Honor and Flavor: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken & Veggie Skewers - Perfect for Memorial Day

 

 Memorial Day is a time to remember and honor those who have served our country. It's also a time for family, friends, and good food. This year, skip the complicated recipes and opt for these vibrant and flavorful Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken & Veggie Skewers. They're easy to prepare, cook quickly, and are perfect for feeding a crowd while enjoying the beautiful late spring weather.

 

These skewers are packed with tender chicken marinated in a bright lemon-herb mixture and threaded with colorful and slightly charred vegetables. They're a healthy, delicious, and visually appealing dish that embodies the spirit of togetherness.

 

Yields: 6-8 servings

Prep time: 30 minutes (plus at least 30 minutes for marinating)

Cook time: 12-15 minutes

 

Ingredients:

 

For the Marinade:

 

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes

1/4 cup olive oil

Juice and zest of 2 lemons

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Skewers:

 

1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces

1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick rounds

1 red onion, cut into wedges

1 pint cherry tomatoes

Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning)

Instructions:  

 

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor.

Prepare the Vegetables: While the chicken is marinating, chop the vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.

Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between chicken pieces and different vegetables. You can create a pattern or simply mix them up. Don't overcrowd the skewers to allow for even cooking.  

Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Skewers: Place the assembled skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the vegetables are tender-crisp and slightly charred.

Serve: Carefully remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. You can serve these delicious skewers on their own, over rice or couscous, or with a simple side salad.

Tips and Variations:

 

Vegetable Swaps: Feel free to substitute or add other vegetables like mushrooms, asparagus, or chunks of pineapple.

Herb Variations: If you don't have fresh herbs, you can use dried herbs, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon each.

Make it Spicy: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicier kick.

Make Ahead: You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables a day in advance to save time on Memorial Day. Assemble the skewers a few hours before grilling and keep them covered in the refrigerator.

Oven Option: If you don't have a grill, you can bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

This Memorial Day, gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and enjoy these flavorful and easy Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken & Veggie Skewers. It's a perfect way to celebrate the holiday with delicious food and cherished company.