Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Why Make This Recipe

Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with vibrant flavors.

This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. The marinade infuses the chicken with a delicious zest, while the lemon rice complements the skewers wonderfully.

It’s a simple meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it great for families and gatherings.

Print Recipe

Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Prep Time20 minutes mins

Cook Time30 minutes mins

Total Time50 minutes mins

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers wooden or metal
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

• In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
• Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
• Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
• While the chicken is grilling, rinse the basmati rice under cold water. In a pot, combine the rice, chicken broth (or water), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy.
• Serve the grilled chicken skewers over a bed of lemon rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Make Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 cups chicken broth or water
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper to create a marinade. Add the chicken cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
4. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked.
5. While the chicken is grilling, rinse the basmati rice under cold water. In a pot, combine the rice, chicken broth (or water), lemon juice, and lemon zest. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until rice is fluffy.
6. Serve the grilled chicken skewers over a bed of lemon rice and garnish with fresh parsley.

How to Serve Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

This dish is best served hot right off the grill. Place the grilled chicken skewers over a generous portion of lemon rice on each plate.

You can also add extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. Enjoy it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

How to Store Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

If you have leftovers, you can store the grilled chicken skewers and lemon rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the chicken and rice until heated through. You can also use a skillet to reheat on the stove.

Tips to Make Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemon Rice

• Marinate the chicken overnight for even more flavor.
• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Ensure the grill is hot before placing the skewers on it to get nice grill marks and prevent sticking.
• Use bone-in chicken for added flavor, though it may take longer to cook.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe. Add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or cherry tomatoes onto the skewers with the chicken for additional flavors and nutrition.

You can also replace the basmati rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use pork, beef, or seafood in place of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as different meats require different cooking times.

2. Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?
While marinating enhances the flavor, you can grill the chicken without marinating. However, it might not be as flavorful.

3. Can I cook these skewers in an oven?
Yes, if you don’t have access to a grill, you can cook the skewers in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.