Charred Scallion and Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers
Juicy chicken bites kissed by the grill, bursting with the smoky flavor of charred scallions and a zesty lime kick.
Total: 25 minPrep: 15 minCook: 10 min4 servingsDifficulty: Easy⭐ 4.8 (125+ ratings)$
Ingredients
Servings:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: Lime wedges for serving
Steps
- 1 In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
- 2 Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they're well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- 3 Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- 4 Thread the chicken cubes and scallions onto skewers, alternating between the two.
- 5 Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill the skewers for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and scallions are charred.
- 6 Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side, if desired.
Equipment
- Grill
- Skewers (metal or wooden)
Variations
- For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the marinade.
- Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
Substitutions
- If limes are unavailable, use lemon juice as a substitute.
- Replace scallions with red bell peppers for a different flavor profile.
Pairings
- Corn on the cob
- Grilled vegetables
- A fresh green salad
Nutrition
Calories:
350 kcal
Fat:
18g fat
Carbs:
4g carbohydrates
Protein:
38g protein
Fiber:
1g fiber
Sugar:
2g sugar
Sodium:
200mg sodium
Tips
- For easier handling, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill; cook in batches if necessary for even cooking.
Storage
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
Freezing: Not ideal for freezing due to the scallions, but can be frozen before grilling. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh cilantro lime rice and a simple avocado crema.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing limeade.
FAQ
Can I make these skewers ahead of time?
Yes, marinate the chicken ahead and refrigerate. Assemble and grill just before serving for best texture.