Grilled Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and easy meal idea featuring tender, marinated chicken grilled to perfection. Served alongside fluffy rice, pickled vegetables, and a creamy yogurt sauce, this dish is balanced, colorful, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy grilled chicken with a smoky, charred finish
• Easy to prepare, perfect for grilling season
• Balanced with rice, vegetables, and yogurt sauce
• Customizable with your favorite spices or marinades
• Ideal for meal prep or casual entertaining

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice
• Garlic, minced
• Paprika
• Ground cumin
• Salt and pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Sides and Sauce:

• Cooked rice
• Fresh cucumbers or pickled vegetables
• Cherry tomatoes or onions
• Greek yogurt
• Lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (parsley or dill)

Directions

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken, toss to coat, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill skewers 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. For sauce, mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
6. Serve skewers over rice with sauce and vegetables on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes (plus marinating)
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 30–45 minutes

Variations

• Add bell peppers, onions, or tomatoes to the skewers
• Use za’atar or harissa for different flavor profiles
• Substitute with tofu or halloumi for a vegetarian version
• Swap rice for bulgur, couscous, or quinoa

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store chicken, rice, and sauce separately for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat chicken and rice in the microwave or skillet. Serve sauce cold.

FAQs

What cut of chicken is best?

Thighs are juicier, but breasts also work well if not overcooked.

Can I use metal skewers?

Yes, they’re reusable and don’t need soaking like wooden ones.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, turning once.

What sides go well with this?

Serve with rice, salad, flatbread, or grilled vegetables.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, simply adjust spices to suit your family’s taste.

Can I freeze the marinated chicken?

Yes, freeze raw chicken in marinade for up to 2 months.

How long should I marinate?

30 minutes is good, but 2–4 hours yields better flavor.

Can I grill this indoors?

Yes, use a grill pan or broiler.

Can I double the recipe?

Easily scalable for more servings or meal prep.

Can I skip the yogurt sauce?

Yes, use tahini, tzatziki, or hummus as alternatives.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Skewers are a healthy, versatile, and flavorful option for any meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or indoors, this dish delivers juicy, spiced chicken with refreshing sides and creamy yogurt sauce for a complete, satisfying plate.

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