Lemon Rosemary Chicken Skewers
These Lemon Rosemary Chicken Skewers are the perfect summer grilling recipe that combines bright citrus flavors with earthy rosemary in a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken pieces marinated in fresh lemon juice, olive oil, and aromatic rosemary creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
This grilled lemon rosemary chicken skewers with roasted vegetables recipe takes the classic chicken skewer to the next level by pairing it with perfectly roasted seasonal vegetables. The result is a complete, balanced meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend barbecues, or entertaining guests. The marinade not only flavors the chicken but also helps keep it juicy and tender during grilling.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍽️ Complete Meal: Combines protein-packed chicken with healthy roasted vegetables in one dish
- ⏱️ Quick Preparation: Ready in under 45 minutes with minimal hands-on time
- ✨ Restaurant-Quality Flavor: Sophisticated lemon-rosemary marinade that tastes gourmet
- 👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly: Mild yet flavorful enough to please both kids and adults
Lemon Rosemary Chicken Skewers
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 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 1/2-inch rounds
- 8-10 wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden ones for 30 minutes)
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, chopped rosemary, minced garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the marinade for your grilled lemon rosemary chicken skewers with roasted vegetables recipe.
- Add the cubed chicken to the marinade, ensuring all pieces are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor).
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C). If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- While the chicken marinates, prepare the vegetables. Toss bell peppers, red onion, and zucchini with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet for roasting.
- Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between pieces for even cooking. Alternate with vegetables if desired for colorful presentation.
- Place vegetable baking sheet in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) and roast for 20-25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Grill chicken skewers for 6-8 minutes per side, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and chicken is golden brown with grill marks.
- Remove skewers from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Serve immediately with roasted vegetables, garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs and lemon wedges.
💡 CHEF’S TIP: For even more flavor, add a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade. This creates a beautiful caramelization on the chicken during grilling and balances the acidity of the lemon.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Lemon Rosemary Chicken Skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator, and thread onto skewers just before grilling. The vegetables can also be pre-cut and stored in an airtight container for 1-2 days before roasting.
What can I use instead of fresh rosemary?
If you don’t have fresh rosemary, use 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Crush it between your fingers before adding to the marinade to release more flavor. You could also substitute with fresh thyme or oregano for a different but equally delicious herb profile.
Can I cook these in the oven instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. For extra browning, broil for the last 2-3 minutes. The vegetables can roast alongside the chicken on a separate rack.
Conclusion
This Lemon Rosemary Chicken Skewers recipe with roasted vegetables delivers restaurant-quality flavors with home kitchen simplicity. The bright citrus and aromatic rosemary create a perfect balance that makes this dish suitable for casual family dinners or special occasions. The grilled lemon rosemary chicken skewers with roasted vegetables recipe is versatile, healthy, and guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
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