Grilled chicken skewers are a fantastic option when you want a healthy, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal. Not only are these skewers bursting with flavor, but they’re also perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet. Marinated to perfection and grilled until golden, these chicken bites are succulent and juicy with a smoky, charred finish.
In this recipe, we’re going to take the classic grilled chicken skewer and give it a delicious, keto-friendly twist. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a quick and tasty dinner, these Grilled Chicken Skewers are sure to become a go-to recipe in your rotation.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Skewers:
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning)
Optional for Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
- Low-carb yogurt dip or tzatziki
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This simple marinade packs a punch of flavor without any added sugars or carbs.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breast to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) to allow the flavors to soak in.
- Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If you’re using wooden skewers, be sure to soak them in water for 30 minutes before threading the chicken on to avoid burning.
- Thread the Chicken: Carefully thread the marinated chicken cubes onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char on the outside. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled, remove the skewers from the heat and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve with a side of low-carb yogurt dip or tzatziki for extra flavor.
Chef’s Notes & Cooking Tips
- Marinating Time: While 30 minutes is sufficient to flavor the chicken, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours for even more intense flavor. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidity from the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
- Grill Alternatives: If you don’t have access to a grill, a grill pan or even your oven’s broiler works well for cooking these skewers. Just be sure to keep an eye on the skewers to prevent overcooking.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
This recipe is naturally keto-friendly and low-carb, but here are a few extra tips to ensure it fits perfectly within your dietary goals:
- Carb Count: The chicken and spices used in this recipe contain minimal to zero carbs, making it a perfect fit for a keto diet. Pair it with low-carb sides like a fresh salad or cauliflower rice to keep the meal light and satisfying.
- Healthy Fats: Drizzle the skewers with a bit of extra olive oil or serve with a creamy, low-carb sauce like a garlic butter or avocado dressing for added fats, which is essential for maintaining ketosis.
Recipe Variations
- Mediterranean Twist: Swap the smoked paprika for oregano and thyme, and serve the chicken with a side of feta cheese and olives for a Mediterranean flair.
- Herb-Marinated Chicken: Add fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the marinade for an herby flavor.
- Lemon-Garlic Chicken Skewers: Increase the lemon juice and add minced garlic to the marinade for a zesty, garlicky version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are more tender and juicy than breasts and work perfectly for this recipe. Just keep in mind that they may take a little longer to cook through.
2. How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?
Marinating the chicken helps keep it moist, and using a quick grilling method prevents it from drying out. Ensure you’re not overcooking the chicken—check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.
3. Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance. Assemble the skewers just before grilling, or refrigerate assembled skewers for up to a few hours before cooking.
4. Can I cook these in the oven?
Yes! You can broil the chicken skewers on a baking sheet in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a slight char.
5. What should I serve with these chicken skewers?
These skewers pair well with various low-carb side dishes, including grilled vegetables, a fresh cucumber salad, or roasted cauliflower.
Grilled chicken skewers are the perfect combination of convenience, taste, and health-conscious eating. This keto-friendly and low-carb recipe is a fantastic option for anyone looking to keep their meals delicious while staying on track with their diet. With minimal ingredients, easy prep, and versatile flavor options, these Juicy Grilled Chicken Skewers are sure to become a regular in your meal rotation. Plus, with all the FAQs and variations covered, you’ll never run out of ways to customize this recipe to your liking. Happy grilling
