Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers Recipe

Introduction

Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers are a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for grilling season. Marinated in a zesty blend of lime, cilantro, and spices, these skewers turn out juicy and aromatic every time. They make a great option for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
• 4 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 4 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 (2-inch) piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, soy sauce, brown sugar, and cumin until well combined. Stir in the cilantro and season the dressing with salt and pepper. Set aside half of this dressing for serving later.
2. Step 2: Add the chicken pieces, grated ginger, and garlic to the remaining dressing in the bowl. Toss everything to coat the chicken evenly. Cover and let marinate at room temperature for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
3. Step 3: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
4. Step 4: Preheat a grill to medium-high heat, about 5 minutes, or heat a grill pan over medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces carefully onto the skewers and season them with salt and pepper. Discard any remaining marinade.
5. Step 5: Grill the chicken skewers, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part should read 165°F (74°C). This usually takes about 5 minutes per side.
6. Step 6: Transfer the skewers to a serving plate. Spoon some of the reserved dressing over the top. Serve the skewers with the remaining dressing and lime wedges on the side for extra zest.

Tips & Variations

• For extra smoky flavor, try grilling over charcoal instead of gas.
• Substitute chicken thighs for a juicier, more flavorful result.
• Add diced bell peppers and red onions to the skewers for a colorful vegetable addition.
• If you prefer spice, include a pinch of cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeño in the marinade.

Storage

Store leftover cooked chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through, taking care not to overcook. The marinade dressing should be kept separate and used fresh for best flavor.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just add the chicken and marinate before grilling.

Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling?

Absolutely! Bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, until cooked through.

Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers Recipe

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These Cilantro-Lime Chicken Skewers are a flavorful and vibrant grilled dish, featuring tender chicken marinated in a zesty blend of lime juice, cilantro, ginger, and garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue, they bring a refreshing and aromatic twist to classic grilled chicken.

• Author: Clara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes (including marinating time)
• Yield: 4 servings (about 4 skewers) 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: Mexican
• Diet: Low Fat

Ingredients

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Marinade and Dressing

• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving
• 4 teaspoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
• 2 teaspoons packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 (2-inch) piece ginger, peeled and finely grated
• 3 cloves garlic, finely grated

Chicken

• 4 (8-ounce) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, fresh lime juice, reduced-sodium soy sauce, light brown sugar, and ground cumin until well combined. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Set aside half of this dressing for serving later.
2. Marinate the chicken: Add the cut chicken pieces, finely grated ginger, and garlic to the remaining dressing in the bowl. Toss thoroughly to coat all the chicken evenly. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 4 hours if refrigerated.
3. Prepare the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. This step should be done ahead of time while the chicken marinates.
4. Preheat the grill: Prepare your grill for medium-high heat and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Alternatively, heat a grill pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop if a grill is unavailable.
5. Assemble the skewers: Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. Season them lightly with salt and pepper. Discard any remaining marinade left in the bowl to ensure safety during cooking.
6. Grill the chicken skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the thickest piece reaches 165°F. This will take about 5 minutes per side.
7. Serve: Transfer the cooked skewers to a serving plate. Spoon some of the reserved cilantro-lime dressing over the top for extra flavor. Serve with remaining dressing and fresh lime wedges on the side for squeezing.

Notes

• If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the skewers under a broiler or on a grill pan indoors.
• To keep chicken juicy, avoid overcooking; use a thermometer to check for doneness.
• For added flavor, soak wooden skewers in citrus juice instead of water for a subtle zing.
• This marinade can also be used for shrimp or pork skewers for a similar taste.

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, chicken skewers, grilled chicken, lime marinade, summer barbecue, easy chicken recipe