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–+ servings

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Cherry Tomatoes

Juicy, lemon-garlic marinated chicken skewers grilled with sweet cherry tomatoes until lightly charred. Fast, flavorful, and perfect for an easy summer-style dinner any time of year.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Soak & Marinate Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 27 minutes
Serving Size 4 servings

Equipment

  • Skewers (metal or wooden)
  • grill or grill pan
  • Large mixing bowl or zip-top bag
  • Tongs
  • Basting brush (optional)
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Instant-read thermometer
  • Shallow dish (for soaking wooden skewers)

Ingredients

  • 1.5 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs cut into 1-inch cubes (thighs stay juicier)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes firm and ripe
  • 0.25 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp lemon juice fresh
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp salt plus more to taste
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper plus more to taste
  • 8 skewers wooden or metal (soak wooden skewers 30 minutes)

Instructions

  • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes so they don’t burn on the grill.
  • Make the marinade: In a large bowl (or zip-top bag), whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Add chicken cubes and toss to coat well. Marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
  • Thread chicken and cherry tomatoes onto skewers, alternating pieces. Leave small gaps between pieces so heat can circulate.
  • Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F / 205°C). Clean and lightly oil the grates.
  • Grill skewers for 10–12 minutes total, turning every 2–3 minutes, until lightly charred and the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest piece.
  • Transfer skewers to a plate and rest 3–5 minutes before serving. Serve warm (optional: finish with an extra squeeze of lemon).

Notes

Chicken thighs are more forgiving and stay juicy, but chicken breast works great if you avoid overcooking. Cut pieces evenly for consistent cooking. If tomatoes soften faster than the chicken, move skewers to a slightly cooler spot on the grill for the last few minutes.
Storage: Remove leftovers from skewers and refrigerate up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Nutrition

Calories: 430kcal | Protein: 50g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 140mg | Sodium: 520mg