Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender grilled chicken skewers marinated in bright citrus and garlic, served with a zesty herb-packed salsa verde perfect for summer evenings. This mediterranean-inspired summer cookout ready in about 52 minutes blends fresh squeezed orange juice, fresh squeezed lemon juice, minced garlic cloves into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 40 min Cook: 12 min Serves 4 Mediterranean cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine 1/4 cup fresh orange juice, 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice, 3 minced garlic cloves, 3 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp sea salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add 1 lb cubed boneless skinless chicken thighs and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 425°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving a little space between pieces.
  3. Step 3: Grill the chicken skewers for 4-5 minutes per side, turning once, until internal temperature reaches 165°F and edges are lightly charred.
  4. Step 4: While chicken cooks, mix 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh mint, 1 tbsp chopped capers, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, and 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil in a small bowl. Season with a pinch of salt.
  5. Step 5: Serve skewers drizzled with the herb salsa verde for a bright, fresh summer flavor.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde take to make?

Total time is about 52 minutes (40 min prep + 12 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Citrus-Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers with Summer Herb Salsa Verde?

Mediterranean summer cookout like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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