Description
These flavorful chicken skewers are marinated with a zesty blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and aromatic spices, then baked to juicy perfection in the oven. Perfect for a quick, healthy meal, they combine tender chicken with vibrant bell peppers and onions for a colorful and satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
Other
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Make Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, optional chili powder, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful marinade.
- Marinate Chicken: Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade and toss until fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse. You can marinate for up to 4 hours for enhanced taste.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken pieces alternately with chunks of bell pepper and red onion onto the soaked wooden skewers, distributing ingredients evenly.
- Arrange Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring there is space between each skewer for even cooking and air circulation.
- Bake: Bake the skewers in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes. Turn the skewers halfway through cooking to achieve even browning. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safely cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the skewers to rest for a few minutes after baking to let the juices redistribute. Serve warm with your favorite sides or dipping sauces for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes prevents them from burning in the oven.
- For extra smoky flavor, you can add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika to the marinade.
- Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier and more tender results.
- Serve with a side of rice, salad, or flatbread for a complete meal.
- If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal skewers can be used safely.
