Honey Lime Chicken Skewers

Name: Honey Lime Chicken Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1/4 cup honey; 1/4 cup fresh lime juice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Honey Lime Chicken Skewers for gatherings or family dinners. The combination of honey and lime creates a tangy-sweet marinade that really elevates the chicken’s flavor. After experimenting with different ratios, I found that using fresh lime juice mixed with honey not only tenderizes the chicken but also locks in the moisture, resulting in juicy skewers every time. Grilling them until just charred adds a perfect smoky finish that keeps everyone coming back for seconds!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-13T16:18:19.415Z

When I first made Honey Lime Chicken Skewers, I was amazed at how simple ingredients yielded such vibrant flavors. The sweetness of honey combines beautifully with the zestiness of lime, creating a marinade that permeates the chicken, making each bite a delight. I learned that marinating for at least 30 minutes enhances the flavor, but for best results, overnight is ideal.

Grilling these skewers adds a smoky charm that perfectly contrasts with the marinade's brightness. I often serve them with a fresh salad or rice, and I find that the skewers not only taste amazing but are visually appealing, making them a crowd-pleaser at any event.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Juicy chicken infused with a tangy-sweet marinade
Easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion
Great for outdoor grilling or indoor cooking

The Importance of the Marinade

The marinade is the star of Honey Lime Chicken Skewers, as it not only flavors the chicken but also tenderizes it. Honey helps to caramelize the chicken during grilling, creating a beautiful glaze. Make sure to use fresh lime juice, as bottled versions can lack the bright acidity necessary for a truly vibrant flavor. I recommend tasting the marinade before adding the chicken—adjust the sweetness or acidity to your preference.

Letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, but for optimal results, consider marinating overnight. This not only boosts the taste but also enhances the moisture retention of the chicken, making it that much juicier after grilling. Just be cautious not to marinate for more than 24 hours, as the acid in lime juice can begin to break down the meat fibers after that.

Grilling Tips for Perfectly Cooked Skewers

Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is crucial for achieving those appealing grill marks and a smoky flavor. An ideal grill temperature is around 375°F to 450°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to ash over before placing the skewers on the grill. This helps to create an even cooking surface, preventing hot spots that can scorch parts of the chicken.

When grilling, remember to turn the skewers every few minutes to ensure even cooking. Look for visual cues; the chicken should have nice char marks and the juices will run clear when it’s cooked through. If you’re unsure, using an instant-read thermometer is a great way to check for doneness—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Ingredients

For the Skewers

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup fresh lime juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together honey, lime juice, minced garlic, soy sauce, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.

Marinate the Chicken

Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for maximum flavor.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, make sure they have been soaked to prevent burning.

Assemble the Skewers

Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add chopped jalapeños to the marinade or sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Honey Lime Chicken Skewers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a fresh touch, serve them with a light cucumber salad or some grilled vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider a creamy avocado dip or a zesty yogurt sauce on the side to complement the flavors of the skewers.

If you want to add some crunch, consider offering a crunchy slaw as a side. Combine cabbage, carrots, and a tangy lime dressing to enhance the meal. This can create a balanced plate where the brightness of the salad complements the sweetness of the chicken, giving your guests a well-rounded dining experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These chicken skewers can be prepared in advance, making them perfect for busy schedules. You can marinate the chicken the night before a gathering and simply thread them onto skewers just before grilling. Alternatively, pre-assembled skewers can be stored in the fridge for up to a day, just remember to keep them covered to lock in moisture.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating leftovers can be done in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. Just be sure not to overcook them while reheating, as this can lead to dry chicken.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp or firm tofu can be great alternatives. Adjust the cooking time based on the protein used.

→ How long can the skewers marinate?

You can marinate them for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator for more flavor.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

They pair wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, or grilled vegetables.

→ Can I cook these skewers in the oven?

Definitely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.