Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and highly customizable. The simple marinade enhances the taste of the juicy chicken and crisp-tender vegetables, all while staying light and healthy. Ideal for summer grilling or indoor grill pans, this dish is quick to cook, easy to serve, and great for all ages.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
zucchini
red onion
cherry tomatoes
olive oil
lemon juice
garlic
dried oregano
paprika
salt
pepper
wooden or metal skewers
Directions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut chicken into 1½-inch cubes. Chop vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Thread marinated chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating for color and flavor.
- Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 32 minutes (excluding marinating)
Variations
- Different Proteins: Use shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken.
- Add More Veggies: Try mushrooms, squash, or eggplant.
- Spicy Option: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Asian Twist: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for a teriyaki-inspired version.
- Herb Marinade: Add chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for an herby flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
To freeze, remove cooked chicken and veggies from the skewers and freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I prepare the skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to grill.
How do I keep the chicken from drying out?
Don’t overcook it. Using thighs instead of breasts also helps keep the meat juicy.
Do I have to marinate the chicken?
Marinating enhances flavor, but if you’re short on time, a quick 15-minute soak can still make a difference.
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.
What’s the best grill temperature for skewers?
Medium-high heat (about 375–400°F) is ideal for a good sear without burning the vegetables.
Should I oil the grill?
Yes, oil the grates or use a grill spray to prevent sticking.
Can I use metal skewers?
Absolutely. Metal skewers don’t require soaking and are reusable.
What sides go well with grilled skewers?
Serve with rice, couscous, salad, or warm pita bread for a complete meal.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and no longer be pink inside.
Can I use a store-bought marinade?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite bottled marinade for convenience.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a vibrant, delicious, and nutritious meal that’s perfect for grilling season or any time you crave something fresh and flavorful. With endless customization options and quick cook time, this dish is ideal for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekend gatherings. Enjoy the smoky char, juicy chicken, and crisp vegetables in every bite.
PrintGrilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a fresh, flavorful, and colorful dish made with marinated chicken and a medley of vegetables, grilled to perfection. Perfect for summer meals, meal prep, or entertaining.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Calorie
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Cut the chicken and vegetables into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating ingredients.
- Grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and grill marks appear.
- Serve hot with optional fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon.
Notes
- Use metal skewers to avoid soaking time and for easier handling.
- Cut vegetables and chicken to uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
- Marinate in a resealable bag for easy cleanup.
- Serve with a yogurt sauce or tzatziki for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
