Greek Chicken Kabobs

GrGreek Chicken Kabobs are a delicious, protein-packed meal full of Mediterranean flavors. Tender, juicy chicken is marinated in a creamy yogurt blend with lemon, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection. These kabobs pair beautifully with tzatziki sauce, fresh vegetables, and pita bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The yogurt-based marinade keeps the chicken tender and juicy.
• Bursting with classic Greek flavors like lemon, oregano, and garlic.
• Perfect for grilling outdoors or cooking indoors on a grill pan.
• Pairs well with a variety of sides, making it versatile for any meal.
• A healthy, high-protein option that’s both delicious and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Tzatziki sauce, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Chicken and Marinade

• Cut the chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large Ziploc bag, bowl, or shallow baking dish.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Marinate the Chicken

• Pour the marinade over the chicken and stir to coat. If using a Ziploc bag, seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible. Massage the marinade into the chicken to ensure even coverage.
• Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

3. Prepare the Skewers

• If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning.
• Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, about 4 ounces of chicken per skewer. Discard the leftover marinade.

4. Grill the Kabobs

• Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Brush the grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Grill the chicken skewers for about 10 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes until fully cooked. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

5. Garnish and Serve

• Remove the kabobs from the grill and arrange them on a serving platter.
• Garnish with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm with tzatziki sauce.

6. Optional Sides

• Pair with hummus, pita bread, or a simple Greek salad for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 40 minutes (includes marinating time)
• Cook time: 10 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Vegetable Kabobs: Add zucchini, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or red onion to the skewers for a colorful, nutritious twist.
• Spicy Option: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the marinade for a bit of heat.
• Herb Substitute: Use fresh dill or thyme in place of oregano for a different flavor profile.
• Different Protein: Swap chicken for lamb, shrimp, or tofu for variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs work beautifully and often stay even juicier after grilling.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes, but up to 4 hours for the best flavor.

Can I bake these instead of grilling?

Yes, bake the skewers in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients are naturally gluten-free. Be sure to check your tzatziki sauce if using store-bought.

Can I make the kabobs ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and thread it onto skewers a day in advance. Store covered in the refrigerator until ready to grill.

What’s the best way to get juicy chicken?

The yogurt marinade helps tenderize the chicken, so don’t skip this step. Also, avoid overcooking.

Can I cook these on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works perfectly. Follow the same cooking times and instructions.

What other garnishes work well?

Try chopped dill, sliced olives, or a drizzle of olive oil for additional flavor.

How can I serve these for a crowd?

Double or triple the recipe and set up a kabob station with various garnishes and dipping sauces.

What’s the best type of yogurt to use?

Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt works best for its creamy texture and tangy flavor.

Conclusion

Greek Chicken Kabobs are a delicious and versatile meal bursting with Mediterranean flavors. Perfectly tender and juicy, these kabobs pair beautifully with tzatziki sauce and your favorite sides. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a backyard barbecue, this recipe is sure to impress!

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