Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe

Chicken breast: The main protein for the skewers, cut into cubes for even cooking.

Olive oil: Adds moisture and helps the marinade adhere to the chicken.

Lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy flavor that complements the herbs.

Garlic: Adds a robust, savory taste to the marinade.

Dried oregano: A key herb that brings a slightly bitter and earthy flavor.

Dried thyme: Another essential herb that adds a subtle, minty aroma.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth to the marinade.

When marinating the chicken, ensure that each piece is evenly coated with the olive oil and lemon juice mixture. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat. For an even more intense flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator. When threading the chicken onto the skewers, leave a small gap between each piece to ensure even cooking. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

• Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable alternative for skewers.

• Olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, which works well for grilling.

• Freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and citrus flavor, though it will impart a slightly different taste.

• Minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in place of minced garlic, though you may need to adjust the quantity to taste.

• Dried oregano - Substitute with dried basil: Dried basil offers a different but complementary herbaceous flavor that pairs well with chicken.

• Dried thyme - Substitute with dried rosemary: Dried rosemary has a robust, earthy flavor that can stand in for thyme in many recipes.

• Salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor, though it will change the overall taste profile.

• Freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat and peppery flavor, though it is slightly milder and less pungent.

• Allow the chicken skewers to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.
• Place the cooled chicken skewers in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This will keep the chicken fresh and prevent it from absorbing other odors in the fridge.
• Store the chicken skewers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.
• For longer storage, freeze the chicken skewers. Lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place in the freezer until they are solid. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the chicken skewers to a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
• Label the bag or container with the date and contents. The chicken skewers can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• To reheat, thaw the chicken skewers in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them on the grill, in the oven, or in a skillet until they are warmed through.
• If reheating in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake the chicken skewers for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• For a quick reheat, use the microwave. Place the chicken skewers on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
• Serve the reheated chicken skewers with fresh lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs to revive their vibrant flavors.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken skewers on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Cover the skewers with another piece of foil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through. This method helps maintain the juicy texture of the chicken.

• Microwave Method: Place the chicken skewers on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure even heating. This is the quickest method but may slightly alter the texture of the chicken.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil to the pan. Place the chicken skewers in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is heated through. This method can help retain the original grilled flavor.

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Place the chicken skewers back on the grill for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are warmed through. This method will help revive the smoky, charred flavor of the chicken.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even heating. This method keeps the chicken crispy on the outside while reheating it thoroughly.

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl used to combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper with the chicken cubes.

• Measuring spoons: Essential for accurately measuring the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

• Knife: Used to cut the chicken breast into cubes.

• Cutting board: A surface to safely cut the chicken breast into cubes.

• Skewers: Used to thread the marinated chicken cubes for grilling.

• Grill: The cooking equipment used to grill the chicken skewers to perfection.

• Tongs: Handy for turning the chicken skewers on the grill to ensure even cooking.

• Basting brush: Optional, but useful for applying any extra marinade to the chicken while grilling.

• Serving platter: A dish to serve the hot chicken skewers with your favorite sides.

Prepare the marinade in advance: Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper the night before to save time on the day of cooking.

Use pre-cut chicken: Purchase pre-cut chicken breast cubes to skip the cutting step and reduce prep time.

Quick marination: If you're short on time, marinate the chicken in a sealed bag for 15 minutes while you prepare the grill and other ingredients.

Pre-soak wooden skewers: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning and save time during grilling.