Honey Lime Chicken Skewers Simple and Tasty Recipe

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Get ready to impress your family with my simple and tasty Honey Lime Chicken Skewers recipe! The sweet and tangy flavor of honey and lime makes for the perfect marinade that infuses juicy chicken. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this dish is easy to make and sure to delight. Let me guide you step-by-step through the process, so you can enjoy these flavorful skewers in no time!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Flavorful Marinade: The combination of honey and lime creates a sweet and tangy marinade that infuses the chicken with incredible flavor.
2. Easily Customizable: You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes, making it perfect for any palate.
3. Quick and Simple: This recipe comes together quickly, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
4. Healthy Option: With lean chicken and fresh ingredients, these skewers are a nutritious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)

For the honey lime chicken skewers, you need fresh chicken breasts to start. I love using boneless, skinless chicken because it cooks evenly and stays juicy. The honey and lime juice are key in making the chicken sweet and tangy. You add soy sauce for depth and olive oil to keep it moist. Garlic and cumin give extra flavor, while black pepper and salt boost the taste. If you like some heat, toss in red pepper flakes.

Garnishes and Accompaniments

– Fresh cilantro leaves

– Suggested side dishes: jasmine rice or garden salad

Garnishing with fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and flavor. It brightens the dish and makes it look appealing. For side dishes, I recommend serving these skewers with jasmine rice. The rice absorbs the honey-lime sauce nicely. A fresh garden salad also pairs well and adds crunch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

To make the honey lime marinade, mix these in a bowl:

– 1/4 cup honey

– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

– 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon ground cumin

– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

– 1 teaspoon sea salt

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Whisk until smooth. The marinade adds rich flavor to the chicken. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. You can marinate up to 2 hours. This time helps the chicken absorb all the tasty flavors.

Preparing for Grilling

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This step is key for cooking the chicken evenly. If you use wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-30 minutes. This helps prevent burning. After marinating, skewer the chicken pieces. Leave gaps between them for even cooking.

Grilling Process

Place the skewers on the hot grill. Grill the chicken for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them every few minutes with tongs. This helps get nice grill marks. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Enjoy those beautiful grill marks!

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Marinating

To get the best flavor from your chicken, marinate it well. Here are my tips:

– Use a non-reactive bowl: Glass or plastic works best.

– Coat the chicken evenly: Make sure each piece is covered in the marinade.

– Don’t rush the marinating: Aim for at least 30 minutes, but up to 2 hours gives better flavor.

– Avoid too much acid: If you leave chicken in the marinade too long, it can become mushy.

Common mistakes to avoid:

– Overcrowding the bowl: Too many pieces together won’t marinate evenly.

– Not mixing the marinade: Make sure to whisk it well for even flavor.

Grilling Tips

Grilling is key to great chicken skewers. Here’s how to make it perfect:

– Preheat your grill: A hot grill ensures even cooking.

– Space the chicken: Leave gaps between pieces on the skewer for air flow.

– Turn regularly: This helps cook all sides evenly.

To know when your chicken is done:

– Check the temperature: It should reach 165°F (75°C).

– Look for clear juices: If the juices run clear, the chicken is ready.

Ways to Enhance Flavor

Want to take your skewers to the next level? Try these:

– Add spices: Consider smoked paprika, oregano, or chili powder for extra kick.

– Fresh herbs: Basil, thyme, or parsley can brighten the dish.

– Vary your marinades: Swap lime for lemon or orange for a different taste.

These tips will help you create the best honey lime chicken skewers. Enjoy the process and happy grilling!

Variations

Different Protein Options

You can easily swap chicken for other proteins. Here are some ideas:

– Shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast and takes on flavors well. Just marinate for 15-20 minutes.

– Pork: Use pork tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes. It brings a nice taste.

– Beef: Try flank steak or sirloin. Cut into cubes and marinate as you would chicken.

For vegetarian options, consider these:

– Tofu: Firm tofu absorbs the marinade well. Press and cube it before marinating.

– Mushrooms: Portobello or button mushrooms work great. Marinate and skewer whole.

– Vegetable Medley: Use bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. These add color and crunch.

Flavor Variations

You can change the flavor of your skewers in fun ways. Here are two simple ideas:

– Spicy Honey Lime: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your marinade. This gives your skewers a nice kick.

– Alternative Acids: Instead of lime juice, try orange or lemon juice. Each brings a unique twist to the flavor. Orange adds sweetness, while lemon gives a tangy taste.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

After grilling, let the skewers cool down. Place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate the cooked skewers within two hours. This keeps them fresh and safe to eat. You can store them for up to three days.

If you want to freeze the skewers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag. This method helps keep the flavors intact. Frozen skewers can last for about three months.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use the oven or a grill. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the chicken juicy and warm.

If using a grill, preheat it to medium heat. Grill the skewers for about 5-7 minutes. Turn them occasionally for even heating. Always check that the chicken is hot throughout before serving. Enjoy your tasty leftovers!

FAQs

How long should I marinate chicken for honey lime skewers?

You should marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. This time allows the chicken to soak up the sweet and tangy flavors. If you have more time, marinating for up to 2 hours works best. Longer marinating gives the chicken even more flavor.

What can I serve with honey lime chicken skewers?

These skewers go well with many sides. Here are a few tasty options:

– Jasmine rice for a light base.

– A fresh garden salad for crunch.

– Grilled vegetables for added color and taste.

– Corn on the cob for a sweet touch.

– Flatbreads for a fun wrap option.

Can I make honey lime chicken skewers in the oven?

Yes, you can make these skewers in the oven! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving. This method is great for cooler days or when grilling isn’t an option.

This article focused on making delicious honey lime chicken skewers. You learned about key ingredients, marinade tips, and grilling steps. We explored variations, including different proteins and flavors. Proper storage and reheating methods were also covered.

Now, you have all the tools to craft a tasty dish. Enjoy your grilling and impress your friends and family with these easy-to-make skewer

Honey Lime Chicken Skewers

Delicious marinated chicken skewers with a sweet and tangy honey lime flavor.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for added heat)
• to taste fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
• as needed wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

 

• In a large mixing bowl, combine honey, freshly squeezed lime juice, low-sodium soy sauce, extra virgin olive oil, minced garlic, ground cumin, black pepper, sea salt, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Whisk the mixture until well blended to create a marinade.
• Carefully place the cubed chicken into the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate the marinated chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours.
• Preheat your grill or a grill pan to a medium-high heat setting. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15-30 minutes to help prevent burning during grilling.
• Once marinated, take the chicken pieces and thread them onto the skewers, leaving slight gaps between each piece.
• Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Grill the chicken for approximately 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally with tongs to ensure even cooking.
• After grilling, remove the skewers from the grill and allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh cilantro leaves over the skewers.

Notes

These skewers pair beautifully with a side of jasmine rice or a fresh garden salad for a light and flavorful meal.

Keyword chicken, grilling, honey lime, skewers

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