Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers

Name: Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground turkey; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; Wood or metal skewers; Olive oil for brushing; Lemon wedges for serving

Highlighted under: Slim Recipes

I love making these Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers for a quick yet flavorful meal. They are the perfect weeknight dinner option, delivering a burst of fresh herb flavor in every bite. With simple ingredients and just a few minutes of prep time, these skewers are not only easy to make but also great for gatherings. I often pair them with a refreshing salad or wrap them in pita for a satisfying lunch. Once you try this recipe, I promise it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

The Chefconnorfoods Team

Last updated on 2026-03-11T19:44:06.357Z

When I first experimented with these Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers, I wanted to highlight the freshness of herbs like parsley and cilantro. The combination of these herbs not only elevates the flavor but also keeps the turkey moist. I also found that grilling them brings out a wonderful smokiness that complements the herbs beautifully.

One tip I discovered is to let the skewers marinate for at least 10 minutes before cooking. This short wait allows the spices to infuse into the turkey, resulting in a more flavorful skewer. You can customize the herbs according to your taste, making these skewers versatile and continually exciting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Fresh herbs give a vibrant flavor to lean turkey
Easy to customize with your favorite spices
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy nights

Understanding Ingredients

The combination of fresh parsley and cilantro in these Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers not only adds vibrant color but also enhances the flavor profile immeasurably. Fresh herbs like these contribute oils that provide a depth of flavor, making the turkey much more succulent. If you don't have one of these herbs on hand, you can substitute with fresh dill or basil, but adjust the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.

In addition to the herbs, don't underestimate the importance of spices like cumin and garlic. Cumin brings a warm, earthy undertone, while garlic adds that beloved aromatic kick. They work together to elevate the ground turkey, which can sometimes lean towards blandness. If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes into the mix, contributing an exciting flavor twist.

Perfecting the Grill Technique

When grilling the skewers, maintaining the right temperature is crucial. Preheating your grill to medium-high heat ensures a good sear, locking in juices, and improving texture. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand; this prevents them from burning during the grilling process. Alternatively, metal skewers are great for a direct fire and can hold their heat, which helps in cooking the turkey more evenly.

As you grill, keep an eye on the skewers—turning them every few minutes will help achieve those appealing grill marks and even cooking. You want the turkey to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety and optimal juiciness. Look for a golden-brown exterior, which typically takes about 10 minutes total. Open up one skewer to check for doneness; the inside should be no longer pink and the juices should run clear.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your skewers:

For the Skewers

1 lb ground turkey
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
Wood or metal skewers

For Grilling

Olive oil for brushing
Lemon wedges for serving

Ensure to mix the ingredients well for maximum flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your skewers:

Prepare the Skewers

In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, parsley, cilantro, garlic, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Divide the mixture into equal portions and mold each portion around a skewer.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Grill the Skewers

Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until the turkey is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.

Serve

Remove the skewers from the grill, brush with olive oil, and serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing touch.

Enjoy your delicious Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your palate. For added charm, serve the skewers with a yogurt sauce for dipping.

Serving Suggestions

These Herbed Ground Turkey Skewers are incredibly versatile. For a light meal, consider serving them over a bed of arugula or mixed greens, topped with a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, they work beautifully tucked into pita alongside tzatziki sauce and fresh veggies like tomatoes, cucumbers, and red onion for a satisfying wrap. If you want to up the fiber, incorporating whole grain pita or a quinoa salad on the side can be an excellent choice.

For a twist, try accompanying the skewers with a yogurt-based sauce infused with dill and lemon, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey. This not only enhances flavor but also offers a cool respite, making your meal more round and delicious. You can also grill some vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini, alongside the skewers for a colorful platter that adds variety to your table.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep them from drying out when reheating, place a damp paper towel in the container. When warmed up, use a microwave set to medium power in increments of 30 seconds, turning until heated through. Alternatively, reheating them on a grill, just long enough to warm up the outside without overcooking, can help retain the original texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing cooked skewers. Allow them to cool completely, then place in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible. Properly stored, they can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy them again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat using the methods mentioned for best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground chicken instead of turkey?

Absolutely! Ground chicken will work just as well and is equally delicious.

→ What can I serve with these skewers?

These skewers pair great with a fresh salad, pita bread, or couscous for a complete meal.

→ Can I make these skewers in advance?

Yes, you can prepare them a few hours ahead of time and store them in the fridge before grilling.

→ How do I know when the skewers are fully cooked?

The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.