Heart-Healthy Grilled Chicken Skewers

Summer is grilling season, and with just a few smart choices, your cookout can be both delicious and heart-friendly. Our Heart-Healthy Grilled Chicken Skewers are packed with lean protein, fresh veggies, and bold flavor—all without the excess sodium or saturated fats that often sneak into traditional barbecue favorites. 

Why They’re Great for Your Heart 

The ingredients in these easy-to-make skewers fuel your body and support your cardiovascular health: 

• Chicken breast is a lean source of protein with less saturated fat than red meat. 

• Zucchini, peppers, and onions offer fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. 

• Olive oil delivers healthy monounsaturated fats that can help reduce bad cholesterol. 

• Lemon juice and herbs add bright, zesty flavor—no need for heavy sauces or extra salt. 

This simple recipe comes together in minutes and you can customize it with your favorite vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, it’s a smart and tasty way to show your heart some love. 

Ready to fire up the grill? Grab your skewers and check out the recipe below.

Recipe – Heart-Healthy Grilled Chicken Skewers 

Ingredients 

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces 

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced 

• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks 

• 1 small red onion, cut into chunks 

• 2 tbsp. olive oil 

• 2 tbsp. lemon juice 

• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder 

• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano 

• 1/4 tsp. black pepper 

Directions 

1. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, oregano, and black pepper. 

2. Add chicken and vegetables to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. 

3. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating pieces. 

4. Grill over medium heat for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and veggies are lightly charred. 

Note: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20–30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning. 

Per Serving 

Serves 4; serving size is 2 skewers (approx. 6 oz total). 

Each serving provides: 220 calories, 8 g fat (1.5 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat), 65 mg cholesterol, 75 mg sodium, 7 g carbohydrates, 2 g fiber, 2 g sugar, 28 g protein. 

Looking for More Healthy Eating Tips? 

Check out our blog post on heart-healthy diet tips.

Covenant Health offers many ways to help you improve your heart health, from specialized medical care and cardiac rehab to fitness centers in several East Tennessee locations. Visit covenanthealth.com to learn more or call 865-374-0411.