Description

Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful grilled dish featuring juicy chicken pieces marinated in fresh cilantro, zesty lime juice and zest, garlic, and warm spices. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or outdoor gatherings, these skewers are easy to make, healthy, and bursting with fresh, bright flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Skewers

1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Wooden or metal skewers (soak wooden skewers in water for 20-30 minutes)

Marinade

1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Juice and zest of 2 limes
3 garlic cloves, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine freshly chopped cilantro, lime juice and zest, minced garlic, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until well combined to create a flavorful marinade that will infuse the chicken.
Cut and Marinate the Chicken: Cut boneless chicken thighs or breasts into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. Toss the chicken in the marinade, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for extra flavor.
Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20-30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a little space between pieces to allow heat to circulate evenly.
Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side, turning only once or twice, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the edges.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps lock in the juices, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful. Serve hot and garnish as desired with fresh cilantro sprigs and lime wedges.

Notes

Marinate for at least 30 minutes to let the lime and cilantro fully permeate the chicken.
Do not overcrowd the skewers; leave space between pieces to cook evenly and develop a good sear.
Chicken thighs are preferred for juiciness and tenderness when grilled.
Flip the skewers carefully on high heat to avoid burning and ensure even cooking.
Let the skewers rest for a few minutes after grilling to seal in the juices.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: American / Mexican Fusion

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3 skewers)
Calories: 250
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 3g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers, grilled chicken skewers, cilantro lime recipe, quick chicken dinner, healthy grilled chicken