Description
Bright, simple, and packed with fresh Mediterranean flavors, these grilled chicken skewers are perfect for quick weeknight dinners. The zesty lemon and earthy herbs combined with a smoky char make this recipe a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 lemons, zest and juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
- Optional: 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- Optional: 1 medium red onion, cut into wedges
- Optional: 1 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Slice chicken breasts into roughly 1-inch cubes. If using veggies, prepare cherry tomatoes, onion wedges, and zucchini slices.
- Toss chicken and veggies into the marinade and stir to coat well. Cover and let sit for at least 15 minutes, preferably 30 minutes to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Thread chicken and veggies alternately onto soaked skewers, leaving space between pieces for even cooking.
- Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill skewers for about 5-6 minutes per side, turning once, until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Optionally baste with leftover marinade halfway through grilling (do not use marinade that touched raw chicken unless boiled).
- Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 2 minutes to redistribute juices.
- Serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon and your choice of sides.
Notes
[‘Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes for best flavor; overnight is ideal.’, ‘Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.’, ‘Do not overcrowd skewers; leave space between pieces for even cooking.’, ‘Oil grill grates lightly to prevent sticking.’, ‘Let grilled chicken rest a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.’, ‘Use fresh garlic and fresh lemon zest for best flavor.’, ‘If using marinade for basting, boil it first to avoid contamination.’, ‘Skewers can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for meal prep.’, ‘Vegetarian and alternative protein options include shrimp, tofu, or halloumi cheese.’]
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 280
- Sodium: 480
- Fat: 13
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 35
Keywords: Mediterranean, grilled chicken, lemon herb, skewers, quick dinner, weeknight recipe, healthy, easy, family-friendly