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 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Skewers (wooden or metal)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers for summer barbecues. The combination of fresh lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and tender chicken creates a dish that is both light and flavorful. We always marinate the chicken for at least an hour, which infuses it with tangy goodness. These skewers are perfect for outdoor gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, they cook quickly, making them an easy go-to option that I can whip up without much fuss!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T17:49:27.264Z

When I first tried making these skewers, I was amazed at how the simple ingredients created such vibrant flavors. The key is to use fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, which not only add depth but also create an irresistible aroma while grilling. Trust me, it's worth it to get fresh herbs rather than dried!

Another tip I've learned is to soak the wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before using them. This prevents them from burning on the grill and ensures your chicken cooks beautifully. Give these skewers a shot at your next cookout; they’ll be a hit!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Bright and zesty flavors that elevate any meal.
Lean protein that’s deliciously juicy and tender.
Quick to prepare and perfect for gatherings.

Choosing the Right Chicken

When preparing these Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers, the choice of chicken plays a crucial role in achieving the desired texture and flavor. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they cook quickly and evenly on the grill. If you prefer a juicier option, you could use chicken thighs instead, which have a higher fat content and remain tender even if slightly overcooked during grilling.

Cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes ensures that they cook evenly. If your pieces are too large, they'll take longer to cook, risking a dry exterior. Conversely, smaller pieces may cook too quickly, leading to a rubbery texture. Aim for uniformity in size for the best results.

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

The marinade is a vital component of these skewers, as it not only infuses flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken. The acidity from the fresh lemon juice breaks down the proteins, resulting in a juicy texture. Marinating for a minimum of one hour is essential; however, marinating overnight can yield even more pronounced flavors and a tender bite. Just be cautious not to marinate too long; over-exposure to acidic ingredients can lead to a mushy texture.

Feel free to experiment with the herbs in the marinade. While parsley and thyme create a refreshing profile, consider adding chopped fresh oregano or rosemary for a different twist. Additionally, if you want a little kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful heat to the marinade.

Grilling Tips for Success

Grilling these chicken skewers to perfection involves preheating your grill to medium-high heat, ideally around 400°F to 450°F (200°C to 230°C). This temperature range will give you nicely seared grill marks while ensuring the chicken is thoroughly cooked in about 10 minutes. Keep an eye on them and turn occasionally to prevent sticking and to create those appetizing char marks.

If you notice uneven cooking, it could be due to the placement on the grill. Rotate the skewers for even exposure to heat. Also, ensure the grill grates are properly oiled before placing the skewers on them, as this reduces the likelihood of sticking and facilitates a clean release when turning or removing them.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

For the chicken skewers

1 lb chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Skewers (wooden or metal)

Make sure to have everything ready before you start grilling!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious skewers:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Prepare the Skewers

If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. This prevents burning and helps cook the chicken evenly.

Assemble the Skewers

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

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges and your favorite sides.

Enjoy your delicious grilled skewers!

Pro Tips

Add vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the skewers for extra flavor and color. You could also try different marinades with herbs of your choice.

Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a refreshing Greek salad, which complements the citrus and herb flavors beautifully. Alternatively, a side of garlic or lemon rice can provide a hearty base that soaks up any extra marinade juices.

Additionally, consider serving them with homemade tzatziki sauce or a yogurt-based dip for a cooling contrast. Simply mix yogurt with minced cucumber, garlic, and a dash of lemon juice for a quick and easy accompaniment that enhances the grilled flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning a gathering, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time. Marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling, allowing the flavors to deepen. If you're looking to prep even further in advance, consider freezing the marinated chicken. Just let it thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling; this can be a handy time-saver on busy days.

Once cooked, these skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you have leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Just be careful not to cook them too long, as they can dry out during reheating.

Variations to Try

Feel free to mix and match vegetables with the chicken on the skewers for added color and flavor. Bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work beautifully when grilled alongside the chicken, infusing the skewers with additional moisture and taste. Just be sure to cut the vegetables into similar sizes as the chicken for even cooking.

For a different flavor profile, you could try adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to the marinade for a unique twist. These additions can deepen the savory notes, making your skewers even more complex and delightful. Plus, using different herbs or spices can give the dish a whole new identity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other meats for skewers?

Absolutely! You can use shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.

→ How long will the skewers last in the fridge?

Marinated chicken skewers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place them on a baking sheet, cooking for about 15-20 minutes.

→ What can I serve with the skewers?

These skewers pair wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.