Chicken Skewers in the Oven are a simple yet flavorful dish that delivers juicy, tender chicken with a smoky char, all made right in your own kitchen. Marinated in a blend of spices, herbs, and a little olive oil, the chicken pieces are skewered and baked to perfection. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue (even if you’re indoors!).
I first made these chicken skewers when I was looking for a quick and easy meal that still packed plenty of flavor, and they were a hit! The marinade helped infuse the chicken with aromatic herbs and spices, and baking the skewers made the chicken crispy on the edges while keeping it juicy in the center. They were so simple to make, yet full of flavor.
What’s great about Chicken Skewers in the Oven is how versatile they are. You can swap out the marinade ingredients to create different flavor profiles—try adding a touch of honey for sweetness or lemon zest for a citrusy kick. They can be served with rice, salad, or roasted vegetables, or even on their own as a protein-packed snack. These skewers are an easy, flavorful go-to for any occasion!
Perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners
- Family gatherings
- BBQs
- Meal prep
- Chicken lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Chicken Skewers in the Oven will become your go-to recipe:
- Perfectly Juicy Chicken: The marinade ensures the chicken stays moist and tender.
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and is ready in just under an hour.
- Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples, it’s a quick and flavorful meal.
- Versatile Flavors: Customize the seasoning to suit your taste, from spicy to mild.
- Oven-Baked Convenience: No need for a grill; these skewers cook perfectly in the oven.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a large batch and enjoy leftovers for days.
- Healthy Option: Lean chicken breast provides a good source of protein with low fat.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleasing dish that both adults and kids will love.
- Perfect for Sides: Serve with rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Quick Cooking Time: Ready to eat in 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy days.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 5g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Skewers:
- Wooden or metal skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if wooden)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Ingredient Highlights
- Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps keep the chicken moist during baking.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor of the chicken and tenderizes the meat.
- Garlic Powder and Paprika: Provide a savory, slightly smoky flavor.
- Cumin and Oregano: Bring warmth and depth to the marinade.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Marinade:
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Prepare the Skewers:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, ensuring the pieces are evenly spaced.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring the chicken is not touching the pan.
Cook the Skewers:
- Bake the Chicken: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Broil (Optional): For a crispier, more charred exterior, broil the skewers on high for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley (optional), and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Chicken Skewers in the Oven:
- With Tzatziki Sauce: Serve alongside creamy tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
- On a Salad: Slice the skewers and serve on a bed of fresh greens for a healthy lunch.
- With Pita Bread: Pair with warm pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- In a Wrap: Place the skewers in a wrap with veggies and hummus for a portable meal.
- With Couscous or Rice: Serve over couscous or rice for a hearty dinner.
- With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers for a balanced meal.
- With Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a comforting dinner.
- As Appetizers: Serve as skewers at your next party or gathering with dipping sauces on the side.
- With Grilled Veggies: Pair with grilled vegetables for a satisfying, well-rounded dish.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with extra lemon wedges for a zesty kick.
Additional Tips
- Marinate Longer for Extra Flavor: For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours.
- Use Metal Skewers: Metal skewers hold heat better and help cook the chicken more evenly.
- Watch the Chicken Closely: Keep an eye on the chicken while baking to prevent overcooking.
- Cut Uniform Pieces: Ensure the chicken cubes are roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Serve Hot: Chicken skewers are best served immediately after baking to maintain their juiciness.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Chicken Skewers: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken Skewers: Swap the spices for BBQ sauce and bake as directed.
- Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers: Add fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary to the marinade for a fragrant twist.
- Honey Mustard Skewers: Marinate the chicken in honey mustard dressing for a tangy-sweet flavor.
- Vegetarian Skewers: Replace the chicken with tofu, mushrooms, and veggies for a plant-based version.
- Curry Chicken Skewers: Use curry powder and coconut milk in the marinade for an Indian-inspired dish.
- Greek Chicken Skewers: Add oregano, garlic, and feta cheese to the marinade for a Greek variation.
- Sweet and Sour Skewers: Marinate with a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, and honey for a sweet and savory flavor.
- Mango Chicken Skewers: Add mango chunks and a splash of lime juice for a tropical twist.
Special Equipment
- Skewers: Wooden or metal skewers for threading the chicken.
- Baking Sheet: For catching drips and easy cleanup.
- Parchment Paper or Foil: To line the baking sheet for less mess.
- Meat Thermometer: To check the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Basting Brush: Optional for brushing extra marinade or oil on the chicken before baking.
FAQ Section
- Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs will work as well. They’re slightly more tender and juicy. - Can I make these skewers on the grill?
Yes, these skewers can be grilled instead of baked. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally. - How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. - Can I freeze the chicken skewers?
Yes, freeze the cooked skewers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in the oven when ready to eat. - How can I make these skewers gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you avoid using marinades with soy sauce that contain gluten. - What dipping sauces pair well with these skewers?
Tzatziki, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo all make great dips. - Can I use pre-marinated chicken?
Yes, you can use store-bought marinated chicken for quicker prep. - How do I prevent the chicken from sticking to the skewers?
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water beforehand to prevent burning and sticking. - How do I know if the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). - Can I add vegetables to the skewers?
Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or zucchini between the chicken pieces for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Chicken Skewers in the Oven are an easy, flavorful, and versatile meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a casual gathering. The chicken is marinated in a delicious mix of spices, herbs, and seasonings to infuse it with tons of flavor, then threaded onto skewers and baked in the oven until golden and perfectly cooked. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a slightly crispy exterior, making each bite deliciously satisfying.
What makes these chicken skewers so special is how simple yet flavorful they are. You can customize the marinade to your liking—whether you prefer a tangy lemon-garlic mix, a spicy jerk seasoning, or a smoky barbecue sauce. These skewers are great on their own, served with a side of rice, or added to salads or wraps. Plus, baking them in the oven makes them easy to prepare without the need for a grill.
I can’t wait to see how your Chicken Skewers in the Oven turn out! Snap a photo and share it on Instagram, tagging me so I can admire your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made them your own—I’d love to hear all about your personal twist on this easy dish!