Juicy and flavorful chicken skewers marinated with aromatic spices, cooked to perfection in the oven for an easy and delicious meal. These skewers are perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s a healthy and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare.
The marinade infuses the chicken with rich, savory flavors.
Cooking in the oven ensures tender, juicy chicken with minimal effort.
Versatile and perfect to pair with a variety of side dishes.
No grill? No problem—these skewers are oven-friendly.
Ingredients
Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
In a large mixing bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion alternately onto the soaked wooden skewers.
Arrange the skewers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each one for even cooking.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned on the edges. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve warm with your favorite sides or dipping sauces.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination time)
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 280 kcal per serving
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with tofu or halloumi cheese for a vegetarian twist.
Different Proteins: Try turkey, shrimp, or beef instead of chicken.
Spice Level: Add more chili powder or cayenne for extra heat.
Additional Veggies: Include zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for more variety.
Herb Infusion: Garnish with fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill for a burst of freshness.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover chicken skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave for a quicker option, though the veggies may soften more.
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FAQs
How long should I marinate the chicken?
I recommend marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors develop. For deeper flavor, marinate it for up to 4 hours.
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the skewers a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
What sides go well with chicken skewers?
I love pairing them with rice, quinoa, a fresh salad, or even pita bread and hummus for a Mediterranean vibe.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones?
Absolutely. If using metal skewers, there’s no need to soak them beforehand.
How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is the best tool for accuracy.
Conclusion
Chicken skewers in the oven are a versatile, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. With a marinade that packs a punch and a simple baking process, these skewers are bound to become a household favorite. Try them today and enjoy the vibrant flavors.
📖 Recipe:
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Chicken Skewers in the Oven
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Juicy and flavorful chicken skewers marinated with aromatic spices, baked to perfection in the oven. A healthy, easy-to-make meal ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
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
1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks
1 red onion, cut into chunks
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, chili powder (if using), salt, and black pepper to prepare the marinade.
- Toss chicken pieces in the marinade until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours.
- Alternate threading marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto soaked wooden skewers.
- Place the skewers on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each for even cooking.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway, until the chicken is cooked through and slightly browned at the edges. Ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides or dips.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate chicken overnight.
Soaking wooden skewers prevents burning during baking.
Experiment with additional veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus marination)
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 280 kcal
