When it comes to grilling or cooking outdoors, few things are as versatile and crowd-pleasing as chicken skewers. With a little creativity and some tasty marinades, you can take this classic dish from basic to brilliant. In fact, we’ve rounded up 20 mouthwatering chicken skewer recipes that everyone will love. From tangy lemon and herb to spicy garlic and sweet teriyaki, each recipe is designed to showcase the best of chicken’s flavor profile.
In this article, we’ll be diving into a diverse range of flavors and cuisines, from international-inspired dishes like Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers and Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers to more classic options like Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers and BBQ Chicken Skewers. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next backyard barbecue, these 20 flavorful chicken skewer recipes have got you covered.
Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers
Brighten up your mealtime with these tangy and flavorful chicken skewers, infused with the zesty essence of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summertime barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill or bake skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Garlic Chicken Skewers
Spicy Garlic Chicken Skewers Recipe
These mouth-watering skewers are perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or appetizer. Succulent chicken, marinated in a spicy garlic mixture, grilled to perfection and served with a side of tangy tzatziki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, ginger, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce (optional).
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
This sweet and savory recipe is a perfect combination of Asian-inspired flavors and grilling fun! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
– Optional: chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush vegetable oil on both sides of the skewers.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve warm with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, this recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the tanginess of mustard for a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and garlic powder.
3. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the honey-mustard mixture evenly over the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Bring the flavors of the Mediterranean to your backyard with these easy-to-make and deliciously flavorful chicken skewers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated.
4. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Place the skewers on the grill or grill pan and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
BBQ Chicken Skewers
Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a weeknight dinner, these BBQ chicken skewers are easy to make and packed with flavor. Marinate chicken breast in a sweet and tangy mixture of BBQ sauce and spices, then grill to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade; toss to coat.
4. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Chicken Skewers
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with these mouthwatering peanut chicken skewers. Succulent chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a rich peanut sauce come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
– 1/4 cup onion, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons peanut butter
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, onion, and snow peas onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the chicken and vegetables.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot with additional peanut sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pineapple Chicken Skewers
These bite-sized skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and crunchy red bell peppers is sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken, pineapple, and bell pepper onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
4. Brush the mixture evenly onto the skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Curry Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these aromatic curry chicken skewers, perfect for a summer BBQ or potluck. Succulent chicken and colorful vegetables come together in harmony, smothered in a rich and creamy curry sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 large onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for grilling
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together yogurt, curry powder, honey, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper (if using). Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread chicken, onion, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush grill with cooking spray or oil. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
5. Serve warm with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chili Lime Chicken Skewers
Get ready for a flavorful twist on traditional chicken skewers with the bold combination of chili and lime. These bite-sized morsels are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a delicious addition to your next backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chili flakes, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade and mix until coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
Elevate your chicken game with these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Brush the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the chicken pieces on the skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, or until cooked through, turning occasionally.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Skewers
Sweet and Sour Chicken Skewers Recipe
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these tender and juicy chicken skewers smothered in a sweet and tangy sauce! This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Brush the sweet and sour sauce evenly over both sides of the chicken.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Cajun Chicken Skewers
Add a bold twist to your grilling game with these Cajun chicken skewers, packed with spicy flavor and a hint of smokiness. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together chicken, Cajun seasoning, olive oil, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper.
3. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as corn on the cob or jambalaya rice.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Buffalo Chicken Skewers
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized Buffalo chicken skewers, perfect for game days or parties. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these spicy morsels are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup ranch dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot sauce and ranch dressing.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss until coated; set aside for 15 minutes.
4. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Serve hot with shredded cheddar cheese on top (if using).
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Chicken Skewers
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with these flavorful and aromatic chicken skewers infused with the bold spices of Jamaica!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together jerk seasoning, olive oil, and pineapple juice. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours.
3. Thread 4-5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Rosemary Balsamic Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful skewers, perfect for a summer evening or backyard gathering. With the combination of tender chicken, fragrant rosemary, and tangy balsamic glaze, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Brush with balsamic glaze during the last minute of grilling.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tandoori Chicken Skewers
Elevate your barbecue game with these aromatic and juicy Tandoori Chicken Skewers, infused with the classic Indian spices of tandoori masala.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons tandoori masala powder
– 1 teaspoon garam masala powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for brushing
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala powder, garam masala powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as basmati rice and naan bread.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these smoky paprika chicken skewers, bursting with flavor and color. A perfect blend of spicy and savory, these bite-sized morsels will be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup red bell pepper, sliced into strips
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken, red bell pepper strips, and any other desired vegetables onto skewers.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Ginger Soy Chicken Skewers
A flavorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, these Ginger Soy Chicken Skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch. The combination of ginger, soy sauce, and honey creates a sweet and savory glaze that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill or broil for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Pesto Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these easy-to-make Pesto Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. With the combination of juicy chicken, savory pesto, and tender vegetables, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 10 bamboo skewers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pesto sauce and chicken pieces until coated.
3. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through, turning occasionally.
6. Serve hot, topped with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to impress your friends and family with these 20 mouth-watering chicken skewer recipes! From classic combinations like Lemon Herb and Honey Mustard, to bold flavors like Spicy Garlic and Jamaican Jerk, there’s something for everyone. Try Teriyaki Chicken Skewers with a sweet and savory glaze or Mediterranean Chicken Skewers with feta cheese and olives. If you’re in the mood for something spicy, BBQ Chicken Skewers or Buffalo Chicken Skewers are sure to satisfy. Whatever your taste buds desire, these flavorful chicken skewer recipes will surely become a new favorite!
