Bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your table with these delightful Mediterranean Chicken Skewers. Marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, and aromatic spices, these skewers offer a delicious and healthy meal option. Perfect for grilling season or a quick weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade:
- 1 pound (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon, approximately 3 tablespoons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground coriander
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Optional Vegetables:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1 cup red onion, cut into chunks
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly with the marinade.
- Seal and chill in the refrigerator for a minimum of 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a deeper flavor infusion.
- Prepare the Skewers:
- To prevent burning, soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before use.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with cherry tomatoes, bell pepper chunks, and red onion chunks if using.
- Grill the Skewers:
- Place the skewers on the preheated grill.
- Grill for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning periodically, until the chicken is fully cooked and has developed a flavorful char.
- The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve:
- Transfer the grilled chicken skewers to a serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Skewers are a delicious and healthy option that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen. The combination of marinated chicken with optional colorful vegetables makes for a visually appealing and tasty dish. Serve these skewers with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or warm pita bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean with each bite!