Plain grilled chicken can feel a bit bland, but a lively citrus‑herb glaze turns it into a vibrant main. The sharp lemon notes complement the sweet, tender ribbons of summer squash, creating a balanced, refreshing plate.
Prep time: 30 min Total time: 1 h 30 min
Lemon Chicken Skewers with Summer Squash Salad
Ingredients
- 3 small summer squash, thinly sliced
- 3 small zucchini, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ¼ cup dill sprigs
- ¼ cup chives, sliced thin
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- ½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 2 large garlic cloves, grated
- ½ tsp kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning
- 5 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb (≈454 g) boneless, skin‑less chicken breasts, cubed 1½ in (≈4 cm)
Optional toppings:
- Petals from squash blossoms
- Shaved Parmesan cheese
- Chopped toasted walnuts
- Crusty bread for serving
Directions
- Heat a grill or grill pan to 400 °F (205 °C). If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least an hour, then drain.
- Using a mandoline or vegetable peeler, turn the squash and zucchini into delicate ribbons. Toss them with basil, dill and chives, then set the bowl in the refrigerator while you finish the chicken.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together lemon zest, lemon juice, honey and garlic. While whisking, drizzle in the olive oil slowly until the mixture emulsifies. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, then split the dressing in half.
- Season the chicken cubes with a pinch of salt and pepper. Thread 4‑5 pieces onto each skewer. Grill, turning every few minutes and basting with half of the lemon‑herb dressing, until the chicken is opaque and reaches an internal temperature of 165 °F (about 10 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
- Plate the squash ribbon salad, placing two hot skewers on each portion. Drizzle the remaining dressing over everything. Top with any optional garnishes you like and serve immediately with crusty bread on the side.
Serves: 4 | Portion: 1 skewer with ~1½ cups salad
Nutrition (per serving): Calories 449 | Fat 23 g | Sat 4 g | Carbs 28 g | Fiber 10 g | Sugar 12 g | Protein 39 g