Millet and Lemon Chicken Skewers are a perfect combination of tender, zesty chicken and nutty millet, making for a healthy and delicious meal. These skewers are great for grilling, but they can also be cooked in the oven. Let’s dive into this flavorful recipe!

Ingredients:

For the Millet:

• 1 cup pearl millet
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Lemon Chicken Skewers:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Lemon wedges
• Tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Millet:
   • Rinse the pearl millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water and 1/4 teaspoon salt to a boil.
   • Add the rinsed millet, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the millet is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
   • Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
2. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   • Add the chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Prepare the Skewers:
   • If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
   • Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
4. Cook the Skewers:
   • Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
   • Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is fully cooked.
5. Serve:
   • Serve the Lemon Chicken Skewers over a bed of fluffy millet.
   • Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges.
   • Optionally, serve with tzatziki sauce or garlic yogurt sauce for extra flavor.

Tips and Variations:

• Different Millets: Substitute pearl millet with other types like foxtail or proso millet for varied textures and flavors.
• Vegetable Addition: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini pieces to the skewers for a colorful and nutritious addition.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or dill for a unique twist.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the marinade for a spicy version.
• Vegan Option: Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh, and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

These Millet and Lemon Chicken Skewers are a refreshing and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the bright flavors and delightful textures of this healthy meal. Happy cooking!