Low-carb chicken and vegetable skewers are a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal, especially during grilling season. These skewers are packed with lean protein from chicken and a variety of colorful, low-carb vegetables, making them an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic or low-carb lifestyle. They’re also incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for outdoor barbecues or indoor grilling. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through creating the perfect low-carb chicken and vegetable skewers, sharing tips, variations, and answers to your frequently asked questions.
Why These Low-Carb Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a Must-Try
- Low-Carb Friendly: Perfect for ketogenic and low-carb diets.
- High in Protein: Lean chicken provides a substantial protein boost.1
- Packed with Nutrients: Vibrant vegetables offer essential vitamins and minerals.2
- Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions.
- Versatile and Customizable: Easily adapt to your favorite vegetables and seasonings.
- Great for Grilling: Perfect for outdoor barbecues or indoor grilling.
Ingredients for the Best Low-Carb Chicken and Vegetable Skewers
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 bell pepper (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 zucchini, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup mushrooms, halved or quartered
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: wooden or metal skewers
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat thoroughly. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours.
- Prepare the Vegetables: Wash and cut the vegetables into uniform pieces.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken and vegetables onto the skewers, alternating between chicken and vegetables.
- Grill or Bake:
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- 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, turning halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve: Serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
- Use Different Vegetables: Feel free to use other low-carb vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or cauliflower.
- Add Spice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the marinade for extra heat.
- Use Different Proteins: Shrimp or steak cubes can be substituted for the chicken.
- Marinate Longer: Marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavor.
- Use Metal Skewers: Metal skewers are reusable and conduct heat more evenly.3 If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Nutrition Information (Approximate values per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 300-400 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15-20g |
| Sodium | 400-600mg |
| Protein | 35-40g |
| Net Carbs | 5-8g |
FAQ
- “What are the best vegetables for low-carb skewers?”
- Bell peppers, red onions, zucchini, mushrooms, and cherry tomatoes are excellent choices.
- “How long do you grill chicken skewers?”
- Grill for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.
- “Can you marinate chicken skewers overnight?”
- Yes, marinating overnight enhances the flavor.
- “Are chicken and vegetable skewers healthy?”
- Yes, they are healthy, providing lean protein and essential nutrients.4
- “What are good low-carb marinades for chicken?”
- Olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs are great options.
- “How do you keep chicken skewers from sticking to the grill?”
- Oil the grill grates and ensure the grill is hot before placing the skewers.
- “Can you bake chicken skewers instead of grilling?”
- Yes, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.
These low-carb chicken and vegetable skewers are a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their simple ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a grilling favorite.