High Protein Grilled Chicken Skewers

Name: High Protein Grilled Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Low Calorie Recipes

I absolutely love grilled chicken skewers, especially knowing they are packed with protein! This recipe gives me the perfect opportunity to enjoy a delicious, healthy meal while also being incredibly simple to prepare. With tender morsels of marinated chicken that soak up all the flavors, these skewers are perfect for a casual dinner or a backyard barbecue. The best part? They’re quick to grill and can be paired with a variety of sides. Let’s get started on these tasty, high-protein delights!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:45:04.948Z

Each time I prepare these grilled chicken skewers, I'm reminded of the summertime cookouts I cherished as a kid. The marinade is what elevates this dish – a mix of tangy lemon juice and earthy spices melds perfectly with the chicken. I highly recommend marinating the chicken for at least an hour to ensure it absorbs all those delicious flavors. My secret tip? Adding a splash of soy sauce to the marinade not only enhances the umami profile but also keeps the chicken extra juicy!

Grilling the skewers over medium-high heat gives a nice char, sealing in the moisture and adding texture. I often serve these skewers with a bright garlic yogurt sauce, which complements the seasoned chicken beautifully. Whether you’re serving them at a family gathering or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, they’re a surefire way to impress. Don’t forget to soak your wooden skewers in water beforehand to prevent burning!

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Packed with lean protein for a satisfying meal
Versatile—perfect with various sides and sauces
Quick to prepare and grill, ideal for weeknight dinners

Marination Mastery

Marinating the chicken is a critical step that significantly enhances flavor and tenderness. The olive oil not only helps in imparting a rich taste but also aids in keeping the chicken moist during grilling. Be sure to allow at least 30 minutes for marination, as this gives the flavors time to penetrate the meat. For optimal results, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator; any longer may cause the acidity of the lemon juice to break down the protein too much.

If you're short on time, you can speed up the marination process by using a resealable plastic bag. Simply add the marinade and chicken into the bag and massage it to ensure even coverage. This method also allows for better contact with the marinade, resulting in juicier chicken skewers.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Skewers

When skewering the chicken, make sure to leave a little space between each piece. This ensures even cooking and allows the heat to circulate properly, giving you beautifully charred edges. Soaked wooden skewers are recommended to prevent them from burning on the grill; soak them in water for at least 30 minutes before use. Alternatively, metal skewers can be used, as they are reusable and won't burn.

For the best grill marks and flavor, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—around 400°F (200°C). This allows the chicken to sear quickly, locking in the juices. Grill the skewers for about 12-15 minutes total, turning occasionally until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on the skewers, as grill times can vary based on the thickness of the meat and the grill type.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Skewers

1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Feel free to customize the seasoning or add vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the skewers!

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken cubes and coat them well in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Skewer the Chicken

Thread the marinated chicken onto soaked wooden skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even grilling.

Grill the Skewers

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove from the grill, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

Enjoy these skewers with a side of salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a variety of spices or herbs to the marinade, such as cumin or rosemary. Also, consider using different proteins like shrimp or beef for variety!

Serving Suggestions

These high-protein grilled chicken skewers can be paired with various sides to make a complete meal. Consider serving them with a fresh quinoa salad or a mix of grilled vegetables for added nutrition. You can also provide a yogurt-based dipping sauce, such as tzatziki, which complements the smoky flavor of the chicken. A vibrant salsa or homemade guacamole would also make delightful accompaniments.

For a heartier meal, serve the skewers over a bed of rice or wrapped in pita bread. This way, they can double as filling for a delicious sandwich, especially when paired with fresh greens and your favorite toppings.

Storage and Meal Prep

These grilled chicken skewers are perfect for meal prep! Cooked skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy them, simply reheat in the microwave or on the grill for a few minutes until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to three months—just ensure they cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.

For those looking to make this recipe ahead of time, you can marinate the chicken the night before and keep it in the refrigerator. This way, all you need to do is skewer and grill the chicken when you're ready to eat, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh chicken, but if using frozen, make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before marinating.

→ What vegetables pair well with these skewers?

Bell peppers, zucchini, onions, and cherry tomatoes are great options and can be grilled alongside the chicken.

→ How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours for more intense flavor; just keep it in the refrigerator.

→ What dipping sauces do you recommend?

I recommend a garlic yogurt sauce or a spicy sriracha mayo for a tasty complement to the chicken skewers.