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Keto Garlic Herb Chicken Snack Skewers – Simple, Flavorful, and Low-Carb

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken: 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • Olive oil: 3 tablespoons (extra-virgin preferred)
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
  • Lemon: Zest of 1 lemon and 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • Fresh herbs: 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, 1 tablespoon chopped thyme, 1 tablespoon chopped rosemary
  • Salt and pepper: To taste (about 1 to 1.5 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon pepper)
  • Smoked paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (optional but great for color and flavor)
  • Red pepper flakes: A pinch (optional for heat)
  • Skewers: 12–16 small wooden or metal skewers (about 6-inch snack size)
  • Optional for serving: Lemon wedges, keto-friendly ranch or garlic yogurt dip (made with full-fat Greek yogurt), fresh herb garnish

Method
 

  1. Prep the skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes to prevent burning. Metal skewers don’t need soaking.
  2. Cut the chicken: Slice chicken into 1-inch cubes. Try to keep pieces even so they cook at the same rate.
  3. Make the marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  4. Marinate: Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 6 hours for deeper flavor.
  5. Thread the skewers: Slide 4–5 chicken pieces onto each skewer, leaving a little space between pieces for airflow and even cooking.
  6. Choose your cooking method: Grill: Preheat to medium-high heat. Oil the grates lightly. Grill skewers 8–10 minutes, turning every 2–3 minutes, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. Oven: Preheat to 425°F (220°C). Place skewers on a lined baking sheet with a rack if possible. Bake 12–15 minutes, flipping once halfway through. Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for color.
  8. Stovetop: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Add a thin layer of oil. Cook 8–10 minutes, turning to brown all sides.
  9. Rest and serve: Let skewers rest for 3–5 minutes to keep juices in. Squeeze with fresh lemon and sprinkle with extra herbs if you like. Serve with a keto-friendly dip.