Description
Grilled Chicken Skewers with a flavorful marinade that promises tender, juicy chicken with a smoky char. Perfect for any summer gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
For the Marinade/Basting Sauce:
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely minced
- 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- Wooden or metal skewers
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs and cut them into uniform 1-inch pieces. Set aside.
- Make the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes until the sugar dissolves.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a large zip-top bag. Pour in half of the marinade (reserving the rest for basting) and seal the bag. Gently massage the bag to coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (if using a gas grill) or start a medium-hot fire for charcoal grills. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Grill the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Clean and oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning them every 3-4 minutes for a total of 10-12 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and slightly charred in spots. Baste the chicken with the reserved marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
- Rest the Chicken: Once cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C), remove the skewers from the grill and cover them loosely with foil. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Notes
- Recipe Tips: Preheat the grill to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. Baste frequently for flavor and a beautiful glaze. Soak wooden skewers to prevent burning.
- Variations: Use chicken breasts for a leaner option, or try a yogurt-based marinade for a tangy flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz chicken with marinade
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg