Grilled Chicken Skewers

The aroma of grilled lemongrass and garlic hits you the moment these skewers hit the grill. Each bite of the juicy, marinated chicken is infused with Southeast Asian flavors from the punch of garlic to the subtle citrusy zing of lemongrass. Whether you’re cooking for a summer gathering, weeknight dinner, or looking to impress guests, these chicken skewers are an easy win. Serve them over steamed rice, a fresh salad, or enjoy them as is with a cold drink in hand they’re an irresistible blend of sweet, savory, and smoky perfection.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 stalks lemongrass, finely minced

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon fish sauce

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 1 tablespoon lime juice

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• Bamboo skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)

Directions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine lemongrass, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, fish sauce, honey, lime juice, vegetable oil, and black pepper. Stir until well mixed.

2. Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, toss to coat evenly, cover, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (or overnight for best flavor).

3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.

4. Thread the marinated chicken onto the soaked skewers.

5. Grill the skewers for 3-4 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.

6. Serve hot with a side of rice, salad, or dipping sauce.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 270 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Guide to Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemongrass and Garlic

If you’re searching for a recipe that perfectly blends bold flavor, simplicity, and universal appeal, look no further than these Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemongrass and Garlic. Whether you’re planning a weekend BBQ, a family dinner, or just want something new and exciting for your weekly meal plan, these skewers offer a flavorful adventure rooted in Southeast Asian culinary traditions.

Why Grilled Chicken Skewers Are Always a Hit

Grilled chicken skewers are an international favorite for a reason. From Middle Eastern shish kebabs to Japanese yakitori, there’s something universally satisfying about tender meat threaded on skewers and grilled over open flames. They’re fun to eat, easy to serve, and can be customized with a variety of marinades and flavor profiles.

What sets these lemongrass and garlic chicken skewers apart is the way they embrace Southeast Asian ingredients to create something truly special. Lemongrass brings a fresh, citrusy aroma, while garlic adds a warm, pungent kick. Combined with the umami of fish sauce, the sweetness of honey, and a touch of lime, these skewers pack a flavorful punch that’s hard to resist.

The Inspiration Behind This Flavor Profile

Lemongrass chicken is a staple in Vietnamese and Thai cuisines, often found in grilled dishes, soups, and stir-fries. This recipe draws inspiration from traditional Vietnamese street food, where skewered meats are marinated and grilled right on roadside stalls, filling the air with mouthwatering aromas.

The marinade is where the magic happens. The use of fresh lemongrass is key it infuses the chicken with a unique, bright fragrance that no bottled sauce can replicate. Garlic, ginger, and a touch of lime create a balanced depth of flavor that harmonizes sweet, savory, tangy, and spicy notes.

This balance is a hallmark of Southeast Asian cooking and one of the main reasons these skewers are so addictive.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Make-Ahead Meals

One of the most convenient aspects of this dish is its suitability for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken the night before or even freeze it in the marinade for later use. This means that when you’re ready to cook, all you need to do is skewer and grill.

The cooked skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making them a great protein option to toss into salads, serve with noodles or rice, or enjoy as a quick snack. This kind of flexibility is a lifesaver during busy weeks, and the flavor holds up beautifully even after reheating.

Tips for Getting the Perfect Grill Every Time

Achieving that beautiful caramelized char on the chicken without overcooking it requires some attention to detail. First, make sure your grill or grill pan is preheated to medium-high. You want the chicken to sear quickly, locking in the juices while developing those mouthwatering grill marks.

Soaking the skewers in water beforehand is crucial if you’re using bamboo or wooden sticks. This prevents them from catching fire on the grill. And don’t overcrowd your skewers leave a little space between each piece of chicken so that the heat circulates evenly.

Another tip: Brush on a bit of the leftover marinade (reserved before the chicken is added, for food safety) during grilling to enhance the glaze and deepen the flavor.

Best Pairings for These Chicken Skewers

While the chicken skewers are undeniably the star of the show, they truly shine when paired with complementary sides and sauces. Here are a few serving suggestions to round out your meal:

• Steamed Jasmine or Basmati Rice: A neutral base that lets the chicken flavor stand out.

• Pickled Vegetables: Adds a tangy crunch that balances the smoky grilled meat.

• Vietnamese Nuoc Cham Dipping Sauce: A classic fish sauce-based condiment that boosts umami.

• Fresh Herbs and Lettuce Wraps: Let guests wrap their own skewers with mint, basil, cilantro, and crisp lettuce for a DIY handheld bite.

If you’re feeling adventurous, serve them alongside a mango salad or papaya slaw to bring in sweet and sour notes that contrast beautifully with the savory meat.

Health Benefits of Lemongrass and Garlic

Beyond flavor, this recipe is packed with ingredients that offer health benefits. Lemongrass is known for its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. It may help in reducing inflammation and improving digestion.

Garlic is another nutritional powerhouse. It’s been widely studied for its ability to boost immune function, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels. When combined in a dish that’s grilled rather than fried, these skewers offer a healthier alternative to many traditional meat-based meals.

Customization Options to Fit Any Diet

This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for a variety of dietary preferences. Want to make it low-carb? Serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Prefer a plant-based alternative? Swap out the chicken for tofu or seitan both absorb the marinade well and grill up beautifully.

You can also adjust the marinade to fit your heat preference. Add chopped chili for extra spice, or a splash of coconut milk for a creamier, richer marinade.

Why This Dish Belongs in Your Regular Rotation

In today’s fast-paced world, recipes that are both easy to prepare and bursting with flavor are worth their weight in gold. These Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemongrass and Garlic meet both criteria—and then some.

They’re ideal for entertaining, weeknight dinners, meal prepping, and even as a main feature in a summer picnic. The simplicity of the preparation belies the complexity of the flavor, which means you get maximum impact with minimal effort.

Conclusion:

These Grilled Chicken Skewers with Lemongrass and Garlic are more than just a meal they’re a sensory experience. The scent of lemongrass sizzling on the grill, the savory bite of garlic-laced chicken, and the joy of sharing handheld skewers with friends and family all come together in a dish that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen.

If you’re new to Southeast Asian cooking, this recipe is a perfect entry point. It uses accessible ingredients, straightforward techniques, and rewards you with bold, unforgettable flavor. And if you’re already a fan of these cuisines, it’s likely to become one of your favorite go-to dishes.

So go ahead fire up that grill and treat yourself to something flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly easy to love. Once you try these chicken skewers, you’ll wonder how you ever grilled without them.