Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers

User Reviews

4.9

138 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    35 mins

  • Total Time

    40 mins

  • Servings

    6 servings

  • Calories

    258 kcal

  • Course

    Main Course

  • Cuisine

    Middle Eastern

Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers

Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers combine boneless, skinless chicken pieces marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, fresh garlic, cilantro, and a mix of spices including paprika and cayenne. The marinade imparts bright, herby flavors balanced by a gentle heat from cayenne. Grilled over medium heat until cooked through, the skewers develop a tender texture with subtle charred notes, making them an appealing option for a casual outdoor meal or weekday dinner. The use of simple ingredients and a relatively short marinating time make this recipe accessible for home cooks seeking flavorful grilled chicken.

Description

Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers highlight boneless chicken, preferably thighs for their tenderness, cut into strips suited for skewering. The marinade mixes olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, cilantro or parsley, minced garlic, paprika, salt, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to infuse the meat before grilling. After marinating for about 20 minutes, the chicken is skewered and cooked on a greased grill over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, turning once to ensure even cooking. This process yields juicy chicken with a light citrus and herb flavor, accompanied by mild warmth from the spices. The skewers serve well as a main dish for lunch or dinner and can be paired with side salads or grains for a complete meal.

The method relies on a straightforward grill technique that allows the marinade to penetrate the chicken without needing prolonged soaking. The moderate cooking time keeps the meat tender and moist, avoiding dry or overcooked textures. This approach suits cooks looking for a balanced, flavorful grilled chicken option with a hint of spice and citrus freshness.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 2 pounds chicken breast I prefer thighs, boneless skinless; or chicken thighs
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 3 tablespoons cilantro I prefer cilantro, fresh minced or parsley
  • 2 teaspoons garlic minced, fresh
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon Turmeric
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into 1 ½ inch strips for skewering. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro or parsley, crushed garlic, paprika, salt, cumin, turmeric and cayenne pepper. Place the chicken pieces in a glass dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken and stir to coat. Cover with plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for 20 minutes. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the chicken is marinating.
  2. Generously grease the grill and heat over medium. Skewer the chicken, evenly divided between 6-8 skewers.
  3. Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning once during cooking, until cooked through. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use wooden skewers soaked in water before grilling to prevent burning.
  • Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes but not much longer to retain fresh lemon flavor.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 258kcal (13%) Carbohydrates 1g (0%) Protein 32g (64%) Fat 13g (20%) Saturated Fat 2g (10%) Cholesterol 96mg (32%) Sodium 564mg (24%) Potassium 582mg (12%) Vitamin A 280IU (6%) Vitamin C 5.2mg (6%) Calcium 11mg (1%) Iron 0.8mg (4%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 6servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 258 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 258kcal 13%
Carbohydrates 1g 0%
Protein 32g 64%
Fat 13g 20%
Saturated Fat 2g 10%
Cholesterol 96mg 32%
Sodium 564mg 24%
Potassium 582mg 12%
Vitamin A 280IU 6%
Vitamin C 5.2mg 6%
Calcium 11mg 1%
Iron 0.8mg 4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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Overall Rating

4.9

138 reviews
Excellent

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