Catch a whiff of sizzling marinated chicken, infused with spices that dance on your palate while the sun dips below the horizon. Small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas summer evoke memories of laughter, family gatherings, and mouthwatering flavors that linger long after the last bite. grilled veggie skewers
Picture this: a backyard barbecue where juicy morsels of chicken are skewered and grilled to perfection, creating a symphony of charred goodness. These delightful bites not only tantalize your taste buds but also bring everyone together for an unforgettable summer feast.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These small grilled chicken skewers are simple to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- With their bold flavor, they’re sure to impress at any gathering.
- Vibrant colors from fresh veggies make them visually appealing on any plate.
- Plus, they’re incredibly versatile; swap in your favorite proteins or vegetables for endless variations!
Ingredients for Small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas summer
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts will suffice; adjust based on your guest list or appetite.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of red, yellow, and green for vibrant color and sweetness.
- Red Onion: Adds a subtle sharpness that balances the sweetness of the peppers and chicken.
- Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances flavors and helps keep the chicken moist while grilling.
- Garlic Powder: This pantry staple adds depth to your marinade without overpowering the other flavors.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley or cilantro): They bring freshness that will elevate your skewers to gourmet status.
For the Marinade:
- Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce so you can control the saltiness of your dish.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the marinade and tenderizes the chicken.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas summer
For more inspiration, check out this Amish country casserole recipe.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by cutting your boneless chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes—think about two inches each. Then chop up your bell peppers and red onion into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.
Step 2: Whip Up That Marinade
In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and herbs. This marinade is what dreams are made of! Toss those cubed chickens in there until every piece is coated. Cover it with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the fridge for at least thirty minutes (but overnight is even better if you have time).
Step 3: Skewer It Up
Grab some wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden ones, soak them in water first) and start threading on those marinated chicken pieces interspersed with colorful veggies. Aim for a festive look—it’s summer after all!
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
Get your grill going—medium-high heat works best. If you're using an outdoor grill, be sure to preheat it for about ten minutes before placing your skewers on.
Step 5: Grill Time
Place those skewers on the grill and cook for about ten minutes total. Turn them halfway through so they get beautifully charred on all sides. You know they're done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 6: Serve It Up
Transfer those glorious skewers onto a serving platter. You can drizzle any leftover marinade (that hasn't touched raw meat) over them for added flavor. Enjoy with friends as you bask in summer's glory!
So there you have it—the ultimate guide to crafting small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas summer that will keep everyone coming back for seconds! No one will ever guess how easy you made it look while effortlessly becoming the star chef of your backyard barbecue! easy grilled shrimp skewers.
You Must Know
- This amazing greek chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by marinating your chicken skewers while you prepare your grill. Once the grill is hot, sear the skewers for that irresistible char, then cook some fresh veggies alongside. Efficiency is key to a delightful summer dinner!
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegetarian option. Add herbs like basil or cilantro to enhance the flavor, or toss in some colorful bell peppers and zucchini for extra crunch and nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover skewers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, ensuring they stay juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken marinate for at least an hour to absorb all those delicious flavors.
- Skewering pieces of vegetables with the chicken ensures even cooking and adds color.
- Don't forget to preheat your grill; a hot surface gives those lovely char marks!
Sometimes I whip up these small grilled chicken skewers for backyard barbecues, and my friends rave about them! The laughter and smiles around the table remind me why I love cooking so much.
FAQs
What are some easy small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas for summer?
Small grilled chicken skewers are perfect for summer dinners. You can marinate chicken pieces in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs before threading them onto skewers with colorful vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Grill them until golden brown for a deliciously charred flavor. grilled lemon chicken recipe Pair these skewers with a refreshing salad or couscous for a light meal. Don't forget to serve your skewers with a tasty dipping sauce, such as tzatziki or chimichurri, to enhance the flavors and make your dinner even more enjoyable.
Can I prepare small grilled chicken skewers in advance?
Yes, you can prepare small grilled chicken skewers in advance. Marinate the chicken pieces and assemble the skewers earlier in the day. Keep them refrigerated until you're ready to grill. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. When you’re ready for dinner, simply fire up the grill and cook them on medium heat until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What sides pair well with small grilled chicken skewers?
For a delightful summer dinner, consider serving small grilled chicken skewers with sides that complement their flavors. Fresh salads like cucumber-tomato salad or watermelon-feta salad are refreshing choices. Grilled corn on the cob adds a smoky sweetness that pairs well too. You could also serve a light quinoa salad or some roasted sweet potatoes for added texture and nutrition. These sides not only enhance your meal but also bring a vibrant touch to your summer dining experience.
Are there vegetarian options for small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas?
Absolutely! You can create vegetarian versions of small grilled chicken skewers by using firm tofu, tempeh, or your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers as the main ingredients. Marinate them similarly to how you would marinate chicken, using herbs and spices that pack flavor. Skewering these alternatives alongside cherry tomatoes and onions can make for a colorful presentation. Grilling brings out their natural flavors perfectly, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking for meat-free summer dinner ideas. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Conclusion for Small grilled chicken skewers dinner ideas summer
In conclusion, small grilled chicken skewers offer a versatile and flavorful option for summer dinners. With easy preparation and endless variations in marinades and side dishes, they make cooking fun and enjoyable. Preparing these skewers in advance saves time while enhancing flavor combinations. Whether served with refreshing salads or roasted vegetables, these dishes promise a delightful dining experience suitable for any gathering or family meal during the warm months. Enjoy experimenting with different ingredients to find your perfect combination!
Small Grilled Chicken Skewers
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Small Grilled Chicken Skewers are the perfect summer delight, offering juicy marinated chicken paired with vibrant vegetables for a burst of flavor. Ideal for backyard barbecues or family dinners, these skewers are simple to prepare and can be customized to suit any palate. With just a few fresh ingredients and quick cooking time, they promise mouthwatering bites that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 breasts)
- 1 cup bell peppers (mixed red, yellow, green), chopped
- 1 medium red onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro), chopped
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
Instructions
- Cut the chicken into 2-inch cubes and chop the bell peppers and onion into similar sizes.
- In a bowl, mix the soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, and herbs to create the marinade. Add the chicken cubes and coat well; marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread the marinated chicken and veggies onto skewers.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill skewers for about 10 minutes, turning halfway through until cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve warm on a platter with any leftover marinade drizzled on top.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approximately 100g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: - Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. - For variety, substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu and experiment with different vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes.
