Oh boy, am I excited to share this recipe for Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers! There’s something incredibly satisfying about skewering marinated chicken and tossing it on the grill, with the sun shining down and the aroma wafting through the air. This dish brings back memories of backyard barbecues and family gatherings where laughter fills the air and the only thing better than the food is the company you share it with.
What I love most about this recipe is how simple yet flavorful it is. The fresh herbs and zesty lemon really make the chicken shine. It’s one of those dishes that can impress your guests while being super easy to whip up on a weeknight—or any day, really! Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on these juicy, lemony bites of heaven.
What’s in Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers?
Chicken Breast: I usually opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they’re lean and cook up beautifully on the grill. If you prefer dark meat, thighs are a great, flavorful choice.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best—there’s just no comparison. The zesty acidity helps tenderize the chicken and adds a refreshing kick.
Olive Oil: A good-quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavor and keeps the chicken moist while grilling. I’m a fan of brands like California Olive Ranch!
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic brings that lovely savory aroma and flavor that’s hard to resist. I always tend to add a bit more because, well, why not?
Fresh Herbs (Parsley, Oregano, and Thyme): These fresh herbs add brightness and depth to the dish. If you can get your hands on fresh herbs, I definitely recommend it!
Salt and Pepper: A little seasoning can go a long way in transforming the flavor of the chicken.
Is Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! These Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are not just delicious; they’re also packed with nutritional benefits:
– **Chicken Breast:** A fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. Plus, it’s low in fat, especially if you trim away any excess fat.
– **Olive Oil:** Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, olive oil is known for its heart-healthy qualities. Just keep an eye on the amount you use to keep the calories in check!
– **Lemon Juice:** This zesty fruit is not just tasty; it’s also high in vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and adds zest to flavor profiles.
– **Herbs:** Fresh herbs are packed with vitamins and antioxidants while being low in calories. They can also enhance the flavor, making it easier to cut down on salt.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, just be mindful of how much salt you add.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 3-4 breasts depending on size)
– 2 lemons (juiced and zested)
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
*Serves 4*
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers?
1. Begin by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces—about 1 to 1.5 inches. This way, they cook evenly and soak up all that yummy marinade.
2. In a large bowl, combine the lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined.
3. Add your chicken pieces to the marinade, making sure they are all well coated. Cover the bowl or transfer everything to a sealable plastic bag and let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
4. Once marinated, soak your wooden skewers in water for about 15-20 minutes (if using), so they don’t burn on the grill.
5. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
6. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving just a little space between each piece for even cooking.
7. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has lovely grill marks.
8. Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
9. Enjoy with a side salad or over rice for an amazing meal!
Grilling Tips and Serving Suggestions
Now, let’s spruce things up! I love serving these chicken skewers with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It really enhances the flavor! Also, feel free to throw some veggies on the grill alongside your chicken. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini make colorful, tasty additions that complement the skewers perfectly.
Try pairing these with a refreshing tzatziki sauce or a simple yogurt dip to cool things down if you love a little tangy flavor. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can switch up the herbs or even add a dash of spice with some red pepper flakes.
I hope you give these Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers a try! I promise they’ll become a go-to in your grilling repertoire. Once you do, I’d love to hear how they turn out for you—feel free to share your cooking triumphs (and maybe a few kitchen fails)! Happy cooking!