Easy Greek grilled chicken skewers

Juicy grilled chicken skewers marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano and rosemary is a delicious, healthy dinner recipe.

Ingredients needed

Full recipe with amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

• Chicken breasts. Boneless thighs can also be used.
• Olive oil. 
• Fresh lemon juice. 
• Garlic. 
• Oregano. Fresh or dried.
• Rosemary. 
• Sweet Paprika. Not entirely traditional in Greek cooking but I love the color it gives the marinade.
• Salt and pepper.
• Red onion. (optional)

How to make grilled chicken skewers

1. Marinate the chicken: Slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized chunks (approximately 5cm/2in) and place in a large bowl. Combine olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, rosemary, chopped garlic, paprika, salt and pepper and mix well. Pour over the chicken, toss to coat the chicken in the marinade then cover and marinade for at least 20 minutes but up to 24 hours.
2. Skewer and grill: Soak bamboo skewers in water for 30 minutes or alternatively use metal skewers. Thread chicken and chunks of red onion onto skewers. Heat your grill/braai/barbecue or a griddle pan on the stove. Because the chicken cooks relatively quickly high heat works well for this recipe. Cook the chicken skewers for 2-3 minutes per side until the chicken is cooked through, 8-10 minutes in total. Remove from the heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Can I make this in the oven?

Yes, you can. Preheat the broiler (also called a grill or top element) of your oven on its highest setting. Place the skewers on a wire rack set over a foil-lined baking sheet. Broil the chicken, turning every 2-3 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (approximately 10 minutes).

Making ahead and freezing

1. Make ahead: The chicken can be marinated up to a day in advance. Skewers can be assembled and kept covered in the fridge up to a day in advance. Cooked skewers will last for 2-3 days in the fridge.
2. Freezing: The assembled, uncooked skewers can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before cooking.

 

What to serve with chicken skewers

1. Easy flatbread
2. Cucumber, tomato and red onion salad
3. Pea and feta quinoa salad
4. Crispy salt and pepper smashed potatoes

Chicken skewer recipes

1. Easy herby lemon chicken skewers
2. Hawaiian chicken skewers
3. Easy chicken satay with peanut sauce