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Garlic Lemon Chicken Skewers Recipe

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4.9 from 147 reviews

This Irresistible Chicken Spiedini recipe features tender chicken cubes marinated with olive oil, herbs, and spices, grilled to perfection, and brushed with a zesty garlic butter sauce made with fresh lemon juice, parsley, and garlic. Perfect as a flavorful appetizer or main dish, these skewers combine juicy grilled chicken with a bright, buttery finishing sauce that adds a delicious punch of flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 medium breasts), cut into 1.5-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Zesty Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (3/4 stick)
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced finely
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 medium lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped finely
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Other

  • 8–10 wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

  1. Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent burning during grilling.
  2. Prepare Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into uniform 1.5-inch cubes and pat completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing on the grill.
  3. Marinate Chicken: Place chicken cubes in a large bowl and toss with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, and dried oregano until the pieces are evenly coated with the marinade.
  4. Thread Chicken: Thread 5-6 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving small gaps between pieces to promote even cooking and heat circulation.
  5. Preheat Grill: Heat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (400-425°F) and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
  6. Grill Chicken: Place the chicken skewers on the grill and cook undisturbed for 4-5 minutes to develop a golden crust.
  7. Rotate Skewers: Rotate each skewer a quarter turn and continue grilling for another 4-5 minutes. Repeat rotating until all sides are golden-brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, totaling 12-16 minutes of cooking time.
  8. Prepare Garlic Butter: While chicken grills, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 60-90 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and pale golden (be careful not to burn).
  9. Finish Butter Sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, red pepper flakes if using, and sea salt to create the zesty garlic butter.
  10. Brush Chicken: Transfer cooked chicken skewers to a serving platter and generously brush them on all sides with the prepared garlic butter sauce for a rich, flavorful finish.
  11. Rest and Serve: Let the skewers rest for 2-3 minutes slightly, allowing juices to redistribute, then serve with any remaining garlic butter on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Soaking wooden skewers before grilling prevents them from burning.
  • Patting the chicken dry is essential for a good sear and to avoid steaming.
  • Ensure internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
  • The garlic butter can be prepared in advance and warmed gently before serving.
  • Red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice subtle heat to the dish.