There’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma of grilled chicken skewers sizzling over an open flame. Marinated Chicken Skewers on the Grill are a summer staple—juicy, charred, and bursting with bold, savory flavor in every bite. These skewers are marinated in a blend of olive oil, garlic, herbs, and lemon juice, making them tender and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for cookouts, backyard dinners, or easy weeknight meals, these skewers are quick to prepare and cook in minutes. Serve them with grilled vegetables, fresh salads, or fluffy rice for a meal that’s as balanced as it is satisfying.
What Makes These Chicken Skewers Special?
The key is in the marinade—simple ingredients that work together to tenderize the chicken and infuse it with flavor. The result is meat that stays juicy on the grill, with a crispy charred outside and tender inside. Skewering the chicken also makes it perfect for entertaining or meal prepping, and you can customize the flavor to suit any cuisine.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Marinate Time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: Up to 1 hour 15 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1½-inch chunks
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (fresh)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Optional: chopped parsley or lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken chunks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Soak Skewers (if using wooden)
While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
4. Skewer the Chicken
Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, spacing the pieces slightly for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
6. Serve
Transfer skewers to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Variations
- Mediterranean Style: Add chunks of bell pepper, red onion, and cherry tomatoes to the skewers.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- Asian Inspired: Swap lemon juice for rice vinegar, and oregano for soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Herb Boost: Add chopped fresh rosemary, thyme, or basil for more garden-fresh flavor.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Grill (gas or charcoal)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
- Mixing bowl and whisk
- Tongs
- Basting brush (optional)
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Marinated (uncooked) chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
My Cooking Experience
Grilling marinated chicken skewers is one of my favorite summer traditions. I love how fast they cook and how versatile they are—great for serving a crowd or keeping meal prep interesting. The marinade is simple but powerful, and the char from the grill brings everything to life. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or just craving something grilled, these skewers always deliver.
Conclusion
Marinated Chicken Skewers on the Grill are a go-to for flavor-packed, healthy meals that don’t require much fuss. Juicy, quick-cooking, and endlessly adaptable, they’re perfect for summer gatherings, meal prep, or just a casual dinner with family. Fire up the grill and get ready to savor every delicious bite!
marinated chicken skewers on the grill
Ingredients
Method
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken chunks to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- While the chicken marinates, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, spacing the pieces slightly for even cooking.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Grill skewers for 12–15 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and nicely charred on the outside.
- Transfer skewers to a platter and garnish with chopped parsley or lemon wedges if desired. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Marinated (uncooked) chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months.
