Craving a light and flavorful meal? These Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers are a fantastic option for Healthy Chicken Dinner Ideas. You’ll love how easy they are to prepare and how much fresh, zesty flavor they pack.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Chicken: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed is best. Bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
- Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is recommended.
- Herbs: Dried oregano and fresh parsley are key. You can also use dried thyme.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic offers the best flavor. Garlic powder can be substituted.
- Vegetables for Skewers: Bell peppers (any color) and red onion add color and flavor. Zucchini or cherry tomatoes are also great additions.
Ingredients:
For the Marinade:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Skewers:
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers for 30 minutes if using)
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large bowl, whisk, cutting board, knife, skewers, grill or oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade
Cut your chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a large bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, and cover the bowl. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.
2. Chop Your Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, prepare your vegetables. Cut the bell peppers and red onion into 1-inch pieces, similar in size to your chicken cubes. This ensures even cooking on the skewers.
3. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the chicken and vegetables alternately onto your skewers. You can start and end with a chicken piece, or vary the pattern as you like. Don’t pack the ingredients too tightly, as this can prevent even cooking.
4. Cook the Skewers
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). If grilling, cook for 4-6 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through and lightly charred. If baking, place skewers on a baking sheet and cook for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers from the grill or oven. You can garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. Serve immediately for a delicious and healthy meal.
Variation Ideas:
- Add cherry tomatoes, zucchini, or even mushroom pieces to your skewers.
- For an extra citrus kick, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked skewers.
- Serve with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or a simple Greek salad.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade for a subtle heat.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Greek Lemon Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through. You can also remove the chicken and vegetables from the skewers before storing.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I prepare the marinade ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can mix the marinade ingredients a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Add the chicken when you’re ready to marinate.
Q: What if I don’t have a grill?
A: You can easily bake these skewers in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or use a grill pan on your stovetop.
Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
A: The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Chicken is safely cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but make sure the chicken is fully thawed before cutting and marinating.
Q: Are these skewers good for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! Cook them in advance and portion them out for Healthy Chicken Dinner Ideas throughout your week.
Q: What side dishes pair well with these skewers?
A: Consider serving with a fresh cucumber salad, whole wheat pita bread, or a light quinoa salad.