Are you looking for a vibrant, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for summer grilling? Look no further than these Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers. Bursting with zesty citrus and aromatic herbs, this dish offers a refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken. Ideal for outdoor gatherings, barbecues, or a weeknight dinner, these skewers are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Let’s dive into the details of making this mouthwatering recipe.
Ingredients
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice (about 1 orange)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Skewers:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, orange juice, olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This marinade will infuse the chicken with a tangy and herbaceous flavor.
2. Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken cubes in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
3. Prepare the Vegetables
While the chicken marinates, cut the vegetables into chunks. This ensures they cook evenly on the skewers and complement the chicken beautifully.
4. Assemble the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables alternately onto the skewers. For a balanced skewer, try to include a mix of chicken and vegetables in each one.
5. Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with oil to prevent sticking.
6. Grill the Skewers
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Baste the skewers with the reserved marinade during the grilling process for extra flavor and moisture.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers
- Marinate Longer for More Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors and makes the chicken more tender.
- Uniform Cuts: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t overcrowd the skewers. Give each piece enough space for even grilling and to get that delicious char.
Why You’ll Love Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers
These Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers are a fantastic addition to any meal plan. They’re light yet flavorful, making them a great choice for those looking to enjoy a healthier yet satisfying meal. The combination of citrus and herbs creates a bright and invigorating flavor profile that’s perfect for summer grilling. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and cook quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal, these skewers are sure to impress. Try them out and savor the delicious taste of citrus and herbs grilled to perfection!
Serving and Storage Tips for Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers
Serving Tips:
- Accompaniments: Serve Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers with a variety of side dishes to complete your meal. Consider pairing them with a light quinoa salad, roasted potatoes, or a fresh green salad. For added freshness, a side of tzatziki or a simple yogurt dip complements the herbs and citrus.
- Garnish: Garnish the skewers with extra lemon or orange wedges and a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs (like parsley or cilantro) for a vibrant and visually appealing presentation. This also enhances the citrus aroma and flavor.
- Serving Temperature: These skewers are delicious both warm and at room temperature. If serving at a gathering, consider keeping them warm in a slow cooker or chafing dish to maintain their ideal serving temperature.
- Skewer Removal: For easier eating, you can remove the cooked chicken and vegetables from the skewers before serving. This is particularly helpful if you’re serving these at a buffet or potluck.
- Drizzle with Extra Marinade: Just before serving, drizzle a bit of the reserved marinade (that was used for basting) over the skewers for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make the chicken soggy.
- Freezing: If you need to store the skewers for a longer period, you can freeze them. Place the cooled skewers in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat the skewers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat them on the grill over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally.
- Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry. Heating gently and evenly is key to preserving the moist texture of the chicken.
- Marinade Use: If you have leftover marinade, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Use it as a flavorful sauce or dip, but make sure to boil it before using it as a sauce to ensure it’s safe if it was in contact with raw chicken.
By following these serving and storage tips, you can ensure that your Citrus Herb Chicken Skewers are enjoyed at their best, whether you’re serving them fresh off the grill or reheating leftovers.
1. Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the chicken with other types of meat or even tofu. Pork tenderloin, beef sirloin, or shrimp work well with the citrus and herb marinade. Adjust the cooking times accordingly: pork and beef may need a bit longer to cook through, while shrimp will cook faster.
2. How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour. If you have more time, marinating overnight in the refrigerator will allow the flavors to penetrate deeper, making the chicken even more flavorful and tender.
3. Can I cook the skewers in the oven if I don’t have a grill?
Yes, you can cook the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. How do I prevent the wooden skewers from burning on the grill?
To prevent wooden skewers from burning, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before using. This helps to keep them from catching fire and ensures they cook evenly. If you’re using metal skewers, this step is not necessary.