Chicken Skewers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken skewers are quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with flavor. The marinade infuses the chicken with delicious seasoning, while skewering creates perfect portion sizes for serving and sharing. Whether you’re cooking indoors or outside, these skewers work with many cooking methods and can be adapted to suit any cuisine—from Mediterranean to Asian to classic BBQ.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Soy sauce or salt
• Black pepper
• Paprika or chili powder (optional for spice)
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Optional add-ins: bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, zucchini

Directions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Cut the chicken into 1 to 1½-inch cubes.
3. In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator).
5. Preheat your grill, oven (400°F/200°C), or air fryer.
6. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with vegetables if using.
7. Cook skewers on the grill or in the oven for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
8. Let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes (excluding marination)

Variations

• Mediterranean Style: Add oregano, lemon zest, and serve with tzatziki.
• BBQ Twist: Brush with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
• Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, sesame oil, and a touch of honey in the marinade.
• Spicy Kick: Add hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or chili flakes for extra heat.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with tofu, halloumi, or mushrooms.

Storage/Reheating

Store cooked chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until hot. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the exterior slightly crisp.

FAQs

Can I make chicken skewers ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and assemble the skewers ahead, then refrigerate until ready to cook.

Do I have to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking wooden skewers for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning during cooking.

Can I bake chicken skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through.

What cut of chicken is best?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs offer more flavor and juiciness, but breasts work well too.

How do I know when the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear.

Can I freeze chicken skewers?

Yes, freeze them raw or cooked. For raw, freeze after marinating and assembling. Thaw before cooking.

What sauces pair well with chicken skewers?

Tzatziki, garlic sauce, BBQ sauce, peanut sauce, or a yogurt-based dip all work well.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, metal skewers don’t need soaking and are reusable, making them a great option.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

At least 30 minutes is recommended, but for deeper flavor, marinate for up to 8 hours.

What vegetables go well on skewers?

Bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, and mushrooms are all great choices.

Conclusion

Chicken Skewers are a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish that’s simple to prepare and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re firing up the grill or using your oven, these skewers deliver juicy, flavorful chicken in every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, entertaining, or meal prepping, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite.

Chicken Skewers

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Chicken Skewers are marinated, grilled or baked pieces of juicy chicken threaded onto skewers and cooked to perfection. Easy to customize and packed with flavor, they’re great for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika or chili powder (optional)
• Wooden or metal skewers
• Optional: 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Optional: 1 red onion, chopped
• Optional: 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes
• Optional: 1 zucchini, sliced

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Instructions

1. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. Cut the chicken into 1 to 1½-inch cubes.
3. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, soy sauce, black pepper, and paprika.
4. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 8 hours in the refrigerator.
5. Preheat grill, oven (to 400°F/200°C), or air fryer.
6. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with optional vegetables.
7. Cook for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway through, until chicken is golden and cooked through.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

• Use chicken thighs for juicier skewers, or breasts for a leaner option.
• Don’t skip soaking wooden skewers if grilling or baking.
• Marinate the chicken ahead to save time on cooking day.
• Serve with rice, salad, or flatbread and your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 90mg