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Flavorful Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers

cilantro lime grilled chicken skewers - featured image

Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a bright and fresh cilantro lime blend, perfect for quick and easy grilling with a burst of tangy, herbal flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 cup packed fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 4 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 2 medium limes)
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into 1.5-inch cubes for even cooking.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, minced garlic, olive oil, honey, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until well blended.
  3. Add chicken cubes to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours.
  4. Soak bamboo skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  5. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and thread pieces onto soaked skewers, leaving space between pieces.
  6. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  7. Grill skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once and brushing occasionally with reserved marinade. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F and juices run clear.
  8. Let skewers rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 30 minutes to 2 hours; avoid over-marinating to prevent mushy texture. Soak skewers to prevent burning. Turn skewers only once or twice for best results. Reserved marinade can be brushed on during grilling to keep chicken moist. Can substitute honey with agave syrup for vegan option and chicken with tofu or halloumi for vegetarian version.

Nutrition

Keywords: cilantro lime chicken, grilled chicken skewers, BBQ chicken, easy chicken recipe, summer grilling, quick chicken marinade