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Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe Light, Flavorful & Perfect for the Grill

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe | Light, Flavorful & Perfect for the Grill

Bright, zesty, and packed with flavor. A healthy recipe that’s high-protein and low-fat. Quick and easy recipe for BBQs, parties, or weeknight dinners. Flexible with herbs, spices, and serving options. Make-ahead and meal-prep friendly.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, BBQ, Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Chicken & Marinade
  • 500 g 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tbsp 45 ml olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 2 tbsp 30 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp 15 g lemon zest
  • 3 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tsp 2 g dried oregano (or fresh 1 tbsp chopped)
  • 1 tsp 2 g dried thyme (or 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves)
  • 2 tbsp 30 g fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp 5 g salt
  • ½ tsp 2 g black pepper
  • Optional Add-ins
  • ½ tsp chili flakes for heat
  • 1 tbsp honey for a hint of sweetness
  • For Serving
  • Fresh lemon wedges
  • Extra chopped parsley
  • Dipping sauce tzatziki, garlic yogurt, or tahini

Method
 

  1. Preparing the Chicken & Marinade
  2. Cut the chicken into even 1-inch cubes. This ensures quick, uniform cooking. Use a sharp knife and cutting board dedicated to poultry.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. The mixture should smell zesty and fragrant.
  4. Add chicken cubes to the bowl and toss until every piece is coated.
  5. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (best overnight). Keep refrigerated. Pro Tip: The longer you marinate, the juicier and more flavorful your skewers will be.
  6. Skewering & Grilling
  7. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
  8. Preheat your grill or grill pan to 200°C / 400°F. Oil the grates lightly to avoid sticking.
  9. Thread chicken cubes onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
  10. Place skewers on the hot grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes.
  11. Visual cues: chicken turns golden brown with slight char marks.
  12. Internal temp: 74°C / 165°F (use a meat thermometer).
  13. Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Skewers
  14. Don’t overcrowd the skewers; airflow ensures even grilling.
  15. Baste with leftover marinade in the first half of cooking only (avoid cross-contamination).
  16. Let the skewers rest for 5 minutes after grilling before serving this helps juices redistribute.
  17. Troubleshooting
  18. If chicken is dry, reduce cooking time or increase marination.
  19. If skewers burn too fast, lower the grill heat slightly and shift to indirect cooking.
  20. Storage and Reheating
  21. Leftover skewers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven at 175°C / 350°F for 8-10 minutes, or microwave briefly with a splash of water to retain moisture.
  22. Plating / Serving Suggestions
  23. Serve hot skewers with a drizzle of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a side of creamy tzatziki. Pair with pita bread, couscous, or a refreshing cucumber salad.

Notes

Variations

  • Spicy: Add paprika or chili flakes.
  • Gluten-Free: Pair with rice or quinoa instead of pita.
  • Vegan: Swap chicken for firm tofu or mushrooms.
  • Protein Add-ins: Try shrimp or turkey cubes.

Substitutions

  • Olive oil → avocado oil or sunflower oil.
  • Fresh herbs → dried herbs (reduce quantity by half).
  • Lemon → lime for a tangy twist.

Make-Ahead & Storage

  • Marinate chicken up to 24 hours ahead.
  • Freeze marinated chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before grilling.

Troubleshooting & Common Mistakes

  • Dry chicken: Overcooked or not enough marinade.
  • Burnt skewers: Grill too hot or dry wooden skewers.
  • Uneven cooking: Skewers overcrowded.

Tools & Equipment

  • Grill or stovetop grill pan
  • Wooden or metal skewers
  • Tongs
  • Instant-read meat thermometer

Serving Ideas

  • Serve with grilled veggies (zucchini, peppers, onions).
  • Pair with hummus, tzatziki, or tahini sauce.
  • Make wraps with pita bread, lettuce, and yogurt sauce.