Oh boy, I am excited to share one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes with you—Chicken Skewers in the Oven! There’s just something so incredibly satisfying about the sweet, savory smell of chicken roasting away in the oven, and these skewers are no exception. I love how simple yet delicious they are, perfect for lazy afternoons or festive gatherings alike. Plus, they always remind me of those warm summer barbecues with friends and family, even if we’re stuck indoors!
Today, I decided to make these skewers for dinner, and honestly? I couldn’t help but enjoy every bite. They’re juicy, flavorful, and have just the right amount of spices to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Let’s dig into the beauty of these skewers together!
What’s in Chicken Skewers in the Oven?
Chicken Breast: The star of our show! I like to use about 1.5 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes for juicy bites. Trust me; it cooks beautifully.
Olive Oil: We need a bit of fat to keep our chicken moist and flavorful. I love using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor, but any kind of olive oil will do in a pinch!
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the chicken. You can use bottled juice if you’re in a hurry, but fresh is always better!
Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These two will elevate your skewers with savory depth. They add flavor without the hassle of chopping!
Paprika: This mild spice adds a lovely earthy flavor and a vibrant color to your skewers. It’s just too pretty to skip!
Ground Cumin: Cumin gives a warm, earthy flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. I’m a big fan of this spice!
Dried Oregano: A cornerstone of Mediterranean flavors! It adds a nice herbal note to every bite.
Chili Powder: Optional for those who love a little heat! Spice level up to you—feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder dish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for flavor enhancement. Don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Parsley: A vibrant garnish that not only makes it look pretty but also adds a fresh taste!
Wooden Skewers: Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning in the oven.
Is Chicken Skewers in the Oven Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish packs a punch of nutrition while being light and healthy.
Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein that helps build muscles and keep you feeling full longer. Always a plus when you’re watching your calories!
Olive Oil: It’s filled with healthy fats, which are great for heart health and can help lower cholesterol levels. Plus, the Mediterranean diet loves this ingredient!
Lemon Juice: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon juice can boost your immune system and promote healthy skin.
Of course, moderation is key. If you opt for more sauces or sides, just keep an eye on those added calories. But really, this recipe is all about balance, and it’s deliciously wholesome!
Ingredients
– 1.5 pounds chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 2 teaspoons onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– 4-6 wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
This recipe will serve about 4 hungry people—perfect for a cozy dinner night in!
How to Make Chicken Skewers in the Oven?
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easier cleanup. You’re going to thank your future self for this!
2. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create a marinade that will have your kitchen smelling divine.
3. Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl and toss until all pieces are well coated with the marinade. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or if you have the time, up to 2 hours for the best flavor.
4. Take those lovely marinated chicken pieces and thread them onto the soaked wooden skewers, packing them closely but not too tight. We want them to cook evenly!
5. Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through at an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Pro tip: Turn the skewers halfway through cooking for even browning; it makes a difference!
6. Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving—and honestly, it makes them look fancy!
7. Serve the chicken skewers hot, with your choice of dipping sauces or sides like rice, salad, or even warm pita. The options are endless!
Delicious Variations and Tips
– You can mix things up with your favorite veggies. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and onions all work fabulously on the skewers and add color!
– If you want a flavor boost, try adding different spices or marinades. Teriyaki or curry marinades could shake things up!
– Leftover chicken skewers? Slice them up and toss them on a salad or in a wrap for a quick lunch.
So there you have it—delicious, oven-baked Chicken Skewers that are so easy to make! I hope you give this recipe a whirl and enjoy the delightful flavors as much as I do. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and results with me. Happy cooking!
