Juicy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Skewers Recipe

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Is there anything better than the smell of grilled chicken on a warm day? These juicy grilled lemon herb chicken skewers are one of my go-to recipes when I want something simple, fresh, and full of flavor. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a Mother’s Day BBQ or just need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe fits the moment.

The lemony marinade adds a bright, zesty kick, while dried herbs and garlic give each bite that savory, home-cooked taste. It’s easy to prep ahead, perfect for meal planning, and works just as well on a grill pan as it does on an outdoor grill.

If you’ve been looking for a healthy grilled chicken recipe that’s both low-carb and family-friendly, you’re in the right place. Let’s get into what makes this dish such a crowd-pleaser.

What You’ll Need

Before we start grilling, let’s make sure you have everything prepped and ready. These grilled lemon herb chicken skewers come together quickly, so having your ingredients organized ahead of time makes the process smooth and stress-free.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this juicy, flavor-packed dish to life:

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized chunks for even cooking
2 tbsp olive oil – helps lock in moisture and flavor
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice – adds a bright, citrusy punch
1 tsp lemon zest – gives a more intense lemon flavor
2 garlic cloves, minced – for that savory depth
1 tsp dried oregano and 1 tsp dried thyme – classic herbs that pair beautifully with lemon
½ tsp salt and ¼ tsp black pepper – to season everything just right
Fresh parsley (optional) – a light garnish for color and freshness
Lemon wedges (optional) – for serving or squeezing on top before eating
Skewers – wooden or metal both work; just soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning

Tools You’ll Want on Hand

Mixing bowls – one for marinating, one for tossing ingredients if needed
Whisk or fork – to blend the marinade evenly
Tongs – for easy flipping on the grill
Grill pan or gas grill – both work; just adjust heat and cook time as needed
Meat thermometer – optional but helpful to check for doneness (165°F is the safe internal temp for chicken)

Whether you’re planning a relaxed Mother’s Day lunch or just want an easy weeknight dinner that’s healthy and satisfying, these ingredients are easy to find and come together in minutes. Let’s move on to how to make it all happen.

Detailed Cooking Instructions

Grilled chicken skewers with colorful roasted vegetables and yogurt dip on a white plate

Making these grilled lemon herb chicken skewers is simpler than you might think. With just a few steps and some time to marinate, you’ll have juicy, flavorful skewers ready for the grill. Let’s walk through it together.

1. Prep the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken pieces dry with a paper towel. This helps the marinade stick better.
Cut the chicken into even chunks, about 1.5 inches each. This size helps the meat cook evenly and stay juicy on the grill.

2. Mix the Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the following:

Olive oil
Fresh lemon juice
Lemon zest
Minced garlic
Dried oregano
Dried thyme
Salt and pepper

This lemon herb marinade brings out the best in grilled chicken—bright, savory, and aromatic without being overpowering.

3. Marinate

Place the chicken in a large bowl or a resealable plastic bag.
Pour the marinade over the chicken and toss to coat every piece.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but 2–4 hours will give you more flavor.

Tip: If you’re prepping ahead for a Mother’s Day BBQ or weeknight dinner, you can marinate the chicken in the morning and grill later that evening.

4. Get the Grill Ready

If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to keep them from burning.
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

5. Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto your skewers, leaving a little space between each chunk. This helps the heat circulate and ensures even cooking.

6. Grill

Place the skewers on the hot grill.
Cook for 5–7 minutes per side, turning once, until the chicken is nicely browned and has a slight char.
Use a meat thermometer if you have one—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

7. Rest and Serve

Let the skewers rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. This keeps the juices locked in.
Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if you like. They’re not required, but they add a fresh, finishing touch.

This method works beautifully for backyard cookouts, grill pans on the stove, or even as part of your Mother’s Day lunch ideas. It’s fast, flavorful, and crowd-friendly—just the way grilled chicken should be.

Tips & Tricks

These simple tips can make a big difference when grilling lemon herb chicken skewers, whether you’re cooking for a quick dinner or prepping for a special occasion like Mother’s Day or a summer BBQ.

Marinating Matters

Don’t rush the marinade. While 30 minutes works in a pinch, letting the chicken sit for 2 to 4 hours helps it soak up all the lemon and herb flavors.
Use a zip-top bag for marinating—it’s mess-free and allows for better coverage.

Grill Smarter

Preheat your grill or pan so you get a good sear. Starting on a cold surface can lead to sticking and uneven cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the grill. Leave space between each skewer so the heat can circulate and cook the meat evenly.

Keep It Juicy

Turn only once during grilling. Flipping too often can dry the chicken out.
Let it rest. Give your skewers 2–3 minutes after grilling so the juices settle inside the meat.

Make It Your Own

Add fresh vegetables like zucchini, red onion, or bell peppers to the skewers for color and extra nutrients.
Serving a crowd? Make a double batch and keep the first round warm in a low oven (around 200°F) until ready to serve.

Cleanup Tip

If using a grill pan, a light spray of oil before cooking helps with cleanup.
For outdoor grills, brushing the grates with oil using a paper towel and tongs can prevent sticking without flare-ups.

Planning Ahead?

You can prep the chicken and marinade the night before—just keep it covered in the fridge.
These skewers are meal-prep friendly. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and are great for salads, wraps, or grain bowls.

Use these tips to make sure your grilled chicken turns out flavorful, juicy, and ready to impress—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a Mother’s Day BBQ with the family.

Why It’s Healthy

Lemon herb grilled chicken skewers with grilled vegetables and creamy herb yogurt dip

These grilled lemon herb chicken skewers aren’t just delicious—they’re also a smart choice if you’re eating for energy, balance, or weight loss. Here’s why they check all the right boxes:

High in Lean Protein

Chicken breast is naturally low in fat and high in protein, which helps support muscle, keeps you full longer, and stabilizes energy throughout the day.
Protein-rich meals are especially helpful if you’re following a low-carb, keto, or Whole30 eating plan.

Low in Carbs, Big on Flavor

There’s no added sugar, breadcrumbs, or heavy sauces in this recipe—just clean, simple ingredients.
With just olive oil, lemon, herbs, and garlic, it’s a great fit for low-carb lifestyles like paleo and keto.

Heart-Healthy Ingredients

Olive oil provides healthy fats that support heart health and help your body absorb nutrients from other ingredients.
Garlic, oregano, and thyme aren’t just flavorful—they’re packed with antioxidants and natural compounds that support overall wellness.

Light and Satisfying

Grilling the chicken keeps the recipe light without sacrificing taste.
Paired with grilled veggies or a crisp salad, it’s a well-rounded meal that leaves you satisfied without feeling heavy.

Whether you’re cooking for a healthy Mother’s Day lunch, managing your macros, or just want to eat well without overthinking it, this recipe makes clean eating easy—and enjoyable.

Looking for more easy, low-carb ideas to round out your meal or snack smarter during the week? Here are a few reader favorites that pair well with grilled dishes or make perfect stand-alone bites:

Keto Cheese-Stuffed Olives Recipe (Easy Low-Carb Snack)
These bite-sized snacks are creamy, salty, and perfect for parties or midday cravings.
Irresistible Keto Salami Roll-Ups for Easy Snacking
A quick, high-protein snack idea that’s great for lunchboxes or appetizers.
Delicious Almond Flour Biscuits You’ll Absolutely Love
Light, fluffy, and low in carbs—perfect alongside grilled chicken or with a pat of butter.

Each of these recipes is simple, satisfying, and made with clean ingredients—just like the lemon herb chicken skewers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake these chicken skewers instead of grilling?

Yes. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the skewers on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through. You can finish them under the broiler for a charred look.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For best flavor, marinate for 2–4 hours. If you’re short on time, 30 minutes will still work, but the longer it sits, the more flavor you’ll get.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs stay extra juicy and work well with this marinade. Just adjust cooking time slightly—they may need a minute or two more on the grill.

Can I prep these skewers ahead of time?

Yes. You can marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill. Assembled skewers can also be stored (covered) for a few hours before cooking.

Do these work well for meal prep?

They’re great for meal prep. Store cooked skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat well and taste great in salads, bowls, or wraps.

Are these skewers keto-friendly?

Yes. With zero added sugar and minimal carbs, this recipe is a good fit for keto, Whole30, and low-carb diets.

What sides go well with these chicken skewers?

Try pairing them with grilled veggies, cauliflower rice, a crisp cucumber salad, or even almond flour biscuits for a light, satisfying plate. Great for a casual dinner or a Mother’s Day lunch outdoors.