These easy oven-baked chicken skewers are juicy and full of flavor! Just marinate the chicken, thread it on skewers, and bake until golden. Perfect for any meal!
I love how quick these skewers are to make, and they make dinner fun! Plus, you can use any veggies you have on hand. Who doesn’t enjoy a colorful plate? 🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal for this recipe. Thighs offer more moisture. If you prefer, turkey or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option works well too!
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and keeps the chicken moist. You could substitute with avocado oil or any light cooking oil if needed.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor. If you don’t have fresh, bottled lemon juice will do. Lime juice can also work nicely for a different twist.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds smokiness, but sweet paprika can replace it if that’s what you have. Ground coriander can be used in place of cumin for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
For juicy chicken skewers, marinating is key! Aim to marinate for at least 15 minutes, but letting it sit for an hour or more allows the spices to penetrate better. Even overnight is great if you plan ahead.
- Start by mixing your marinade as suggested.
- Always toss the chicken well in the marinade.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space for even cooking.
Also, while baking, make sure the chicken pieces are cooked through, but be careful not to overcook, as that can lead to dryness.
Finally, consider a quick broil at the end to caramelize the edges a bit for added flavor!
Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
Optional Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 15-20 minutes of baking time. If you want to marinate the chicken longer for better flavor, you can add up to an hour of marination time. Overall, it’s a quick and easy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper to make cleanup a breeze. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet for better air circulation.
2. Making the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This marinade is key to adding flavor to your chicken!
3. Marinating the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss them around until each piece is well-coated. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes. For even more flavor, let it sit in the fridge for up to an hour!
4. Assembling the Skewers:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto your skewers evenly. You can also add chunks of colorful vegetables, like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or red onions, to make your skewers even more delicious and vibrant.
5. Baking the Skewers:
Arrange the skewers on the wire rack sitting over the baking sheet (or directly on the sheet if you don’t have a rack). Bake them in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Optional Broiling:
If you like a bit of char on your chicken, switch to broil for about 2-3 minutes at the end. Just keep an eye on them, so they don’t burn!
7. Serving:
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a lovely pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your juicy oven-baked chicken skewers!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your delicious skewers with your favorite dipping sauce or sides!
FAQ for Easy Oven-Baked Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Types of Chicken?
Absolutely! You can substitute boneless, skinless chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer darker meat, which tends to be juicier. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey breast works well too!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
Can I Make These Skewers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just assemble and bake when you’re ready to eat. It’s a great meal prep option!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil, you can use avocado oil or canola oil. Any light cooking oil will work well, but avoid strong-flavored oils that might alter the dish’s flavor.
