Tired of the same old boring keto dinners? Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken, kissed with smoky char from the grill and bursting with flavor in every bite. These Keto Chicken Skewers are your answer to a quick, easy, and ridiculously delicious low-carb meal that will become a new family favorite; I promise you won’t be disappointed!
Let’s Gather Our Ingredients!
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Cut into 1-inch cubes. Chicken thighs work great too for a richer flavor!
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup Olive Oil: Provides moisture and helps the marinade adhere.
- 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (or Coconut Aminos for Paleo): Adds umami and saltiness. Coconut aminos offer a slightly sweeter profile.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard: Adds tang and helps tenderize the chicken.
- 2 cloves Garlic: Minced. Fresh garlic is always best!
- 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Adds savory flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always preferred.
- Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a touch of heat.
Optional Skewer Additions:
- Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, or orange, cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Red Onion: Cut into 1-inch pieces.
- Zucchini: Cut into 1/2-inch thick slices.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Adds a pop of sweetness.
Step-by-Step Instructions: The Easy Way to Keto Chicken Skewer Perfection
Get Everything Ready:
- Soak Wooden Skewers (if using): Submerge wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning. If you have metal skewers, even better! They are reusable and don’t require soaking.
- Prepare the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking.
- Prep the Vegetables (if using): Chop your chosen vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
Make the Delicious Marinade:
- Whisk It Up: In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Marinate the Chicken:
- Coat the Chicken: Place the chicken cubes in a ziplock bag or a bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.
- Marinate Time: Seal the bag or cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. The longer it marinates, the more flavorful it will be! Don’t go beyond 4 hours though, the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken too much.
Assemble the Skewers:
- Thread It All: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with your chosen vegetables (if using). Don’t overcrowd the skewers; leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
Cooking Options: Choose Your Adventure!
Grilling:
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C).
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Baking:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Skewers: Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Again, check for that 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Air Frying:
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if your model requires it.
- Air Fry the Skewers: Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches). Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
Serve and Enjoy!
- Rest: Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy! They’re fantastic with a side salad, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
Tips and Tricks for Keto Chicken Skewer Success
Marinade Magic:
Don’t skip the marinade! It’s crucial for flavor and tenderness. Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize your marinade to your liking. A little ginger or curry powder can add an exotic twist.
Vegetable Variety:
Feel free to use any low-carb vegetables you enjoy. Mushrooms, broccoli florets, and even Brussels sprouts work well. Just be mindful of the cooking times; some vegetables may need to be added later in the grilling/baking process to prevent them from burning.
Preventing Dry Chicken:
Overcooking chicken is the quickest way to ruin a skewer. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s cooked to a safe temperature without drying out. Also, the marinade helps to keep the chicken moist, so don’t skimp on it!
Keto No Cheese Recipes Variations:
This recipe is naturally a great option for those looking for Keto No Cheese Recipes! The focus is entirely on flavorful chicken and vegetables, without relying on any dairy products. You can easily customize the marinade to exclude any ingredients you may be sensitive to.
Healthy Dinner Recipes For Picky Eaters Low Carb:
These skewers are also a winner for Healthy Dinner Recipes For Picky Eaters Low Carb. You can deconstruct the skewers, serving the chicken and vegetables separately, allowing picky eaters to choose what they want. The bright colors and appealing presentation also help!
Keto Food Prep Ideas:
Looking for Keto Food Prep Ideas? These skewers are perfect! Marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. You can even assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two. This makes them a super quick and easy weeknight meal.
Quick And Healthy Dinner Ideas Low Carb:
When it comes to Quick And Healthy Dinner Ideas Low Carb, this recipe shines. With minimal prep time and a relatively quick cooking time, these Keto Chicken Skewers can be on your table in under 30 minutes. Pair with a simple side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Serving Suggestions: Complete Your Keto Feast
These Keto Chicken Skewers are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with:
- Cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower
- A side salad with a keto-friendly dressing
- Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers
- A creamy avocado dip
Love Chicken? Try these other Keto-Friendly Recipes!
If you enjoyed these Keto Chicken Skewers, you might also like some of my other favorite chicken recipes:
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken: A classic for a reason!
- Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers: A zesty and flavorful twist.
- Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken: Crispy and delicious in minutes.
- Crockpot Garlic Parmesan Chicken & Potatoes: A comforting and easy dump dinner.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken Perfection 2025: A recipe for the ages!
Don’t Forget Dessert!
To complete your keto meal, why not try a Keto Cheesesteak Roll as a sweet treat?
Final Thoughts: Get Grilling!
These Keto Chicken Skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful, and satisfying meal while staying true to your low-carb lifestyle. They are incredibly versatile, easy to make, and perfect for grilling, baking, or air frying. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the best Keto Chicken Skewers you’ve ever tasted! You’ve got this!
What are some good low-carb vegetables to use on these keto chicken skewers?
The recipe suggests bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. You can also use mushrooms, broccoli florets, or Brussels sprouts.
How long should I marinate the chicken for the best flavor?
The recipe recommends marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Marinating longer will result in more flavorful chicken, but don’t exceed 4 hours as the lemon juice can start to break down the chicken.
What’s the best way to prevent the chicken skewers from drying out while cooking?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking. The marinade also helps keep the chicken moist.
I’m looking for keto food prep ideas; can I prepare these skewers in advance?
Yes, these skewers are great for keto food prep! You can marinate the chicken and chop the vegetables ahead of time. You can even assemble the skewers and store them in the refrigerator for a day or two.
Best Keto Chicken Skewers Ever
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Ziplock bag or bowl for marinating
- Wooden or metal skewers
- Grill, oven, or air fryer
- Baking sheet (for baking)
- Parchment paper (for baking)
- Meat thermometer
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ¼ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes optional
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces optional
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces optional
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices optional
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes optional
Instructions
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
- Cut the chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch cubes.
- Chop your chosen vegetables into similar-sized pieces.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce (or coconut aminos), Dijon mustard, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Place the chicken cubes in a ziplock bag or a bowl.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring every piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the bowl and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, alternating with your chosen vegetables (if using). Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- To grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 350-400°F or 175-200°C). Place the skewers on the preheated grill. Cook for 8-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a slight char. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- To bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Check for that 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- To air fry: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) if your model requires it. Place the skewers in the air fryer basket in a single layer (you may need to cook them in batches). Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serve hot and enjoy! They’re fantastic with a side salad, cauliflower rice, or roasted vegetables.
