Spiced Grilled Chicken Skewers (Printable)

Grilled chicken skewers served with zesty avocado salsa and aromatic spices for vibrant flavor.

# Ingredient list:

→ For the chicken skewers

01 - 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-1/2 inch cubes
02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
04 - 2 teaspoons ground cumin
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
06 - 1 teaspoon chili powder
07 - 1 teaspoon kosher salt
08 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
09 - Wooden or metal skewers, soaked if wooden

→ For the avocado salsa

10 - 2 medium avocados, diced
11 - 1/2 cup diced red onion
12 - 1/2 cup halved cherry tomatoes
13 - 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro leaves
14 - 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
15 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
16 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
17 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine olive oil, lime juice, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Whisk thoroughly until integrated.
02 - Add chicken cubes to the bowl and coat evenly with marinade. Cover bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours, to allow flavors to infuse.
03 - Remove chicken from marinade and thread onto prepared skewers, spacing pieces slightly apart for even cooking.
04 - Preheat outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
05 - Arrange skewers on the grill. Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until chicken is charred and cooked through with clear juices.
06 - While chicken grills, gently combine diced avocados, red onion, cherry tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, olive oil, kosher salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Toss lightly to preserve avocado texture.
07 - Transfer grilled chicken skewers to a serving platter. Spoon avocado salsa alongside or on top. Serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
  • Ready in about thirty five minutes with minimal hands-on time
  • Balanced flavors with smoky spice and bright citrusy salsa
  • Easily doubled or halved for family or a crowd
  • Grilling outdoors keeps the kitchen cool
02 -
  • Packed with protein and healthy fats
  • Never dry thanks to the yogurt marinade
  • Stellar for meal prep
03 -
  • Use double skewers if you have them so the chicken does not spin around when you flip it
  • Let the chicken rest just a couple minutes after grilling this helps seal in all those flavorful juices
  • Choose perfectly ripe avocados the little nubby stem should come off easily and show green underneath