These Chicken Skewers make an ideal appetizer or a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner. Tender, garlicky chicken gets a touch of smoky flavor from a hot pan, and kids always seem to love them.
I publish recipes I return to when I need easy entertaining ideas, and these Chicken Skewers are one I make often. They pair especially well with bright salsas like Mango Avocado Salsa.
If you enjoy chicken appetizers, you might also like Garlic Butter Wings or Jerk Chicken Wings for variety.
The chicken is seasoned with a simple, flavorful dry spice and herb blend that comes together quickly, yielding juicy pieces with great taste.
These skewers are easy to assemble; don’t be intimidated by threading the meat—once you have your ingredients ready you can make several skewers in minutes.
One of the best things about this recipe is the time: about 30 minutes from start to finish. No backyard grill required—a stovetop grill pan delivers plenty of smoky character and excellent sear marks.
There’s just something satisfying about food served on a stick. These skewers are perfect for entertaining or a casual family meal—simple, tasty, and crowd-pleasing.
What are Chicken Skewers?
Chicken skewers are bite-sized pieces of chicken threaded onto bamboo or metal skewers and cooked quickly over high heat. They can be grilled outside, seared on a grill pan, or roasted in the oven. You may also hear them called chicken kebabs or kabobs.
Are Chicken Skewers Healthy?
Chicken skewers can be a healthy choice, especially when made with boneless, skinless cuts. Thighs have slightly more fat than breasts but stay juicy and flavorful when skinless. These skewers are naturally low in carbs and can easily fit into gluten-free or low-carb meal plans.
How to Marinate Chicken Skewers
To marinate, combine the chicken pieces and marinade in a bowl, cover, and refrigerate for several hours or overnight. You can also marinate at room temperature for up to 2 hours. Marinate before threading the meat onto skewers.
If you’re short on time, you can skip a long marinating step: rub the spice blend directly on the chicken, then thread and cook. This method still produces tasty results and is the approach used in this recipe.
How to Cook Chicken Skewers on Grill
Preheat the grill until very hot for a good sear and defined grill marks. Place the skewers on the grill and cook about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
How to Cook Chicken Skewers in the Oven
Line or grease a baking sheet and arrange skewers in a single layer. Roast in a 450°F oven for roughly 15 minutes, flipping once about two-thirds of the way through, until cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
Can you Freeze Chicken Skewers?
Yes. You can freeze uncooked, marinated skewers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw completely before cooking for best results.
What Goes With Chicken Skewers?
These skewers pair well with vegetable sides, rice, salads, and bold sauces. Suggested accompaniments include mango avocado salsa, coconut rice, cucumber mango salad, baked jollof rice, pepper sauce, or fried plantains.
Chicken Skewers
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Equipment
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Grill pan
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Bamboo or metal skewers
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1/4 teaspoon ground white or black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- More oil for brushing the grill pan
Instructions
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If using bamboo skewers, soak 7–10 skewers in water until fully submerged to prevent burning.
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Cut the chicken into 1–2 inch pieces and place them in a bowl. Add the thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, ginger powder, pepper, chicken bouillon, and olive oil. Mix well so every piece is evenly seasoned.
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Thread about three pieces of chicken onto each skewer.
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Heat a grill pan over high heat for about 3 minutes and brush it lightly with oil. Arrange the skewers in a single layer. Keep the exposed ends of bamboo skewers off the pan to reduce smoking.
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Cook the skewers about 5 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 5 minutes. Continue with remaining skewers until all pieces are cooked through and slightly charred at the edges.
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, sliced onions, or fresh vegetables. These are great with spicy pepper sauce or enjoyed on their own.
Notes
Nutrition
| Calories: 97kcal
| Carbohydrates: 1g
| Protein: 13g
| Fat: 4g
Additional Info
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