These Easy Oven Chicken Skewers are perfect for a quick meal! Just marinate chicken pieces and pop them in the oven for a tasty treat that everyone will love.
You can mix and match veggies for extra crunch! I often sneak in some bell peppers and onions. It’s like a mini party on a stick! 🎉
What I love about this recipe is how simple it is. Just slide everything onto skewers, bake, and you’re ready to feast. Great for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless chicken thighs for juiciness, but breasts work too! If you’re looking for a leaner option, stick with breasts, but they may be a bit dryer.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick to the chicken. You can substitute it with canola oil or avocado oil if you prefer. Every type gives a unique taste!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best here for a strong flavor. In a pinch, garlic powder works as a substitute—just use about 1/2 teaspoon instead of fresh.
Yogurt: Optional for tenderness. You can replace it with sour cream or buttermilk if that’s what you have on hand. It’s not a must but gives an extra tender touch!
Spices: Customize the spice mix! If you like it spicier, bump up the chili powder or cayenne. For a milder flavor, cut the spices in half.
How Do You Get Chicken Skewers Extra Juicy?
Getting juicy chicken skewers depends on marinating and cooking correctly. Here’s how to ensure your chicken is tender and bursting with flavor:
- Make sure to marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for juicy results, aim for 2 hours or overnight, if possible.
- Keep the chicken pieces firm but not packed too tightly on the skewers. This helps them cook evenly.
- Don’t skip the turning! Rotating the skewers halfway helps prevent drying and gives you that nice, golden char.
- Use a wire rack in your baking tray. This allows air to circulate around the skewers, helping them cook evenly while making cleanup easy!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken skewers every time!
Easy Oven Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skewers:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp plain yogurt (optional, for tenderness)
For the Spices:
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp chili powder or cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes of cooking time. If you can, marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) will enhance the flavor, so keep that in mind!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, add the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, and yogurt (if you’re using it). Then, sprinkle in the turmeric, cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until it becomes a smooth marinade. This is where the magic happens; the flavors will really come together!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Now, toss the 1-inch chicken pieces into the marinade. Use your hands or a spoon to make sure each piece is evenly coated in that delicious mixture. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it into the fridge. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, go for 2 hours or even overnight—your chicken will thank you!
3. Prep for Baking:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil for easier cleanup, and place a wire rack on top of the tray to allow proper airflow around the skewers for even cooking.
4. Assemble the Skewers:
Take the marinated chicken from the fridge and start threading the pieces onto your wooden or metal skewers. Don’t pack them too tightly; leave a little space between pieces so they can cook evenly. You want the heat to circulate around the chicken!
5. Bake the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the wire rack in your baking tray and slide them into the oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes, turning the skewers halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a beautiful golden brown char around the edges.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the skewers from the oven and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with some extra chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve these tasty skewers hot alongside your favorite sides like rice, a fresh salad, or some warm naan bread. Enjoy your delicious oven chicken skewers!
FAQ for Easy Oven Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts! Just keep in mind that they may turn out a bit drier than thighs if not cooked carefully. Keep an eye on them, as breasts typically need less cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Yogurt?
If you don’t have yogurt, you can substitute it with sour cream or buttermilk for tenderness. If you prefer to skip it entirely, just use an extra tablespoon of olive oil to help with moisture.
Can I Make These Skewers in Advance?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just thread the marinated chicken onto skewers right before you’re ready to cook. This will save you time on busy days!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the skewers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, or microwave for a quick option!
