These easy oven chicken skewers are quick to make and bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken is paired with colorful veggies on a stick, making for a fun and tasty meal.
Who knew dinner could be this simple? I love mixing it up with different veggies and dipping sauces. Plus, they’re a hit at gatherings—just watch them disappear! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless thighs give the best flavor and juiciness. Feel free to use breasts if you prefer! Also, chicken tenders work well and cook quickly.
Yogurt: Plain yogurt makes the chicken tender and adds creaminess. You can substitute Greek yogurt for a thicker texture or use dairy-free yogurt if needed.
Spices: The spices create a lovely flavor profile. For a kick, keep the chili powder! You can adjust the spices to your taste or even use a pre-made spice blend for convenience.
Fresh Herbs: I like cilantro for its fresh flavor, but parsley is a great alternative. If you want a different twist, try fresh basil or mint!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Skewers Are Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating the chicken is key! It allows the flavors to penetrate, making each bite delicious. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix all marinade ingredients together thoroughly.
- Toss in the chicken and ensure each piece is well coated.
- Keep it covered in the fridge for a minimum of 30 minutes, but 2-4 hours is ideal for max flavor.
Also, preheating your oven properly ensures even cooking. Using a wire rack helps air circulate around the skewers, leading to better browning. Just remember to watch them as cooking times can vary with thickness!
Easy Oven Chicken Skewers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 3 tablespoons plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, finely chopped
- Wooden or metal skewers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and marination, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for baking. Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer (up to 4 hours) enhances the flavor, making it even more delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the plain yogurt, olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, ground turmeric, ground cumin, smoked paprika, ground coriander, chili powder (if you want a little spice), and salt and pepper. Whisk until everything is well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken chunks to your marinade. Use a spoon or your hands to toss everything together until the chicken is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for a richer taste.
3. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking tray with aluminum foil to make cleanup easier, and set a wire rack on top of it to allow the chicken skewers to cook evenly.
4. Thread the Chicken:
Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes to prevent burning. Then, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a bit of space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
5. Bake the Skewers:
Place the skewers on the wire rack and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn them halfway through cooking to get a nice even golden brown on all sides. The chicken should be fully cooked and lightly charred at the edges.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, carefully remove the skewers from the oven. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve your delicious chicken skewers hot, accompanied by sides like rice, salad, or warm flatbread.
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy oven-baked chicken skewers!
FAQ About Easy Oven Chicken Skewers
Can I Use Different Vegetables on the Skewers?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion all make great additions. Just make sure to cut the veggies into similar sizes to ensure they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
What Can I Substitute for Yogurt in This Recipe?
If you prefer not to use yogurt, try buttermilk or a dairy-free yogurt alternative. You can also use mayonnaise for a richer flavor, but it will change the taste slightly.
How Do I Store Leftover Skewers?
Store any leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through. They can also be enjoyed cold as a protein-packed snack!
Can I Grill These Skewers Instead of Baking Them?
Yes! Grilling adds a fantastic smoky flavor. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and cook the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
