Description
These lemon herb chicken skewers are bursting with flavor, tender on the inside, and charred just right on the outside. Paired with aromatic saffron rice, this dish is a Mediterranean-inspired delight perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Juice and zest of 2 lemons
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup (190g) basmati rice
- 1 ¾ cups (415ml) chicken broth or water
- 1 pinch saffron threads
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, zest, olive oil, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes, toss to coat, and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator.
- Prepare the Saffron Rice: In a small bowl, steep the saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of warm water for 5 minutes. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth, saffron water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Serve: Plate the saffron rice and top it with the grilled chicken skewers. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning. Use a cast-iron grill pan for indoor grilling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 2 skewers with rice
- Calories: 400
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Protein: 35
Keywords: lemon herb chicken, saffron rice, grilled chicken skewers, Mediterranean recipe, summer grilling