Chicken Skewers with Lemon

This delightful dish is a refreshing take on chicken skewers, emphasizing bright and zesty flavors. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner, these skewers are both simple to prepare and full of taste. The combination of chicken with onions and lemon provides a refreshing burst of citrus that complements the savory qualities of the meat. It's a minimalistic recipe that brings out the best in each ingredient without overwhelming the palate. A wonderful choice for those seeking a light yet satisfying meal. These skewers are not only a delight to the taste buds but also offer a healthy option. The marinade process is quick, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Pair these skewers with a fresh salad or a light couscous dish for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 kg chicken pieces
0.3 kg onions

Marinade:

3 lemons
1 tsp salt
Ground black pepper to taste

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Begin by cutting the chicken into your preferred chunk sizes for skewers. Whether you prefer larger or smaller pieces, make sure they are uniform to ensure even cooking.
Chop the Onions: Peel the onions and cut them in half. Slice these halves into semi-circles, aiming for thin pieces to maximize flavor extraction. The onions' juices will enhance the marination.
Juice the Lemons: Thoroughly wash the lemons before halving them. Squeeze the juice from each half into a bowl, using a strainer to prevent seeds from slipping through.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces, sliced onions, lemon juice, salt, and a generous amount of ground black pepper.
Mix Thoroughly: Use your hands or a spoon to mix the ingredients, ensuring each piece of chicken is coated well with the marinade. This allows the citrus and onion flavors to penetrate the meat effectively.
Marinate: Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes. While longer marination can enhance flavor, you will notice a significant difference even after this short time.
Prepare Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 10 minutes to prevent burning. Then thread the chicken pieces and onions alternately onto the skewers.
Preheat the Grill: While the chicken marinates, heat your grill to medium-high heat. You want the grill hot enough to sear the meat without burning it.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers onto the grill. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, ensuring the meat is cooked through but still juicy.
Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), ensuring it's perfectly cooked.
Serve Hot: Once done, remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juiciness.

Tips

Marinate in Advance: For a deeper flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the refrigerator.
Add Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be added to the marinade for an extra layer of flavor.
Alternative Cooking Methods: If you lack a grill, these skewers can also be cooked under a broiler or in an oven at 200°C (392°F).

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving
Protein: 30g
Fats: 10g
Carbs: 5g

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or mushroom chunks for a vegetarian alternative.
Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicier kick.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh green salad or a chilled cucumber yogurt sauce for contrast.
Garnishing: Top with freshly chopped dill or parsley for added freshness before serving.

Best Places

The Skewer House - Renowned for its creative twists on traditional skewers, using both classic and novel ingredients. Location: 123 Grill Lane, New York, USA.
Flavorful Sticks - A must-visit for skewer enthusiasts, offering globally inspired skewers with a focus on Asian flavors. Location: 456 Taste Avenue, Tokyo, Japan.
Charred and Juicy - Known for their perfectly marinated and grilled skewers in a cozy atmosphere. Location: 789 Fiery Street, Sydney, Australia.
Sizzle and Smoke - Offers a fantastic selection of skewers paired with homemade sauces and dips. Location: 321 BBQ Boulevard, Cape Town, South Africa.
Grill Master’s Haven - A paradise for grilled meat lovers, famed for its signature lemon chicken skewer. Location: 654 BBQ Road, Buenos Aires, Argentina.