Description
Juicy and flavorful spicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in a bold blend of spices and grilled to perfection. Ideal for summer cookouts or weeknight dinners with a kick.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional, for garnish)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, paprika, cumin, cayenne, chili powder, pepper, and salt.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred (internal temp should be 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove from grill and garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Marinate longer for deeper flavor, but no more than 4 hours to avoid breaking down the chicken texture.
- Serve with rice, salad, or flatbread for a complete meal.
- Can be made under a broiler if a grill isn’t available.
- Adjust cayenne and chili powder for preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 110mg