Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Zesty Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Fancy a taste of the Med? Honestly, who doesn't? These Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are your passport to flavour town.
The zest of lemon and the kick of garlic... what's not to love?
Brief Overview
This recipe is inspired by sunny Mediterranean cuisine. It's super easy and only takes about an hour from start to finish, including marinating.
This recipe makes 4 servings perfect for a small family or a cosy get-together with mates.
Main Benefits
The marinade in Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers is packed with vitamin C from all that lemon! This dish is ideal for a BBQ Chicken Skewers or light summer dinner, giving you an Easy Grilled Chicken Recipes .
What makes it special? It's a breeze to make and tastes like you've been slaving away for hours.
Ready to see how to create Grilled Chicken Skewers ?
What's the Buzz About These Chicken Skewers?
Think of these Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken as a mini-vacation on a stick! They bring sunshine and deliciousness to your plate.
I had them last week while watching the footie. Honestly the best Summer Grilling Recipes ever!
Origin and Inspiration
These Mediterranean Chicken Skewers take their cues from the sunny shores of Greece and Italy. Imagine sitting by the sea, tucking into flavourful skewers.
That’s the vibe we're aiming for. It has the same zing as your nan's sunday roast!
Easy Peasy, Lemon Squeezy
Making Garlic Chicken Skewers is seriously straightforward. You just need a little chopping, some mixing, and a hot grill. The hardest part is waiting for the chicken to marinate.
I'm terrible at waiting!
Ingredients That Make the Magic Happen
Let’s gather the troops! The star of the show is, of course, chicken. We’ll also need some colourful bell peppers and a red onion to make these Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers pop! Don't forget the garlic and lemon for that signature zing.
Ingredients & Equipment for Amazing Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
So, you wanna make the best Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers ever? Awesome! Let's talk about what you'll need. No fancy-pants stuff, just the good stuff.
Main Ingredients: Your Flavor Foundation
- Olive Oil: 1/4 cup (60ml). Go for extra virgin for the best flavor, innit?
- Lemon Juice: 1/4 cup (60ml). That's about 2 lemons. Fresh is always best, trust me.
- Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Don't be shy, garlic is life!
- Lemon Zest: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Zest from those same 2 lemons.
- Oregano: 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh, chopped or 1 teaspoon dried.
- Thyme: 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml).
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml).
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml). Optional, if you're feeling spicy.
- Chicken Breasts: 1.5 pounds (680g), boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch cubes. The chicken should look plump and pink, not grey or slimy.
- Bell Peppers: 1 red and 1 yellow , cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Red Onion: 1 , cut into 1-inch wedges.
Seasoning Notes: The Magic Touch
Essential spice combinations ? Lemon, garlic, oregano and thyme are the holy grail! Flavor enhancers and aromatics ? A touch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
Want a quick substitution ? Dried herbs work fine if you don't have fresh. Just use about 1/3 the amount.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
Essential tools only . You really don't need much for Grilled Chicken Skewers .
- Grill: Gas or charcoal. Whatever tickles your fancy.
- Mixing Bowl: For the marinade.
- Whisk: To mix the marinade.
- Cutting Board and Knife: For chopping.
- Skewers: Wooden or metal. Soak wooden ones in water for 30 minutes to stop them burning.
- Grilling Tongs: For turning the skewers.
- Meat Thermometer: (Optional) but recommended. Chicken needs to hit 165° F ( 74° C) .
Honestly, if you don't have a whisk, a fork will do in a pinch. The marinade is just the beginning of the journey to the best Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers .
Making Mediterranean Chicken Skewers is super easy. I promise! Get ready for an amazing summer grilling recipe!
Cooking Method
Let's Talk Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Honestly, who doesn't love a good skewer? Especially when it involves tender chicken, zesty lemon, and fragrant garlic. These Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers are seriously addictive.
I love this recipe, they are perfect for a summer BBQ. This is perfect if you’re feeling fancy. Think sunshine on a stick! Let's dive in.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
- Essential Mise en Place : Chop those peppers, onions, and chicken into 1-inch pieces. Mince that garlic! Zest and juice those lemons. Measure out the herbs and spices. Basically, get everything prepped before you start. It will make your life a million times easier.
- Time-Saving Organization Tips : Marinate the chicken in the morning. Then you just need to assemble the skewers right before grilling. Soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes if you are using them. Prevents burning, trust me!
- Safety Reminders : Always wash your hands after handling raw chicken. Don't use the same cutting board for veggies that you used for raw meat. Keep everything separate, you know?
Step-by-Step Process: Grilling Like a Pro
- Whisk together all the marinade ingredients in a big bowl. Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, lemon zest, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and those optional red pepper flakes.
- Add the chicken to the marinade and toss it. Make sure every piece is coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours ).
- Thread the chicken, bell peppers, and red onion onto the skewers. Alternate, so they look pretty!
- Preheat your grill to medium heat ( 350- 400° F ).
- Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 5- 6 minutes per side. Turn them occasionally. Make sure that the chicken reaches 165° F internally. That is important.
- Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pro Tips: Level Up Your Skewer Game
- Expert Technique : Don’t overcrowd the skewers! Leave space between the ingredients for even cooking.
- Common Mistake : Overcooking the chicken. This is a common mistake. Use a meat thermometer to avoid dry, rubbery chicken.
- Make-Ahead : The marinade can be made a day in advance. Store it in the fridge. This Chicken Skewer Marinade works wonders.
So there you have it, my friends! Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken that's easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. These Garlic Chicken Skewers are a sure-fire way to impress. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes for the Best Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers Ever!
Alright, you've got the recipe for these incredible Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers , but let's chat about some extra bits and bobs.
These are designed to make your skewers the envy of the neighborhood BBQ. Honestly, these Garlic Chicken Skewers are dead easy, but a few extra tips never hurt, right?
Serving Suggestions: Dress 'Em Up!
Okay, so you've got your Lemon Garlic Chicken Skewers hot off the grill. How should you serve them? Forget just plopping them on a plate!
Plating and Presentation: Arrange the Grilled Chicken Skewers on a bed of couscous or quinoa. Drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped chives. Fancy, innit?
Complementary Sides and Beverages: A Greek salad is an absolute winner with these Mediterranean Chicken Skewers . Think tomatoes, cucumber, feta.
Delicious! Also, try some crusty bread for soaking up all those lovely juices. For drinks? A crisp white wine or even a refreshing lemonade works a treat.
A bottle of Mythos beer from Greece will be the final touch for your delicious Grilled Lemon Garlic Chicken .
Storage Tips: Keep 'Em Fresh
Made too many Lemon Garlic Chicken beauties? No worries!
Refrigeration Guidelines: Cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days . That's it, yeah?
Freezing Options: I wouldn't recommend freezing the already grilled skewers, the texture of the chicken could change, but if you're desperate, freeze the marinated chicken before threading them onto the skewers.
Then you can get them ready for the grill anytime.
Reheating Instructions: Pop them in the oven at 350° F ( 175° C) for about 10- 15 minutes , or until heated through.
You can also microwave them, but they might get a bit rubbery. Best to warm them in the oven or on the grill to maintain that BBQ Chicken Skewers flavour!
Variations: Mix It Up a Bit!
Want to put your own spin on these Easy Grilled Chicken Recipes ? Go for it!
Dietary Adaptations: For a low-carb version, skip the sides of rice or couscous and serve with a big green salad.
To make it gluten-free, double-check your marinade ingredients (especially if using bottled lemon juice) to ensure they are gluten-free.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In the autumn, add some chunks of butternut squash to the skewers. In spring, use asparagus. Get creative, babe!
Nutrition Basics: The Good Stuff
Alright, so you want to know what you're putting into your body. The estimated calories for one serving of Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are about 350.
They’re packed with protein, relatively low in fat. The lemon and garlic are also brilliant for your immune system. Pretty good, eh?
Honestly, these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers are a winner. Don't be afraid to experiment! Get grilling and have a good time. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate the chicken for these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers? Is overnight okay?
For the best flavour, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. However, I wouldn't recommend marinating for longer than 2 hours. The lemon juice in the marinade is great for flavour, but if it sits too long, it can start to break down the chicken protein, making it a bit mushy - and nobody wants a soggy bottom, right?
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones for these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers?
Absolutely! Metal skewers are a great alternative to wooden ones. They're reusable, conduct heat a little better (which can help cook the chicken more evenly), and you don't have to worry about them catching fire. Just be careful when handling them after they come off the grill as they'll be hot to touch – think of them as the culinary equivalent of a hot cuppa, handle with care!
What's the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out when grilling these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers?
The key to juicy chicken is to not overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Also, resting the chicken for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful skewer. Think of it like letting a good cup of tea steep – patience pays off!
What are some good side dishes to serve with these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers?
These skewers are incredibly versatile! They pair wonderfully with a classic Greek salad, lemon herb rice, or even a dollop of tzatziki sauce for dipping. For something a bit heartier, consider a grilled vegetable medley or some roasted potatoes. Basically, anything that complements the bright, zesty flavors will be a winner – it's a bit like finding the perfect pint to go with your fish and chips!
Can I make these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers ahead of time? How should I store leftovers?
You can definitely prep these skewers in advance! You can marinate the chicken, assemble the skewers, and keep them covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. Cooked leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge and are best enjoyed within 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to avoid drying them out. They're almost as good as a Boxing Day sandwich, almost!
I'm watching my calories, what are the nutritional considerations for these Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers?
These skewers are naturally quite healthy, being lean protein and packed with fresh flavors! To keep the calorie count down, be mindful of the amount of olive oil you use in the marinade and load up on the vegetables. Serving with a light side dish like a big salad will complete the healthy meal. Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs, making it a guilt-free pleasure, just like a cheeky Nandos!
