oiled grill grate will ensure beautiful grill marks and prevent the chicken from tearing when you flip it. If you don’t have a grill, you can also use a grill pan on the stovetop or broil the skewers in the oven, although grilling will impart the best smoky flavor.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken Skewers

Carefully place the chicken skewers onto the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Turn the skewers occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. The exact grilling time will depend on the thickness of the chicken cubes and the heat of your grill. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest piece of chicken to ensure it is fully cooked. You are looking for a nice char and grill marks on the chicken.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the chicken skewers are cooked through and beautifully grilled, remove them from the grill and place them on a clean plate or platter. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful skewers. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges, if desired, and serve immediately. These Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are delicious served hot off the grill and can be enjoyed with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments.

Nutrition Facts for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

Serving Size: 2 skewers (approximately 4 ounces of chicken)
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 15g

Preparation Time for Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

Prep Time: 25 minutes (includes chopping ingredients and making marinade)
Marinating Time: Minimum 2 hours (4-6 hours recommended, up to overnight)
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (grilling time, depending on grill and chicken size)
Total Time: Minimum 2 hours 40 minutes (excluding overnight marinating) to 3 hours 45 minutes (including recommended marinating time). These Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are relatively quick to prepare, especially if you marinate the chicken in advance. The active cooking time is short, making them a great option for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. The marinating time is hands-off, allowing you to prepare other parts of your meal or simply relax while the flavors develop.

How to Serve Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

These versatile Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers can be served in a variety of ways, making them perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• As a Main Course:
  • With a Fresh Salad: Pair the skewers with a light and refreshing salad like a Greek salad, Caprese salad, or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the salad will complement the richness of the chicken.
  • Alongside Grilled Vegetables: Grill some vegetables alongside the chicken skewers, such as bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, corn on the cob, or red onions. Brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper before grilling.
  • With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice, quinoa, or couscous. Consider adding some fresh herbs or lemon zest to the grains for extra flavor.
  • With Roasted Potatoes: Roasted potatoes, especially lemon-herb roasted potatoes, make a hearty and satisfying side dish for grilled chicken skewers.
  • With Pasta Salad: A vibrant pasta salad, like a pesto pasta salad or a Mediterranean pasta salad, is a great accompaniment for these skewers, especially for a summer barbecue.
• As Appetizers or Party Food:
  • Mini Skewers: Cut the chicken into smaller cubes and use shorter skewers to create mini appetizers for parties or gatherings.
  • Served with Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces alongside the skewers, such as tzatziki sauce, hummus, pesto, or a lemon-herb aioli.
  • On a Charcuterie Board: Add the grilled chicken skewers to a charcuterie board alongside cheeses, olives, crackers, and other appetizers for a beautiful and flavorful spread.
• In Wraps or Pitas:
  • Chicken Skewer Wraps: Remove the chicken from the skewers and wrap it in warm pita bread or tortillas with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, and tzatziki sauce.
  • Chicken Skewer Pitas: Stuff pita pockets with the grilled chicken, hummus, chopped vegetables, and a drizzle of lemon juice for a delicious and portable meal.
• For Special Occasions:
  • Elegant Plating: For a more formal presentation, arrange the chicken skewers on a platter and garnish with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and edible flowers.
  • Part of a Grill Feast: Include these Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers as part of a larger grilled feast with other grilled meats, seafood, and vegetables for a celebratory meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

Here are eight helpful tips to ensure your Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers are always a success:

1. Don’t Skip the Marinating Time: Marinating the chicken is crucial for both flavor and tenderness. Allow ample time for the chicken to soak up the marinade – at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-6 hours or even overnight for the best results. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible lemon and herb flavors but also helps to break down the proteins, resulting in more tender and juicy skewers.
2. Soak Wooden Skewers Properly: If you are using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling is essential. This prevents them from burning or catching fire on the grill, ensuring your skewers stay intact and your chicken cooks evenly. You can even soak them for longer, up to a few hours, for extra protection.
3. Cut Chicken into Uniform Sizes: To ensure even cooking, cut the chicken breast into uniformly sized cubes, approximately 1-inch in size. This way, all pieces of chicken will cook at the same rate and you won’t end up with some pieces being overcooked while others are undercooked. Consistent size is key to perfectly grilled skewers.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Skewers: When threading the chicken onto the skewers, avoid overcrowding them. Leave a small space between each piece of chicken. This allows for better airflow and ensures that the chicken cooks evenly on all sides and develops beautiful grill marks. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than grilling, resulting in less flavorful chicken.
5. Preheat the Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium-high heat before placing the skewers on the grates. A hot grill sears the chicken quickly, locking in the juices and creating those desirable grill marks. If the grill is not hot enough, the chicken may stick and not brown properly.
6. Oil the Grill Grates: Lightly oiling the grill grates before grilling is a simple but effective step to prevent the chicken skewers from sticking. Use cooking oil or a grill spray specifically designed for high heat. This will ensure that the skewers release easily from the grill and maintain their beautiful appearance.
7. Use a Meat Thermometer: The best way to ensure your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken cube to check the internal temperature. Chicken is considered fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry.
8. Let the Chicken Rest: After grilling, allow the chicken skewers to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful skewers. Cover the skewers loosely with foil while they rest to keep them warm.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

A: Yes, you can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. Chicken thighs are more forgiving and tend to stay moister during grilling due to their higher fat content. They will also absorb the marinade beautifully and provide a richer flavor. Just be sure to trim any excess fat from the thighs before cubing and marinating.

Q2: How long should I marinate the chicken?

A: For the best flavor and tenderness, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but ideally 4-6 hours. You can even marinate it overnight in the refrigerator for an even more intense flavor. However, avoid marinating for longer than 24 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken protein and make it slightly mushy.

Q3: Can I freeze marinated chicken skewers?

A: Yes, you can freeze marinated chicken skewers before grilling. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the skewers to a freezer-safe bag or container. You can grill them directly from frozen, but you may need to increase the grilling time by a few minutes. Alternatively, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.

Q4: What if I don’t have fresh herbs? Can I use dried herbs?

A: While fresh herbs are highly recommended for the most vibrant flavor, you can use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available. As a general rule, use about 1 teaspoon of dried herbs for every tablespoon of fresh herbs. So, for this recipe, you would use approximately 2 teaspoons of dried rosemary, 2 teaspoons of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and 1-2 teaspoons of dried parsley (dried parsley is less potent, so you might need a bit more).

Q5: Can I bake these chicken skewers in the oven instead of grilling?

A: Yes, you can bake these chicken skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a wire rack set inside a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). For a slightly browned top, you can broil them for the last few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Q6: What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these skewers?

A: There are many delicious dipping sauces that pair well with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Skewers. Some excellent options include:

• Tzatziki Sauce: A classic Greek yogurt-based sauce with cucumber, garlic, and dill.
• Hummus: Creamy and flavorful, hummus adds a Middle Eastern touch.
• Pesto: Basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for an herbaceous and vibrant flavor.
• Lemon-Herb Aioli: A simple aioli made with mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and fresh herbs.
• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce.
• Spicy Yogurt Sauce: Yogurt mixed with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce for a kick.

Q7: Can I add vegetables to the skewers?

A: Absolutely! Adding vegetables to the skewers is a great way to make them a more complete and colorful meal. Some vegetables that grill well with chicken skewers include:

• Bell peppers (red, yellow, orange, green)
• Red onions
• Zucchini or summer squash
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Pineapple chunks
• Asparagus (cut into shorter pieces)

Cut the vegetables into sizes similar to the chicken cubes and thread them onto the skewers along with the chicken. You can even marinate the vegetables in a separate portion of the marinade for extra flavor.

Q8: How can I store leftover grilled chicken skewers?

A: Store leftover grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can grill them briefly over low heat, bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them. Reheating on the grill or in the oven will help retain the texture better than microwaving. Leftover chicken skewers can also be shredded and used in salads, wraps, or sandwiches.

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