Honey Lavender Chicken Skewers (Printable version)

Chicken skewers marinated with honey and lavender deliver floral notes and a gentle sweetness, grilled for summer enjoyment.

# What you need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes

→ Marinade

02 - 3 tablespoons honey
03 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
04 - 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender buds, lightly crushed
05 - 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
06 - 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
07 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
08 - 1 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

→ For Grilling and Serving

10 - 1 tablespoon olive oil, for brushing grill
11 - Lemon wedges, for serving
12 - Fresh herbs, such as thyme or parsley, for garnish

# How To:

01 - In a large bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, lavender buds, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until combined.
02 - Add chicken cubes to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
03 - If using wooden skewers, submerge them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent scorching during grilling.
04 - Thread marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, spacing each piece slightly to ensure even heat distribution.
05 - Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Brush the grates lightly with olive oil.
06 - Place chicken skewers on the grill and cook for 10 to 12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the meat is cooked through and edges are lightly charred.
07 - Transfer skewers to a platter. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses everyday ingredients with a unique twist from lavender
  • Gluten free and naturally sweetened with honey
  • Quick and easy enough for weeknights yet impressive at parties
  • Perfect for grilling season and outdoor meals
02 -
  • High protein and filling while staying light in calories
  • Perfect for meal prep since leftovers taste great cold
  • Floral but not perfumey, the honey and lemon keep it balanced
  • Lavender is my secret summer ingredient. It reminds me of strolling through farmers markets bursting with fresh flowers and herbs
03 -
  • Always let the chicken rest for a minute after grilling so juices can settle
  • Brush the grill with oil right before placing the skewers down to prevent sticking
  • Lightly crush the lavender buds to release more essential oils without overpowering flavor
  • Taste your marinade before adding chicken and adjust sweetness or acidity to your preference
  • For perfectly even cooked chicken, cut the pieces all about the same size
  • If you are serving kids, go easy on the lavender and add extra honey for a milder twist