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Simple Marinated Chicken Skewers

This chicken skewers recipe features tender, juicy pieces of chicken marinated briefly in a flavorful mixture of lemon, garlic, herbs, and spices. The method involves marinating, threading onto skewers, and grilling until golden and smoky, resulting in a visually appealing, flavorful bite with a slight char and succulent texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Grill
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil extra-virgin preferred
  • 1 lemon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon oregano fresh or dried
  • 1 teaspoon thyme fresh or dried
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or regular paprika for less smoky flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Metal skewers
  • Sharp knife

Method
 

  1. Gather your skewers and cut the chicken thighs into 2-inch pieces with a sharp knife, making sure the pieces are uniform for even cooking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, freshly squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper to create the marinade.
  3. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl with the marinade, tossing well so every piece is coated with the flavorful mixture. Cover the bowl and let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to tenderize and deepen the flavors.
  4. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal skewers, leaving small gaps between each piece to ensure even cooking and a good char.
  5. Preheat your grill or grill pan over high heat until it’s shimmering hot—around 430°F (220°C). Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.
  6. Place the skewers on the hot grill, turning them every 2-3 minutes to develop an even golden-brown color and a smoky char. Cook for about 8-10 minutes total, until the chicken is opaque and slightly caramelized.
  7. Check for doneness by ensuring the chicken is cooked through—internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C)—and that the exterior is nicely browned with slight charring.
  8. Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 2 minutes, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum juiciness.
  9. Squeeze fresh lemon over the skewers and sprinkle with extra herbs if desired for a bright, fresh finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the juicy, smoky bites.