Introduction
This chicken thigh skewers recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a flavorful meal, perfect for barbecue lovers and anyone seeking a quick yet delicious dish. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon, rosemary, and Dijon mustard, these skewers are sure to please family and friends alike. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or preparing a meal for a gathering, this recipe is both simple and satisfying.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1 shallot, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch chunks
– 1 red onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces
Prep Time
Preparation for this dish takes approximately 15 minutes, not including marinate time.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: About 10 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes (including marinating)
Yield: Serves 4-6 people
This grilled chicken skewers recipe combines vibrant flavors and a straightforward cooking method, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. Enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, diced shallot, freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped fresh rosemary, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, and 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
In a gallon-size Ziploc bag or large bowl, add the cut chicken thighs and the prepared olive oil mixture. Make sure the chicken is well coated with the marinade. Seal the Ziploc bag or cover the bowl, then marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or up to overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination. After marinating, drain the chicken from the marinade.
Step 3: Prepare the Skewers
Thread the marinated chicken chunks and the cut red onion onto skewers, alternating between chicken and onion pieces for even cooking. Brush the skewers with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, ensuring it is hot enough to cook the chicken thoroughly.
Step 5: Grill the Skewers
Place the prepared skewers on the preheated grill. Cook the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Check that the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 6: Serve the Skewers
Once cooked, remove the skewers from the grill and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken and onion skewers!
Notes
Marination Time
For best results, marinate the chicken overnight to enhance flavor, but even a 2-hour marination will yield good results.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If a grill is not available, you can cook these skewers in a broiler or on a stovetop grill pan.
Serving Suggestions
These skewers pair well with rice, salads, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Cook techniques
Marinating
Marinating the chicken in a mixture of olive oil, shallot, lemon juice, rosemary, garlic, and Dijon mustard infuses flavor and helps to tenderize the meat. Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight, maximizes the flavor absorption.
Skewering
Threading the marinated chicken and red onion onto skewers not only makes the chicken easier to handle on the grill but also helps with even cooking. It can also enhance the presentation when serving.
Grilling
Grilling the skewers over medium heat allows for even cooking while creating those desirable grill marks. It’s important to turn the skewers occasionally to prevent burning and ensure the chicken is cooked through to the proper internal temperature of 165 degrees F.
Seasoning
Before grilling, brushing the skewers with a bit of olive oil and seasoning with additional salt and pepper enhances the flavor and helps form a tasty crust on the chicken as it cooks.
Cooking Time
Cooking the skewers for about 10 minutes ensures the chicken is fully cooked while remaining moist. Using a meat thermometer to check for the internal temperature is the most reliable method to ensure food safety.
FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breast can be used, but be aware that it may become drier if overcooked, as breasts have less fat than thighs.
What can I substitute for Dijon mustard?
You can substitute Dijon mustard with yellow mustard, honey mustard, or even omit it if you prefer.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check.
Can I make this recipe in the oven instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake the skewers in the oven at 400 degrees F for about 15-20 minutes or until the chicken reaches the appropriate internal temperature.
How long can I marinate the chicken?
You can marinate the chicken for as little as 2 hours or up to 24 hours for the best flavor. However, marinating for too long can cause the meat to become mushy due to the acidity of the lemon juice.
Conclusion
The marinated chicken skewers, infused with lemon, garlic, and rosemary, provide a delightful and refreshing flavor that is perfect for grilling. This recipe not only emphasizes the bright notes of citrus but also the depth of aromatic herbs, making it a wonderful choice for gatherings and outdoor meals. Enjoy the tender, juicy chicken paired with the vibrant roasted onions for a complete dish that is sure to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Combine bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes marinated in olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs for a colorful and flavorful addition to your meal.
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs
Swap Dijon mustard for honey in the marinade for a sweet twist. Serve this with a side of roasted root vegetables for a comforting meal.
Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad
Make a refreshing salad with cooked quinoa, diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and a lemon vinaigrette to accompany your skewers.
Spicy Chickpea Salad
Mix canned chickpeas with diced red onion, lemon juice, olive oil, and a touch of chili powder for a protein-packed side dish that complements the skewers.
Garlic Herb Mashed Potatoes
Prepare creamy mashed potatoes with roasted garlic and fresh rosemary to create a comforting side that pairs beautifully with grilled chicken.
