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Juicy Grilled Chicken Skewers

juicy grilled chicken skewers - featured image

These juicy grilled chicken skewers with colorful veggies are easy, healthy, and perfect for BBQs. The marinade locks in moisture while the veggies add a satisfying crunch and natural sweetness.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or fresh if available
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 large red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
  • 8 cherry tomatoes (optional)
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before grilling)
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the marinade by whisking together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl.
  2. Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, stir to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, ideally 1 hour.
  3. Chop the bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and rinse the cherry tomatoes, keeping pieces roughly the same size as the chicken cubes.
  4. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning; skip if using metal skewers.
  5. Thread the chicken and veggies alternately onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces for even cooking.
  6. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/200°C).
  7. Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes total, turning every 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear and juices run clear. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  8. Remove skewers from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired and serve warm.

Notes

Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F for safety. Avoid overcrowding skewers to maintain a good char and even cooking. Let skewers rest after grilling to keep chicken juicy.

Nutrition

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