Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs stay juicier during grilling. If using breasts, pound them to even thickness and reduce grilling time by 2-3 minutes per side to prevent drying out.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Minimum 30 minutes for flavor; 2-4 hours is ideal. Overnight is acceptable but may make the texture too tender if the acidic lemon juice sits too long.
What temperature should the chicken reach?
165°F (74°C) internal temperature at the thickest point. For thighs, this typically takes 12-15 minutes over medium-high heat.
Can I make these ahead?
Yes. Marinate chicken up to 24 hours in advance, or grill and refrigerate cooked skewers for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the grill or in a 350°F oven.
Do I need metal or wooden skewers?
Either works. Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.