Zesty Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe for Summer Grilling

Tender chunks of marinated chicken dance with zesty lemon herb flavors in this mouthwatering skewer recipe.

Bright Mediterranean notes infuse each perfectly grilled bite.

Fresh herbs and citrusy undertones create a vibrant harmony of taste.

Summer gatherings call for these sizzling, succulent skewers that promise to delight every palate.

Marinades work magic, turning simple ingredients into a spectacular meal.

Juicy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, these skewers will become your new go-to summer dish.

You’ll want to fire up the grill and savor every delicious moment.

Ingredients for Bright Lemon Herb Chicken

• Chicken: Tender protein cubes perfect for absorbing marinade flavors.

• Olive Oil, Lemon Juice: Creates a bright and tangy base for infusing chicken with fresh flavors.
• Garlic: Adds a robust and aromatic depth to the marinade.
• Oregano, Thyme: Classic herbs that provide earthy and warm Mediterranean-inspired notes.

• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance the overall taste of the chicken skewers.

• Lemon Wedges: Fresh citrus accompaniment that adds a zesty finish and brightens the grilled chicken.

Skewer Instructions for Zesty Grilled Chicken

Step 1: Whisk Zesty Marinade

• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper

Toss chicken cubes into the marinade, ensuring every piece gets thoroughly coated.

Let the flavors mingle and soak for 30 minutes at room temperature.

Step 2: Fire Up the Grill

Crank your grill to a sizzling medium-high heat.

While the grates are warming, carefully slide the marinated chicken pieces onto wooden or metal skewers.

Space the chunks evenly for consistent cooking.

Step 3: Sear and Char

Lay the skewers across the hot grill grates.

Cook for 8-10 minutes, rotating every few minutes to create beautiful golden-brown char marks.

Ensure the chicken turns a perfect white throughout with no pink centers.

Step 4: Plate and Garnish

Transfer the sizzling skewers to a beautiful serving platter.

Scatter fresh lemon wedges around the plate, inviting guests to squeeze bright citrus over the herb-infused chicken for an extra tangy punch.

Pro Tips for Tender, Juicy Chicken Skewers

• Let chicken sit in marinade for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator for deeper, more intense flavor infusion.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to stop them from charring quickly.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
• Experiment with fresh rosemary or basil instead of oregano and thyme for a unique flavor profile.
• Replace chicken with firm tofu or halloumi cheese, adjusting grilling time to prevent burning.

Ways to Mix Up Lemon Herb Skewer Flavors

• Mediterranean Veggie Skewers: Replace chicken with firm tofu, zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, using the same herb marinade for a vegetarian option.
• Spicy Lime Chicken Skewers: Swap lemon juice with lime juice, add chili flakes and cumin for a zesty, heat-packed version that brings Mexican-inspired flavors.
• Greek-Style Lamb Skewers: Substitute chicken with tender lamb cubes, keeping the original herb mix and adding a touch of rosemary for a rich, traditional Mediterranean taste.
• Low-Carb Protein Skewers: Use skinless chicken breast, reduce oil quantity, and serve with a fresh herb salad instead of traditional sides for a lighter, protein-focused meal.

Best Serving Ideas for Grilled Chicken Skewers

• Mediterranean Feast Pairing: Serve alongside warm pita bread, tzatziki sauce, and a crisp Greek salad for an authentic Mediterranean-inspired meal.
• Summer Picnic Delight: Pack these skewers in a cooler for outdoor gatherings, paired with a light quinoa salad and fresh cucumber slices.
• Dinner Party Elegance: Present skewers on a wooden board with roasted vegetables, garnish with fresh herbs, and offer a zesty lemon aioli for dipping.
• Family-Style Spread: Create a build-your-own skewer station with various dipping sauces, grilled vegetables, and fluffy couscous for a fun, interactive dinner experience.

Storing Chicken Skewers to Keep Them Juicy

• Store leftover lemon herb chicken skewers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Allow skewers to cool completely at room temperature before placing in the refrigerator to avoid condensation and potential soggy texture.
• Enjoy refrigerated chicken skewers within 3-4 days for optimal taste and food safety, checking for any signs of spoilage before reheating.
• Wrap cooled skewers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, ensuring they're protected from freezer burn.

FAQs

• What herbs work best for these chicken skewers?

Oregano and thyme are classic Mediterranean herbs that give these skewers a bright, fresh flavor. Fresh herbs are recommended for the most vibrant taste, but dried herbs can also work in a pinch.

• Can I use chicken breasts or do I need a specific cut?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken thighs both work perfectly for these skewers. Cut them into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and consistent flavor absorption.

• How long should I marinate the chicken?

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended, but for deeper flavor, marinate for 2-4 hours in the refrigerator. Avoid marinating longer than 8 hours to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Crowd-Pleaser Qualities

• Flavor-Packed Marinade: Infuse chicken with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs that create a mouthwatering taste explosion in every single bite.
• Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep work and simple grilling technique make this recipe perfect for busy families looking for a delicious dinner solution.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Suitable for backyard barbecues, casual gatherings, or a protein-rich meal that appeals to both adults and kids with its bright, fresh flavors.
• Healthy Protein Option: Lean chicken combined with olive oil and herbs provides a nutritious meal that's low in calories and high in protein, supporting balanced eating habits.

Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.7 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Mediterranean flavors dance through these lemon herb chicken skewers, promising a culinary journey of zesty delight. Marinated in fragrant herbs and citrus, grilled to perfection, these skewers deliver a light, fresh meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
• Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste

Liquid and Oils:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Garnish:

• Fresh lemon wedges for serving

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, finely minced garlic, crumbled oregano, chopped thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create a vibrant marinade.
2. Add chicken cubes to the marinade, gently tossing to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated with the herb-infused liquid. Refrigerate for 30-45 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate deeply.
3. Preheat grill to 400°F, creating medium-high heat zones. While warming, carefully thread marinated chicken pieces onto clean skewers, leaving small spaces between chunks for even cooking.
4. Place prepared skewers onto hot grill grates, positioning them diagonally to create beautiful crosshatch grill marks. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, rotating carefully to ensure uniform browning.
5. Check chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer. The exterior should display golden-brown caramelization and slight charring.
6. Transfer grilled skewers to a clean serving platter. Garnish with fresh lemon wedges and optional chopped parsley for a bright, aromatic presentation. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.

Notes

• Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs for extra juiciness and more forgiving texture during grilling.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading to prevent burning and potential charring.
• Create a gluten-free version by using tamari instead of traditional marinade ingredients and confirming all seasoning components are certified gluten-free.
• Transform this recipe into a meal prep friendly option by preparing skewers ahead and storing marinated chicken in sealed containers for up to 24 hours before cooking.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 232
• Sugar: 0.3 g
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.4 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Fiber: 0.2 g
• Protein: 36 g
• Cholesterol: 90 mg