Description
A quick, budget-friendly weeknight dinner featuring juicy chicken thighs seasoned with a simple spice rub and grilled to perfection. This recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it perfect for busy families.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 large bell pepper, cut into chunks (optional)
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks (optional)
- Wooden bamboo skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- Soak wooden skewers in cold water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F / 200°C). If using an oven, preheat to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels and cut into 1.5-inch uniform cubes.
- Place chicken cubes in a large mixing bowl.
- Add olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl.
- Toss chicken with hands until evenly coated in the spice mixture.
- Thread chicken onto soaked skewers, leaving small spaces between cubes. If using veggies, alternate chicken and vegetable chunks.
- Place skewers on the hot grill grates. Close lid and cook for 5 minutes without moving to create grill marks.
- Flip skewers carefully with tongs and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Chicken is done when internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Chicken thighs are preferred over breasts as they stay juicier and are more forgiving. If using chicken breasts, cut into smaller 1-inch cubes. Ensure skewers are soaked to prevent burning. Do not crowd the grill to ensure proper searing. Rest meat for 5 minutes after cooking to retain juices. Can be baked in oven at 400°F for 15-18 minutes if grilling is not possible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skewers with veggi
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 14
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 32
Keywords: grilled chicken skewers, easy dinner, family meals, weeknight dinner, chicken thighs, budget-friendly, gluten-free, dairy-free, quick recipes