Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy meals that are both simple and full of flavor. These grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are everything a summer dinner should be: light, citrusy, and bursting with fresh herbs. Whether you’re planning a backyard cookout or a quick weekday dinner, these skewers make a deliciously easy main dish.
Why These Skewers Work
The secret to incredibly flavorful chicken skewers lies in the marinade. Fresh lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while a blend of garlic, olive oil, and herbs infuses it with Mediterranean-inspired flavor. Grilling adds that irresistible char and smokiness that brings it all together.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked if wooden)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Grill to Perfection
Place skewers on the grill and cook for about 10–12 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through and has a light char.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with rice, grilled vegetables, or a crisp salad.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh herbs for brighter flavor, but dried herbs work in a pinch.
- Add chunks of bell peppers, red onion, or zucchini to the skewers for extra color and nutrients.
- Don’t skip the resting time after grilling it helps the juices settle for tender, juicy bites.
Grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are a foolproof way to enjoy healthy, satisfying flavor from the grill. Quick to prep and cook, they’re great for meal prep, gatherings, or just enjoying a bit of summer any day of the week.