If you’re searching for a light, flavorful, and easy-to-make summer dinner, these Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers are your new go-to recipe. Packed with bright citrus, fragrant herbs, and juicy grilled chicken, they make a perfect addition to cookouts, weeknight meals, or healthy meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These skewers are everything a summer meal should be—fresh, zesty, and easy to grill. The lemon herb marinade infuses the chicken with layers of flavor while keeping it moist and tender. Whether you’re firing up the backyard grill or using an indoor grill pan, this dish delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the chicken skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
How to Make Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
- Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these lemon herb chicken skewers over a bed of rice, alongside grilled vegetables, in a pita wrap with tzatziki, or on top of a fresh summer salad. They’re also great cold the next day for meal prep.
Recipe Tips and Variations
- Add chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or red onion to the skewers for color and variety.
- Swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
- For added flavor, serve with garlic yogurt dip or lemon tahini sauce.
- If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried herbs work too—just use half the amount.
Storage Instructions
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or enjoy cold in salads and wraps.
Health Benefits
This dish is high in lean protein and low in carbs, making it ideal for those following a healthy or low-carb lifestyle. The herbs and lemon juice not only add flavor but also contain antioxidants and immune-boosting properties.
FAQ – Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Can I bake the skewers instead of grilling?
Yes! Bake in a 400°F oven for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is fully cooked.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
A minimum of 30 minutes is ideal, but for the best flavor, marinate for 2–4 hours.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and stay juicier on the grill.
What herbs pair best with lemon for this recipe?
Rosemary, thyme, oregano, and parsley all complement the lemon beautifully.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken and thread it onto skewers up to a day in advance. Grill just before serving for best results.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers marinated in citrus, garlic, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick summer meal or backyard cookout.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 tsp lemon zest
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, rosemary, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes and toss to coat evenly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).
3. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Grill the skewers for 4–5 minutes per side or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. Internal temp should reach 165°F.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs or extra lemon if desired.
Notes
For added variety, alternate chicken with chopped bell peppers or red onion on the skewers.
Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different protein option.
Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days and are great for salads or wraps.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 70mg