Zesty Lemon Lime Chicken Skewers Recipe

Ready in about 40 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lime
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

When cutting the chicken into cubes, try to make them as uniform in size as possible. This will ensure even cooking on the grill. The combination of lemon and lime zest along with the fresh juices will give the chicken a vibrant citrus flavor. Don’t skimp on the oregano as it adds a depth of flavor to the marinade. Remember to soak the wooden skewers in water before threading the chicken to prevent them from burning on the grill.

Directions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon zest, lime zest, lemon juice, lime juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the chicken skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through and slightly charred. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the marinade.
• If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can add a touch of honey or maple syrup to the marinade. Adjust the amount to suit your preference.
• To avoid dry chicken, do not overcook the skewers on the grill. Keep an eye on them and remove from the heat once they are just cooked through.
• For a vegetarian option, you can use firm tofu or vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini instead of chicken. Adjust the grilling time accordingly.

Serving & Storage

These Zesty Lemon Lime Chicken Skewers are perfect served with a side of rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables. Garnish with extra lemon and lime wedges for an added burst of citrus flavor. You can also serve them with a dollop of tzatziki or yogurt sauce for added creaminess.

To store leftovers, place the cooled chicken skewers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven or microwave until heated through. You can also enjoy the leftover chicken skewers cold on top of a salad for a refreshing meal.

FAQs

Can I substitute certain ingredients?

You can substitute chicken with tofu or vegetables for a vegetarian option. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can also use different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different flavor profile.

How do I prevent common mistakes?

To prevent dry chicken, make sure not to overcook the skewers on the grill. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness and remove them from the heat promptly. Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes for optimal flavor.

Can I make this ahead or freeze it?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to grill. However, it is not recommended to freeze the cooked chicken skewers as they may become dry upon reheating. If you want to prep ahead, you can chop the chicken and prepare the marinade the night before for a quick assembly the next day.

Conclusion

These Zesty Lemon Lime Chicken Skewers are a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. The combination of citrusy flavors and grilled chicken is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the zesty goodness in every bite!

Recipe