Mediterranean Chicken Skewers: A Flavorful Feast

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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).
  5. 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!

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