Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the skewers. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Cut the chicken. Slice chicken into evenly sized bite-size pieces so they cook at the same speed.
- Chop the vegetables. Cut red bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and other vegetables into similar-size chunks.
- Make the marinade. In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, and black pepper.
- Marinate the chicken. Add chicken to the marinade and toss well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread the skewers. Alternate chicken, red bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, white onion, red onion, and zucchini on each skewer.
- Preheat the grill. Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill the skewers. Cook for 10 to 14 minutes, turning every few minutes, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
- Check doneness. Chicken should reach 165°F in the thickest piece.
- Serve fresh. Transfer to a platter, squeeze fresh lemon over the skewers, and garnish with parsley.
Pro Tip: Do not pack the skewer pieces too tightly. A little space helps heat circulate and cook everything evenly.
Pro Tip: If using chicken breast, do not overcook it. Pull the skewers from the grill as soon as the chicken reaches 165°F for the juiciest texture.
Healthy Tips & Daily Wellness
These healthy Fourth of July grilled chicken skewers are a great lighter option for summer parties because they combine lean protein, colorful vegetables, herbs, and a simple olive oil lemon marinade.
For a balanced plate, serve the skewers with a fresh salad, grilled corn, fruit salad, quinoa, rice, roasted potatoes, cucumber salad, or Greek yogurt sauce.
For a lower-carb meal, serve the skewers with lettuce wraps, grilled vegetables, cauliflower rice, cucumber tomato salad, or a big green salad.
For meal prep, grill extra skewers and store the chicken and vegetables with rice, salad greens, or roasted vegetables. Add sauce and lemon right before eating for the freshest flavor.
