Marinated Chicken Skewers on the Grill Recipe
There’s something about marinated chicken skewers on the grill that just screams summer. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, a family gathering, or just looking to enjoy a casual meal outdoors, this dish is always a hit.
The combination of juicy, tender chicken infused with a flavorful marinade and that irresistible char from the grill makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
The beauty of chicken skewers lies in their simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients and a bit of prep time, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, the possibilities for customization are endless—whether you prefer your chicken spicy, sweet, or savory, there’s a marinade that’s perfect for you. Serve these skewers with a variety of sides, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress.
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Chicken for Marination
Start by cutting the chicken into even-sized pieces, about 1 to 1.5 inches in size. This ensures that the chicken cooks evenly on the grill. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the marinade adhere better.
2. Creating the Perfect Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, garlic, lemon juice or vinegar, soy sauce, honey or brown sugar, and your chosen herbs and spices. Make sure the marinade is well-combined. The goal is to create a balance of acidity, sweetness, and savory flavors.
3. Marinating Time: How Long is Enough?
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours, but no more than 24 hours. Over-marinating can lead to mushy chicken, as the acids in the marinade start breaking down the protein too much.
4. Skewering the Chicken
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water to prevent burning. Be sure not to overcrowd the skewers—leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Grilling Techniques
Preheating the Grill: Gas vs. Charcoal
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If you’re using a gas grill, this usually means turning the burners to medium and allowing the grill to heat up with the lid closed. For a charcoal grill, light the coals and allow them to burn until they’re covered with white ash. Spread the coals evenly for consistent heat.
Direct vs. Indirect Grilling
For chicken skewers, you’ll want to use direct grilling. This means placing the skewers directly over the heat source. However, if you notice the chicken starting to char too quickly, you can move them to indirect heat (a cooler part of the grill) to finish cooking without burning.
Flipping and Timing: How to Achieve Even Cooking
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes to ensure even cooking on all sides. Use tongs to handle the skewers, and if you’re using a basting brush, feel free to brush on some of the remaining marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
Tips for Juicy and Tender Chicken
Avoid pressing down on the chicken with your tongs, as this can squeeze out the juices. If you’re worried about the chicken drying out, keep a spray bottle of water nearby to lightly mist the grill, which can create steam and keep the chicken moist.
Customization Ideas
Adding Vegetables to the Skewers
Make your skewers more colorful and nutritious by adding vegetables. Bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini all grill beautifully and complement the marinated chicken. Just remember to cut the vegetables into similar sizes as the chicken to ensure even cooking.
Spicy, Sweet, or Savory: Tailoring the Marinade to Your Taste
One of the best things about marinated chicken skewers is how customizable they are. For a spicy version, add more chili flakes or even some sriracha to the marinade. If you prefer a sweeter profile, increase the honey or brown sugar. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature marinade.
Serving Sauces and Dips
No grilled chicken skewer is complete without a delicious dipping sauce. Here are a few ideas:
- Garlic Aioli: Creamy and rich, perfect for those who love garlic.
- Tzatziki: A refreshing yogurt-based dip with cucumber and dill.
- Peanut Sauce: For a Thai-inspired twist, made with peanut butter, soy sauce, and lime juice.
- Chimichurri: A zesty and herby sauce from Argentina, made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar.
- Barbecue Sauce: A classic choice, especially if you like your skewers with a smoky-sweet finish.
Salads that Complement Grilled Chicken
- Greek Salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese tossed in a lemon-oregano vinaigrette. This salad’s bright and tangy flavors pair well with the savory chicken.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a classic Caesar salad provide a satisfying contrast to the grilled chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A healthy, protein-packed option that can be mixed with vegetables, herbs, and a light vinaigrette.
Grains and Starches for a Complete Meal
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and slathered in butter, corn on the cob is a quintessential barbecue side.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice cooked with onions, garlic, and broth—simple, yet flavorful, and perfect for soaking up any leftover marinade.
- Potato Salad: A creamy, tangy potato salad is a classic choice for any grilling event.
Beverage Pairings: From Beer to Lemonade
- Beer: A cold, crisp lager or pale ale complements the smoky flavors of the chicken and the grill.
- Lemonade: Homemade lemonade with a hint of mint is refreshing and balances the savory notes of the chicken.
- Iced Tea: Sweet or unsweetened, iced tea is a versatile beverage that pairs well with the bold flavors of the marinade.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When grilling marinated chicken skewers, a few common mistakes can hinder your results. Here’s how to avoid them:
Over-Marinating the Chicken
While it’s tempting to let the chicken marinate for hours or even overnight, too much time in an acidic marinade can break down the proteins excessively, leading to a mushy texture. Stick to 2-4 hours for the best results.
Grilling at the Wrong Temperature
Grilling chicken skewers at too high a temperature can cause the exterior to burn before the inside is cooked through. Conversely, grilling at too low a temperature can result in dry, overcooked chicken. Aim for medium-high heat to achieve that perfect balance.
Not Soaking Wooden Skewers
If you’re using wooden skewers, soaking them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling is essential. This prevents them from burning and breaking apart on the grill.
Nutritional Information
Calorie Count and Nutritional Breakdown
Marinated chicken skewers are a relatively healthy option, especially if you use lean chicken breasts. Here’s a general nutritional breakdown per skewer:
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 per skewer, depending on the size and marinade ingredients.
- Protein: 25-30 grams, making this dish a great source of lean protein.
- Fat: 5-10 grams, primarily from the olive oil in the marinade.
- Carbohydrates: Minimal, unless you add sugar or honey to the marinade.
- Sodium: Can vary depending on the amount of soy sauce and salt used.
Making it Healthier: Leaner Cuts and Low-Sodium Marinades
To reduce the fat content, opt for chicken breasts instead of thighs and use less olive oil in the marinade. If you’re watching your sodium intake, choose a low-sodium soy sauce or omit it altogether, substituting with more herbs and spices for flavor.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover chicken skewers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to remove the chicken from the skewers before storing to save space and ensure even reheating.
How to Reheat Grilled Chicken Skewers Without Drying Them Out
To reheat, place the chicken skewers in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat them on the grill for a few minutes on each side, or in a microwave, though the latter may dry out the chicken.
Can You Freeze Marinated Chicken Skewers?
Yes, you can freeze marinated chicken skewers before grilling. Place the skewered chicken in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to use, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling.
FAQs
What’s the best chicken cut for skewers?
Chicken breasts are the most popular cut for skewers due to their lean nature and quick cooking time. However, chicken thighs offer more flavor and tenderness, making them an excellent choice as well.
Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake chicken skewers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the skewers on a lined baking sheet for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. You can broil them for the last few minutes to add a bit of char.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. Avoid marinating for more than 24 hours, as the acids in the marinade can break down the meat too much, leading to a mushy texture.
What can I use if I don’t have a grill?
If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers on a grill pan on your stovetop, bake them in the oven, or even use a broiler. Each method will yield slightly different results but will still be delicious.
Can I prepare the skewers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the skewers up to a day in advance. Marinate the chicken and assemble the skewers, then cover and refrigerate until ready to grill.
Marinated Chicken Skewers on the Grill Recipe
There’s something about marinated chicken skewers on the grill that just screams summer. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ, a family gathering, or just looking to enjoy a casual meal outdoors, this dish is always a hit. The combination of juicy, tender chicken infused with a flavorful marinade and that irresistible char from the grill makes it a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons finely minced fresh ginger
- 3 medium cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- For the chicken:
- 3 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
Instructions
Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cutting them into pieces approximately 1-inch wide. Set the chicken aside for now.
In a medium bowl, mix together all the ingredients for the marinade. Ensure everything is well combined to form a uniform mixture. Transfer the chicken pieces to a large zip-lock bag and pour in half of the marinade. Reserve the other half of the marinade for basting later. Seal the bag and gently massage it to ensure all the chicken pieces are thoroughly coated. Refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 4 hours.
Prepare your grill by heating it to a medium-high setting if using a gas grill, or start a medium-hot fire if using a charcoal grill. If you’re using wooden skewers, make sure to soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent them from burning.
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Clean the grill grate and oil it using a paper towel dipped in oil and held with tongs, or use a spray oil. Arrange the skewers on the grill and cook, rotating them one-quarter turn every 3-4 minutes. This should take around 10-12 minutes until the chicken is golden brown.
Throughout grilling, baste the chicken with the reserved marinade, turning frequently until the chicken is nicely charred in places. The exact cooking time can vary based on your grill’s temperature.
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and cover them loosely with foil. Allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the juices are evenly distributed.