Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Name: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces; ¼ cup olive oil; ¼ cup fresh lemon juice; 2 teaspoons lemon zest; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 wooden or metal skewers

Highlighted under: Cozy Home-Cooked Recipes

I absolutely love making these Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. The bright flavors of lemon and herbs infuse the chicken, creating a deliciously juicy and flavorful dish that everyone can enjoy. Marinating the chicken beforehand really enhances the taste, so I like to whip up the marinade early in the day and let the chicken soak up those flavors. Whether served with a fresh salad or on their own, these skewers are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-05T16:17:28.524Z

During one of our family gatherings, I decided to try my hand at skewers. I marinated the chicken in a vibrant mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, and fresh herbs, which turned out to be an absolute hit! The acidity of the lemon not only tenderized the meat but also paired beautifully with the grill’s smoky flavor.

One tip I discovered is to soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling. This prevents them from burning and ensures the chicken cooks evenly. I’ve made these skewers multiple times since then, and they never fail to impress!

Why You'll Love These Skewers
Bright, zesty flavor that enhances the chicken perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
Healthy and fresh, perfect for summer grilling sessions

Marinade Mastery

Creating the perfect marinade is the key to achieving vibrant flavors in these grilled chicken skewers. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, and fresh herbs not only imparts taste but also tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and succulent. I recommend allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if time permits, letting it soak overnight amplifies the flavors even more. The chicken will absorb the herbaceous notes and citrus tang, resulting in a dish that bursts with freshness.

When mixing the marinade, ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated. You want the garlic, parsley, and thyme to evenly flavor every piece of chicken. An easy method to ensure even coating is to use a resealable plastic bag – just add the marinade and chicken, seal, and give it a good shake. This technique not only mixes the ingredients effectively but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Grilling to Perfection

Preheating your grill correctly is crucial for achieving the desired char and flavor on your chicken skewers. Aim for medium-high heat, approximately 375 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature allows the chicken to cook through while developing those gorgeous grill marks. If the grill is too cool, the chicken may stick and lose its juices; too hot, and it can burn before cooking through. A simple test for proper heat is to hold your hand about six inches above the grill – you should be able to hold it there for about 4-5 seconds.

While grilling, turn the skewers every few minutes. This not only promotes even cooking but also helps in developing that appealing golden color on all sides. Look for visual cues: the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and have a light char on the edges. If you're using wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning on the grill.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious skewers:

For the Chicken Skewers

1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
¼ cup olive oil
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons lemon zest
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
8 wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers:

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they've been soaked in water.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, making sure to leave a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking.

Grill the Skewers

Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the chicken skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding bell peppers or zucchini to the skewers. They grill beautifully and add a nice crunch!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the grilled chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’re best consumed within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture. To reheat, I suggest using an oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-12 minutes to preserve moisture. This method allows the chicken to warm up evenly without drying out, unlike reheating in the microwave which can lead to a rubbery texture.

For longer storage, you can freeze the marinated chicken before grilling. Place the marinated chicken in a freezer-safe bag and eliminate as much air as possible before sealing. It will keep well for up to three months. When you're ready to cook, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and grill as instructed. This is a great meal prep strategy for busy weeknights.

Creative Serving Suggestions

These Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with a fresh Mediterranean salad, tabbouleh, or even a light quinoa dish for a wholesome meal. The bright acidity of the lemon enhances both vegetables and grains, creating a harmonious balance on your plate. You can also serve them with a yogurt-based sauce for an intriguing flavor contrast.

For a more casual presentation, slide the skewers off and toss the chicken pieces into wraps with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini or ranch dressing. This creates an easy, satisfying meal that's perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. Don’t be afraid to get creative with dips or sauces that complement the lemon and herb profile, such as a zesty chimichurri or a spicy aioli to spice things up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! These marinades work well with shrimp, tofu, or beef too.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinating for at least 30 minutes is great, but overnight will yield even better results.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, pita bread, or a quinoa side dish.

→ Can I make these skewers in the oven?

Absolutely! Preheat the oven to 400°F and bake for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through.