Grilled Greek Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Marinating Time: At least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours recommended)

Cook Time: 10-12 minutes

A Taste of the Mediterranean: Grilled Greek Chicken Skewers

Transport your taste buds to the sun-drenched shores of Greece with these incredibly flavorful Greek Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers. Marinated in a vibrant blend of lemon juice, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, these succulent chicken pieces are grilled to perfection, resulting in a dish that is both healthy and bursting with fresh, aromatic flavors. Perfect for a summer barbecue, a quick weeknight dinner, or a delightful appetizer, these skewers are incredibly versatile and easy to make.

Ingredients for the Perfect Greek Chicken Skewers

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch wedges
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes

Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Grilled Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. This fragrant marinade is the key to infusing the chicken with that classic Greek flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring that each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken to a resealable bag. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or preferably for 2-4 hours. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful and tender it will become. Do not marinate for longer than 4 hours, as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much, resulting in a mushy texture.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, prepare your vegetables. Wash and chop the bell peppers and red onion into roughly 1-inch pieces. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning on the grill.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, red onion, and cherry tomatoes onto the skewers. Alternate the ingredients to create visually appealing and flavorful skewers. Tip: Leave a small space between each piece to allow for even cooking.
5. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F or 190-200°C). Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Chicken Skewers

• Chicken Size Matters: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces (about 1-inch cubes) to ensure even cooking.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Grill: Avoid overcrowding the grill, as this can lower the temperature and result in unevenly cooked chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
• Control the Heat: Keep a close eye on the grill temperature and adjust as needed to prevent the skewers from burning.
• Resting is Key: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling is crucial for retaining its moisture and flavor.

Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions

These Greek Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving them with: