Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers
Try this Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- wooden skewers
- 2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs (i pre
- 3 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tbsp fresh minced cilantro or parsley (i prefer cilantr
- 2 tsp minced fresh garlic
- Carbohydrate 1.26495090222151 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 4.38505680919056 g
- Fiber 0.218367366649918 g
- Protein 0.167597291642173 g
- Saturated Fat 0.606536681057477 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (165g)
- Sodium 0.623013888897131 mg
- Sugar 1.04658353557159 g
- Trans Fat 0.128244555653992 g
- Calories 43 calories
Step-by-step
- Cut the chicken into 1 1/2 inch strips for skewering.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, cilantro or parsley, crushed garlic, paprika, salt, cumin, turmeric and cayenne pepper.
- Place the chicken pieces in a glass dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken and stir to coat.
- Cover with plastic wrap.
- Place in the refrigerator and let the chicken marinate for 20 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water while the chicken is marinating.
- Generously grease the grill and heat over medium.
- Skewer the chicken, evenly divided between 6-8 skewers.
- Place the skewers on the hot grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning once during cooking, until cooked through.
- Serve hot.
Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, I'm always on the lookout for quick, healthy, and delicious meals that the whole family will enjoy. This Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers recipe has become a staple in our household. It’s incredibly versatile, adaptable to whatever vegetables I have on hand, and always a crowd-pleaser. The bright, zesty marinade tenderizes the chicken beautifully, leaving it juicy and flavorful. Plus, the grilling process adds a lovely smoky char that elevates the dish to another level.
What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. The marinade comes together in minutes, requiring only readily available pantry staples. I usually prep the marinade in the morning and let the chicken marinate in the fridge while I'm at work. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate, resulting in a more intense and delicious final product. Then, when I get home, it takes just 15 minutes to thread the chicken onto skewers and grill them to perfection. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want a flavorful and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability. While I’ve provided a basic recipe, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Adding bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skewers adds color, texture, and extra nutritional value. If you don’t have fresh cilantro, parsley is a great substitute. And for a spicier kick, add a little more cayenne pepper. The possibilities are endless! The marinade is also excellent for other proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, making it a truly versatile recipe that can be adapted to your preferences and dietary needs.
Beyond the convenience and deliciousness, this recipe is also a great way to introduce healthy eating habits to your family. Chicken is a lean protein source, packed with essential nutrients. The marinade adds a burst of flavor without relying on heavy sauces or added sugars. The grilling method preserves the natural flavors of the chicken and vegetables, offering a healthy and satisfying alternative to fried or processed foods. It's a win-win situation: a delicious, healthy, and family-friendly meal that comes together quickly and effortlessly.
This recipe is not just for weeknights; it's perfect for summer barbecues and outdoor gatherings. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas will surely impress your guests. Serve the skewers with a side of rice, couscous, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal. The leftovers are also great for lunch the next day, making this recipe a practical and delicious choice for any occasion.
Making this dish is a true joy, from the simple act of whisking together the fragrant marinade to the satisfying sizzle of the chicken on the grill. It's a recipe that nourishes both the body and the soul, offering a moment of culinary calm amidst the chaos of daily life. So, next time you're looking for a quick, easy, and delicious meal, give this Lemony Marinated Chicken Skewers recipe a try. You won't be disappointed!
Tips and Variations:
- Marinate longer for more intense flavor: Marinating the chicken for a few hours or even overnight will amplify the flavor profile.
- Use different vegetables: Experiment with your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Add a touch of sweetness: A teaspoon of honey or maple syrup in the marinade adds a subtle sweetness that complements the lemony flavors.
- Make it spicier: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper to adjust the heat level according to your preference.
- Grill or bake: If you don't have a grill, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
