![- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - Wooden or metal skewers When I make these skewers, I focus on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken is the star, so choose high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This cut cooks evenly and stays juicy on the grill. Chopping up the chicken into 1-inch cubes helps them cook quickly and evenly. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal flavor. Look for vibrant green leaves, as they have the best taste. Lime juice brings a tangy kick that balances the savory notes. I always use fresh limes for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch. Olive oil is essential for the marinade. It helps coat the chicken and keeps it moist while grilling. Minced garlic provides a rich aroma and depth of flavor. Ground cumin and chili powder add warmth and a slight spice that makes these skewers pop. For seasoning, salt and black pepper enhance all the other flavors. If you use wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. - Additional spices (like smoked paprika) - Vegetables for skewering (bell peppers, onions, zucchini) You can easily customize these skewers. Try adding other spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist. Grilling veggies alongside the chicken adds color and makes a complete meal. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work well. Just cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking. For the full recipe, check out the details to create these tasty cilantro lime chicken skewers. To make the marinade, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine: - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Mix these well until you have a smooth blend. The cilantro and lime juice add a fresh zing that makes this dish pop. Next, take your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade. Make sure each piece gets a good cover. This helps the flavors soak in. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. If you're using a grill, oil it well to stop the chicken from sticking. Now, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before you serve. For the full recipe, check out the details above. For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. I recommend marinating for up to 2 hours. This allows the meat to soak up all the great flavors from the marinade. When grilling, make sure to oil your grill. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking. Thread the chicken onto skewers with some space between each piece. This helps the heat reach every part of the chicken. To make your dish pop, add lime wedges and chopped cilantro as a garnish. These add color and freshness. For side dishes, consider a fresh avocado salad or fluffy rice. Both pair well with the tangy chicken. You can find the full recipe for these delicious skewers above. {{image_2}} If you want to switch things up, try using shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well. Just marinate them like the chicken. If you choose tofu, use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and marinate. Both options give you tasty skewers with a twist. Grilling seasonal vegetables is a great way to enjoy this dish without meat. You can use bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Simply coat the veggies in the same marinade. Thread them onto skewers and grill until tender. This method offers a fresh, vibrant taste. For a fun twist, add different herbs or spices to the marinade. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. Fresh basil or oregano can bring a new taste that pairs well with lime. Feel free to experiment and find what you love. The flavor possibilities are endless! Check the [Full Recipe] for more details on the base dish. To store leftover cilantro lime chicken skewers, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, add a little lime juice before sealing. It helps keep the chicken juicy. You can freeze the skewers for future use. First, let the cooked skewers cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the best texture, reheat the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps them moist and warm. Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method is quicker but may make the chicken a bit dry. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up the flavors. For even better taste, try to marinate it for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more intense the cilantro and lime flavors become. Yes, you can bake the skewers in the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn the skewers halfway through. This method gives you a nice, even cook if you do not have a grill. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures the skewers are safe to eat and juicy. Perfectly cooked chicken is key to a great meal! Cilantro lime chicken skewers are tasty and easy to make. You learned how to marinate chicken and grill it for the best flavor. You can even add veggies or use other proteins like shrimp. Remember to store leftovers properly and follow reheating tips for a quick meal. Enjoy your flavorful skewers at parties or as a simple dinner. With these steps, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Your cooking skills just got a boost!](https://momdishmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/b3f52c36-dc5d-4987-9320-1cbdaf851045-768x768.webp)
Ready to impress your taste buds? These cilantro lime chicken skewers are bursting with flavor and are perfect for your next BBQ. I’ll show you how to create tender, juicy pieces marinated in zesty lime and fresh cilantro. With easy steps and tips for grilling, you’ll have a delicious dish that will make everyone crave seconds. Let’s get started and transform your grilling game!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Chicken Skewers
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Wooden or metal skewers
When I make these skewers, I focus on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken is the star, so choose high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This cut cooks evenly and stays juicy on the grill. Chopping up the chicken into 1-inch cubes helps them cook quickly and evenly.
Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal flavor. Look for vibrant green leaves, as they have the best taste. Lime juice brings a tangy kick that balances the savory notes. I always use fresh limes for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch.
Olive oil is essential for the marinade. It helps coat the chicken and keeps it moist while grilling. Minced garlic provides a rich aroma and depth of flavor. Ground cumin and chili powder add warmth and a slight spice that makes these skewers pop.
For seasoning, salt and black pepper enhance all the other flavors. If you use wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
Optional Ingredients for Variations
– Additional spices (like smoked paprika)
– Vegetables for skewering (bell peppers, onions, zucchini)
You can easily customize these skewers. Try adding other spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist. Grilling veggies alongside the chicken adds color and makes a complete meal. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work well. Just cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Marinade
To make the marinade, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine:
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix these well until you have a smooth blend. The cilantro and lime juice add a fresh zing that makes this dish pop.
Marinating the Chicken
Next, take your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade. Make sure each piece gets a good cover. This helps the flavors soak in. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
Grilling the Skewers
When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. If you’re using a grill, oil it well to stop the chicken from sticking. Now, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before you serve.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Flavorful Skewers
For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. I recommend marinating for up to 2 hours. This allows the meat to soak up all the great flavors from the marinade. When grilling, make sure to oil your grill. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking. Thread the chicken onto skewers with some space between each piece. This helps the heat reach every part of the chicken.
Serving Suggestions
To make your dish pop, add lime wedges and chopped cilantro as a garnish. These add color and freshness. For side dishes, consider a fresh avocado salad or fluffy rice. Both pair well with the tangy chicken.
Variations
Different Protein Options
If you want to switch things up, try using shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well. Just marinate them like the chicken. If you choose tofu, use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and marinate. Both options give you tasty skewers with a twist.
Vegetarian Skewers
Grilling seasonal vegetables is a great way to enjoy this dish without meat. You can use bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Simply coat the veggies in the same marinade. Thread them onto skewers and grill until tender. This method offers a fresh, vibrant taste.
Spiced Up Versions
For a fun twist, add different herbs or spices to the marinade. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. Fresh basil or oregano can bring a new taste that pairs well with lime. Feel free to experiment and find what you love. The flavor possibilities are endless!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftover cilantro lime chicken skewers, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, add a little lime juice before sealing. It helps keep the chicken juicy.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze the skewers for future use. First, let the cooked skewers cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Tips
For the best texture, reheat the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps them moist and warm. Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method is quicker but may make the chicken a bit dry. Enjoy your delicious leftovers!
FAQs
How long do I need to marinate the chicken?
You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up the flavors. For even better taste, try to marinate it for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more intense the cilantro and lime flavors become.
Can I use an oven instead of a grill?
Yes, you can bake the skewers in the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn the skewers halfway through. This method gives you a nice, even cook if you do not have a grill.
What is the internal temperature for cooked chicken?
The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures the skewers are safe to eat and juicy. Perfectly cooked chicken is key to a great meal!
Cilantro lime chicken skewers are tasty and easy to make. You learned how to marinate chicken and grill it for the best flavor. You can even add veggies or use other proteins like shrimp. Remember to store leftovers properly and follow reheating tips for a quick meal. Enjoy your flavorful skewers at parties or as a simple dinner. With these steps, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Your cooking skills just got a boost!
![- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper - Wooden or metal skewers When I make these skewers, I focus on fresh, simple ingredients. The chicken is the star, so choose high-quality, boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This cut cooks evenly and stays juicy on the grill. Chopping up the chicken into 1-inch cubes helps them cook quickly and evenly. Fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal flavor. Look for vibrant green leaves, as they have the best taste. Lime juice brings a tangy kick that balances the savory notes. I always use fresh limes for the best flavor, but bottled juice works in a pinch. Olive oil is essential for the marinade. It helps coat the chicken and keeps it moist while grilling. Minced garlic provides a rich aroma and depth of flavor. Ground cumin and chili powder add warmth and a slight spice that makes these skewers pop. For seasoning, salt and black pepper enhance all the other flavors. If you use wooden skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes. This prevents them from burning on the grill. - Additional spices (like smoked paprika) - Vegetables for skewering (bell peppers, onions, zucchini) You can easily customize these skewers. Try adding other spices like smoked paprika for a unique twist. Grilling veggies alongside the chicken adds color and makes a complete meal. Bell peppers, onions, and zucchini work well. Just cut them into similar sizes to the chicken for even cooking. For the full recipe, check out the details to create these tasty cilantro lime chicken skewers. To make the marinade, gather your ingredients. In a large bowl, combine: - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped - 2 tablespoons lime juice (about 1 lime) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon ground cumin - 1 teaspoon chili powder - 1/2 teaspoon salt - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Mix these well until you have a smooth blend. The cilantro and lime juice add a fresh zing that makes this dish pop. Next, take your 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes. Coat the chicken pieces in the marinade. Make sure each piece gets a good cover. This helps the flavors soak in. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor. When you are ready to grill, preheat your grill or a grill pan over medium heat. If you're using a grill, oil it well to stop the chicken from sticking. Now, thread the marinated chicken onto skewers. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. Grill the skewers for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before you serve. For the full recipe, check out the details above. For the best flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 30 minutes. I recommend marinating for up to 2 hours. This allows the meat to soak up all the great flavors from the marinade. When grilling, make sure to oil your grill. This helps prevent the chicken from sticking. Thread the chicken onto skewers with some space between each piece. This helps the heat reach every part of the chicken. To make your dish pop, add lime wedges and chopped cilantro as a garnish. These add color and freshness. For side dishes, consider a fresh avocado salad or fluffy rice. Both pair well with the tangy chicken. You can find the full recipe for these delicious skewers above. {{image_2}} If you want to switch things up, try using shrimp or tofu. Shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up flavors well. Just marinate them like the chicken. If you choose tofu, use firm tofu and press it to remove extra water. Cut it into cubes and marinate. Both options give you tasty skewers with a twist. Grilling seasonal vegetables is a great way to enjoy this dish without meat. You can use bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes. Simply coat the veggies in the same marinade. Thread them onto skewers and grill until tender. This method offers a fresh, vibrant taste. For a fun twist, add different herbs or spices to the marinade. Smoked paprika gives a nice smoky flavor. Fresh basil or oregano can bring a new taste that pairs well with lime. Feel free to experiment and find what you love. The flavor possibilities are endless! Check the [Full Recipe] for more details on the base dish. To store leftover cilantro lime chicken skewers, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. They stay fresh for up to three days in the fridge. Make sure to seal the container well. This keeps the flavors intact and prevents drying out. If you want to enjoy them later, add a little lime juice before sealing. It helps keep the chicken juicy. You can freeze the skewers for future use. First, let the cooked skewers cool completely. Then, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. After that, place them in a freezer-safe bag. Label the bag with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. For the best texture, reheat the skewers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10 to 15 minutes. This keeps them moist and warm. Alternatively, you can use a microwave. Heat in short bursts, checking often. This method is quicker but may make the chicken a bit dry. Enjoy your delicious leftovers! You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This time helps the chicken soak up the flavors. For even better taste, try to marinate it for up to 2 hours. The longer you marinate, the more intense the cilantro and lime flavors become. Yes, you can bake the skewers in the oven. Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes. Make sure to turn the skewers halfway through. This method gives you a nice, even cook if you do not have a grill. The safe internal temperature for cooked chicken is 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the chicken. This ensures the skewers are safe to eat and juicy. Perfectly cooked chicken is key to a great meal! Cilantro lime chicken skewers are tasty and easy to make. You learned how to marinate chicken and grill it for the best flavor. You can even add veggies or use other proteins like shrimp. Remember to store leftovers properly and follow reheating tips for a quick meal. Enjoy your flavorful skewers at parties or as a simple dinner. With these steps, you’ll impress everyone at the table. Your cooking skills just got a boost!](https://momdishmagic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/b3f52c36-dc5d-4987-9320-1cbdaf851045-250x250.webp)
