Delicious and Easy-to-Make Skewers: A Guide to Prepping, Grilling, and Serving

Ingredients

500g chicken breast, cut into small cubes
2 bell peppers, seeded and cut into squares
1 large onion, cut into squares
1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
1 cup cherry tomatoes
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 cup lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes

Steps and instructions

Preheat your grill or broiler on medium heat.
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken to the bowl and toss to coat in the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes, or up to two hours in the refrigerator.
Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the soaked skewers, alternating between different types of ingredients.
Place the skewers on the preheated grill or under the broiler. Cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Remove the skewers from the grill or broiler and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tools for making

Grill or Broiler - You will need a grill or broiler to cook the skewers.
Wooden Skewers - These are used to thread the marinated chicken and vegetables for grilling.
Bowl - A large bowl is needed to whisk the marinade and coat the chicken.
Whisk - A whisk is used to mix the marinade ingredients together.
Knife - You will need a knife to cut the chicken breast, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini into the desired shapes.
Cutting board - A cutting board is necessary for safely chopping the ingredients.
Measuring cups - You will need measuring cups to accurately measure the olive oil and lemon juice.
Garlic mincer - A garlic mincer or press is required to mince the garlic cloves.

Recipe variations

Substitute chicken with beef or shrimp for a different protein option.
Add different vegetables such as mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or pineapple chunks.
Marinate the protein in a teriyaki or barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile.
Sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Include chunks of fresh pineapple for a sweet and savory combination.
Use different herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or paprika to change the flavor profile.
Make it vegetarian by using tofu or tempeh instead of meat.
Experiment with different dipping sauces like peanut sauce, tzatziki, or chimichurri.
Try grilling the skewers on a cedar plank for a smoky flavor.
Add a squeeze of lime juice or zest for a citrusy twist.

Recipe overview

Enjoy the perfect balance of juicy chicken and colorful, crispy vegetables with this recipe for Skewers. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors from the marinade of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. It involves marinating chicken in a flavorful mix, threading them on skewers along with fresh vegetables, and grilling till tender and charred. The skewers can be made on a grill outdoors or a broiler indoors, making it a versatile dish fit for any season. In less than an hour, you can have a delicious and healthy meal on your table that's sure to impress.

Common questions

Can I use a different meat? Yes, you can use beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu as alternatives to chicken in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite vegetables or what you have on hand. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Do I have to soak the wooden skewers? Soaking the wooden skewers helps prevent them from burning on the grill. It's recommended to soak them in water for about 20 minutes before threading the ingredients.
Can I use metal skewers instead of wooden ones? Yes, you can use metal skewers if you prefer. Just keep in mind that metal skewers can get hot during cooking, so handle them with care.
Can I marinate the chicken overnight? While marinating for a longer time can enhance the flavor, it's best to marinate the chicken for up to two hours in the refrigerator. Marinating overnight may result in the chicken becoming too tender and losing its texture.
Can I cook the skewers in the oven? Yes, you can cook the skewers in the oven under the broiler. Follow the same cooking instructions and adjust the cooking time as needed.
What can I serve these skewers with? Skewers are versatile and can be served with various side dishes. They go well with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve them with a dipping sauce such as tzatziki or a tangy barbecue sauce.

Serving dishes and utensils

Grill or Broiler - Needed to cook the skewers.
Wooden Skewers - Used to thread and cook the ingredients. Remember to soak them in water before using to prevent burning.
Large Bowl - Used for marinating the chicken and mixing the ingredients.
Whisk - Used to mix the marinade ingredients together.
Cutting Board - Needed for chopping the chicken, bell peppers, onion, and zucchini.
Knife - Used for cutting the chicken and vegetables into desired shapes and sizes.
Tongs - Helpful for flipping and turning the skewers while cooking.
Grill Brush - Used to clean the grill grates before and after cooking.
Platter or Plate - Used for serving the cooked skewers.

Origin stories

Skewers, or kebabs, as they're often known, have a rich and diverse history that spans several continents and thousands of years. The term "kebab" is derived from Arabic and originally referred to meat that was cooked over or next to flames. Fast-forward to the present day, and skewers have become a cooking method adopted by various cultures worldwide. Interestingly, the concept of cooking meat on a skewer was born out of necessity rather than culinary creativity. Nomadic tribes in the Middle East would use their swords to grill meat over open fires while on the move. Today, whether it's a backyard barbeque or a high-end restaurant, skewers remain a beloved method of cooking for their simplicity and versatility. The skewer happily accommodates any form of meat or veggie you please, making it universally popular and a true testament to the adage - necessity indeed is the mother of invention.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.