Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: International Flavor Recipes

I absolutely love the fresh, zesty flavors of grilled lemon herb chicken skewers. Preparing these skewers always brings back great memories of summer barbecues, where the aroma of herbs and citrus fill the air. It's a simple recipe that I often turn to when I want something healthy yet bursting with flavor. Using tender chicken marinated in a blend of lemon juice, garlic, and herbs, these skewers are perfect for outdoor gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Trust me, they’ll be a hit with family and friends!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:45:28.049Z

When I first tried making grilled lemon herb chicken skewers, I was amazed at how straightforward yet delicious they turned out. The key is marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to ensure it absorbs all the wonderful flavors. I also discovered that soaking wooden skewers in water prior to grilling prevents them from burning, which made a noticeable difference during my cookouts.

These skewers can be customized with your favorite veggies or even swapped for other proteins like shrimp. I enjoy serving them with a side salad or over a bed of fluffy rice for a complete meal that feels light yet satisfying. Each time I make them, I'm reminded of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright and refreshing flavor thanks to lemon and herbs
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Great for meal prepping and can be served with various sides

Choosing the Right Chicken

For the best flavor and tenderness in your grilled lemon herb chicken skewers, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They absorb the marinade well and cook evenly on the grill. If you prefer a juicier option, consider chicken thighs, which have a bit more fat and flavor. Just ensure that whichever cut you choose, it's cut into uniform pieces around 1 to 1.5 inches to facilitate even cooking and avoid dry spots.

Also, when shopping for chicken, look for breasts that are plump and slightly moist. Avoid any with excess liquid in the package, as that can indicate poor quality. Fresh chicken should have a mild scent; if it smells sour or overly strong, it’s best to choose another pack.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade is crucial for infusing flavor into the chicken skewers. The combination of lemon juice and zest not only tenderizes the meat but also adds a vibrant brightness. Be sure not to marinate the chicken for longer than two hours to prevent it from becoming mushy, as the acid in the lemon can break down the meat fibers too much. I personally find that a quick 30-minute marination strikes the ideal balance of flavor without compromising texture.

Additionally, feel free to customize the herbs used in the marinade. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can lend a different flavor profile, while using smoked paprika adds a subtle depth. For a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be included. Just remember that every added ingredient should enhance, not overwhelm, the fresh lemon flavor.

Grilling Tips for Success

When grilling these skewers, it's important to maintain a medium-high heat, ideally around 375°F to 450°F. This ensures that the chicken has a nice sear and grill marks while staying juicy inside. You can test the heat of your grill by holding your hand about six inches above the grates; if you can only hold it there for 2-3 seconds before it gets too hot, you’re at the right temperature. Make sure to oil the grill grates beforehand to prevent sticking.

Keep an eye on your skewers while they cook, turning them every couple of minutes. This allows the chicken to develop a beautiful golden color and prevents burning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help avoid undercooking, which could lead to foodborne illnesses.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1/4 cup olive oil
1 lemon, juiced and zested
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Make sure to adjust the ingredient amounts if you're cooking for more or fewer people.

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 10 minutes to prevent burning.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Once grilled, let the skewers rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add in some chopped bell peppers or cherry tomatoes on the skewers for added flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

These lemon herb chicken skewers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. A simple Greek salad made with cucumbers, tomatoes, feta, and olives brings a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken. For something heartier, consider serving with grilled vegetables or a quinoa salad. The zesty flavors of the chicken complement grains and fresh veggies, making for a balanced meal.

If you're looking for a lighter option, consider serving the skewers over a bed of mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette. This adds crispness and a burst of flavor, perfect for warmer evenings. You can also drizzle some extra lemon juice before serving to enhance the citrus notes.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover grilled chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Make sure they have cooled to room temperature before sealing them to avoid condensation. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze cooked skewers. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and they’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer.

To reheat, simply place the thawed skewers on a grill pan over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, a microwave can be used, but be cautious as it can dry out the chicken. A damp paper towel over the skewers while microwaving can help keep moisture during reheating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with your skewers by incorporating other proteins, such as shrimp or firm tofu, which work incredibly well with the same marinade. For shrimp, adjust the marinating time to about 15-20 minutes, as they absorb flavor more quickly, and remember to soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.

You can also turn this recipe into a flavorful stir-fry by sautéing the marinated chicken pieces in a pan instead of grilling them. This is particularly useful when weather doesn’t permit outdoor cooking. Just make sure your pan is hot enough before adding the chicken to get that desirable sear without steaming.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! These marinades work well with shrimp, pork, or even vegetables.

→ How long will the leftovers last?

Leftover skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

→ Can I grill these skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can broil them in the oven on high for about 10-12 minutes, turning them halfway through.

→ What sides pair well with grilled lemon herb chicken skewers?

A simple green salad, quinoa, or grilled vegetables complement these skewers perfectly.