These citrus marinated chicken skewers capture the essence of sunshine on a plate — tender, juicy chicken infused with the bright zest of lemon and clementine, balanced by the warm undertones of garlic and olive oil. Each bite bursts with flavor, offering a blend of tangy, savory, and subtly sweet notes that make this dish a standout for summer gatherings, casual dinners, or meal prep. Whether enjoyed hot off the grill or served alongside a crisp salad, it’s the kind of recipe that feels fresh, light, and effortlessly delicious

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Ingredient Breakdown

The secret to this recipe lies in the perfect harmony between citrus and aromatics. The combination of lemon and clementine infuses the oil with both brightness and sweetness — lemon adds its classic tang, while clementine brings a gentle, floral warmth that softens the acidity. Garlic provides the savory backbone, deepening the overall flavor without overpowering the citrus.

Olive oil serves as the foundation, lending body and richness to the marinade while helping lock in moisture as the chicken grills. Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil ensures a smooth, well-rounded flavor that complements the fruit’s natural zest. The homemade citrus-garlic oil not only marinates the chicken but also doubles as a finishing drizzle, giving every skewer a glossy, aromatic coating.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish — their lean, tender texture absorbs the marinade beautifully while ensuring even cooking on the grill. When cut into uniform cubes, they cook quickly and retain their juiciness, delivering perfect grill marks and a flavorful charred crust every time.

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

The citrus-garlic oil begins with a simple yet transformative process. Blending lemons, clementines, and garlic with olive oil creates a fragrant emulsion that captures the full essence of each ingredient. Straining the mixture through a fine sieve removes the pulp while leaving behind a vibrant, silky oil that’s both tangy and aromatic. This infused oil can be made ahead of time, allowing its flavors to deepen as it rests in the refrigerator.

When it’s time to marinate, the chicken cubes are coated generously with the citrus-garlic oil and seasoned with kosher salt and freshly ground pepper. Thirty minutes of marination is just enough to tenderize the meat and infuse every bite with zesty brightness.

Grilling is where the magic happens. Preheating the grill ensures even heat, while threading the chicken pieces with a bit of space between each one helps them cook evenly. The key is to grill over medium heat, turning occasionally, until the edges are lightly charred and the centers are cooked through. The result is juicy chicken with a golden, caramelized exterior that tastes as good as it looks.

Before serving, a light drizzle of the reserved citrus-garlic oil adds a final layer of shine and freshness. The aroma of citrus mingling with smoky grilled chicken creates a sensory experience that’s as inviting as it is satisfying.

Recipe Tips

Lightly oil the grill grates before cooking to prevent the chicken from sticking.

Use metal skewers for convenience or soak bamboo skewers for 30 minutes to prevent burning.

For a bolder flavor, marinate the chicken for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.

To test doneness, ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F without cutting the chicken open.

Store leftover citrus-garlic oil in a sealed jar in the fridge and use it for salad dressings or roasted vegetables.

What to Serve With This Recipe

These skewers pair beautifully with sides that complement their citrusy profile. Serve them over lemon-herb rice or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete, well-balanced meal. A light couscous salad or a green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness and texture.

For drinks, crisp white wine, sparkling water with lime, or homemade mint lemonade enhances the dish’s bright flavors. If hosting a gathering, create a Mediterranean-inspired spread with pita, hummus, and tzatziki — the skewers will fit right in as a flavorful centerpiece.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, thighs work well and stay juicy, but adjust the cooking time slightly as they take longer to cook through.

How long should I marinate the chicken for stronger flavor?
Up to 2 hours is ideal for a deeper infusion.

Can I bake or pan-sear instead of grilling?
Absolutely. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes or sear in a skillet until fully cooked.

How long does the citrus-garlic oil keep in the refrigerator?
It lasts up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container.

Can I use oranges instead of clementines?
Yes, oranges provide a similar sweetness and work beautifully as a substitute.

Creative Variations

For a twist, add herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or cilantro to the marinade to enhance aroma and depth. Swap clementines for limes or grapefruit to introduce a different citrus tone. For a colorful presentation, thread chicken alongside bell peppers, zucchini, or onions. A final sprinkle of chili flakes or smoked paprika adds gentle heat that complements the citrus beautifully.

These citrus marinated chicken skewers bring sunshine to the table with every bite — tender, smoky, and infused with layers of fresh flavor. Their simplicity makes them a go-to for weeknights, yet their vibrant taste and presentation make them just as fitting for weekend barbecues or festive dinners. Light, flavorful, and irresistibly aromatic, they’re proof that the best meals often start with the simplest ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Citrus-Garlic Oil:

1 cup olive oil
6 cloves garlic
2 small lemons, halved and seeded
2 small clementines, halved and seeded (if needed)

For the Chicken:

1½ lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1½-inch cubes
½ cup citrus-garlic oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Citrus-Garlic Oil:

In a blender, combine the garlic, lemons, and clementines — including the rinds — with the olive oil. Blend on high until the mixture is completely smooth and fragrant. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or bowl, pressing gently to extract as much infused oil as possible. Discard the solids. The result is a vibrant, aromatic oil with a bright citrusy aroma and subtle garlic depth. Store the oil in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Marinate and Grill the Chicken:

Place the cubed chicken in a large mixing bowl. Pour in ½ cup of the prepared citrus-garlic oil and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss well to ensure every piece of chicken is evenly coated in the zesty marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully absorb into the meat.

Preheat the grill to medium heat. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing them slightly to ensure even cooking. Grill the skewers for 8 to 11 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken develops a light char on the edges and is fully cooked through.

Serve the skewers hot, with an optional drizzle of extra citrus-garlic oil for added brightness. These tender, flavorful skewers pair beautifully with rice, couscous, or a fresh garden salad for a light yet satisfying meal.