Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
35 mins
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Total Time
40 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
258 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
Middle Eastern
Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers
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.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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.
- Generously grease the grill and heat over medium. Skewer the chicken, evenly divided between 6-8 skewers.
- 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 DetailsNutrition 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.