Save These Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers make the ultimate summer meal. Tender chunks of chicken soak up a lemony, garlicky marinade bursting with fresh herbs. A quick spin on the grill leaves them juicy inside and perfectly charred outside. I turn to this recipe whenever I need something crowd-pleasing, healthy, and bright for backyard dinners or simple family nights.
I first made these skewers for a spontaneous Friday night with friends. Ever since, they have been my go-to for any cookout when I want a guaranteed hit with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken stays lean and cooks quickly Pick fresh meat with no pink spots or odors
- Extra virgin olive oil: Lends rich flavor and locks in moisture Look for one with peppery notes and a fresh smell
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens and tenderizes Use ripe juicy lemons for best flavor
- Fresh parsley: Adds herby freshness Choose bunches with no wilted leaves
- Fresh oregano or dried oregano: Brings classic Mediterranean notes If using dried make sure it is still fragrant
- Fresh thyme or dried thyme: More aromatic complexity Fresh sprigs should have a vibrant green color
- Garlic cloves: Minced garlic deepens the marinade Use firm bulbs with no green shoots
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and highlighting the other flavors
- Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional touch for heat Go for fresh flakes for more punch
- Large lemon for rounds: Grilled lemon caramelizes and adds another layer of tang Choose lemons with smooth heavy skins
- Olive oil for brushing on grill: Prevents sticking and adds subtle flavor Use the same good-quality oil as in marinade
Instructions
- Make the Marinade:
- In a large mixing bowl pour the olive oil and lemon juice together Whisk in the parsley oregano thyme minced garlic salt black pepper and if you like a gentle heat the red pepper flakes Keep whisking until all the herbs are evenly suspended in the liquid
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into even-sized pieces around an inch and a half Place into the bowl with marinade Toss everything so the chicken is well coated Cover tightly and chill in the refrigerator for half an hour to soak in all those flavors Longer marinating up to two hours makes it even tastier
- Prepare the Skewers:
- If using wooden skewers submerge them in water now for at least thirty minutes to prevent charring on the grill This step helps keep the sticks from burning up
- Thread the Chicken:
- Once the chicken has marinated thread the chunks onto your skewers Press them snugly but not too tight Optionally slip lemon rounds between the pieces so the citrus grills and perfumes the meat
- Get the Grill Ready:
- Heat your grill or grill pan to medium-high Brush the grill grates with a little olive oil to help keep everything from sticking Wait until the grill is hot before adding the skewers
- Grill to Perfection:
- Lay the skewers on the grill and close the lid or cover with foil Cook for about twelve to fifteen minutes turning every few minutes to brown all sides and keep them moist The chicken is done when the outside is just charred the juices run clear and the inside reaches one hundred sixty-five degrees Fahrenheit
- Rest and Serve:
- After grilling let the skewers rest on a plate for two or three minutes before serving This lets the juices settle back into the meat making every bite more tender
Save There is something magic when the fresh lemon hits the hot grill and perfumes the whole backyard Once my son tried a leftover skewer cold with a scoop of hummus and now he always asks for extra just for tomorrow's lunch
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They stay moist and are delicious cold or reheated Gently warm leftovers in a low oven to preserve their juiciness
Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken thighs make the skewers extra juicy and forgiving on the grill You can swap herbs based on what you have at home Basil or rosemary both work If you skip fresh lemon juice try a splash of white wine or red wine vinegar instead
Serving Suggestions
Serve over warm rice or couscous with a side of grilled vegetables Tzatziki or a bright salad will keep things fresh These skewers also pair perfectly with pita or wrapped up in flatbread
Cultural and Historical Context
Mediterranean grilling traditions often rely on citrus and herbs as an easy way to transform simple proteins Like many Greek and Turkish recipes these skewers are built around fresh accessible flavors perfect for family meals or outdoor celebrations
Seasonal Adaptations
Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini chunks to your skewers when summer produce is at its peak Swap parsley for mint in spring for a cool twist In cooler months grill the skewers indoors on a grill pan They still hold onto their zippy Mediterranean taste
Success Stories
Many friends have texted me photos of their grilling victories using this marinade Even picky eaters seem to love the bright punchy flavor My family now expects this meal for every birthday cookout It is a new tradition at our house
Freezer Meal Conversion
Freeze the chicken pieces right in the marinade in a zip bag for up to two months Thaw in the fridge overnight and grill as usual The meat will be super tender from marinating as it defrosts
Save These skewers will bring fresh Mediterranean flavor to any table Make a double batch for leftovers—they disappear quickly!
Recipe Help & Answers
- → Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and add juiciness and extra flavor to the skewers.
- → Do I need to soak wooden skewers before grilling?
It's recommended to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning during grilling.
- → What sides pair well with these skewers?
Serve with Tzatziki, grilled vegetables, or rice for a balanced and tasty meal experience.
- → Can the marinade be made ahead?
Absolutely! Prepare the marinade in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use for maximum flavor development.
- → What is the ideal grilling temperature for chicken skewers?
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat; aim for an internal chicken temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.