So, you know those days when you’re just craving something that feels like sunshine on a plate? That’s exactly what these Easy Grilled Greek Chicken Kabobs are for me.
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of my endless Pinterest scrolls, trying to escape the monotony of my usual dishes. And let me tell you, it was love at first bite.
These kabobs are like a summer vacation for your taste buds—juicy, zesty, and just bursting with that Mediterranean flair. Just imagine the sizzling of chicken on the grill, the scent of oregano and lemon wafting through the air.
It’s like a mini Greek getaway, right in your backyard. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t need one of those these days?
Plus, it’s one of those foolproof recipes that you can whip up even if you’re juggling a million things at once. (Spoiler:
it’s so easy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t try it sooner!
Steps
- Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large Ziploc bag, bowl, or shallow dish.
- In a medium bowl, combine Greek yogurt, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, red wine vinegar, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper, and whisk until smooth.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken pieces and mix well to ensure they are fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 20 minutes before threading the chicken pieces onto them. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and lightly brush with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the skewers for about 10 minutes, turning them every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Once cooked, remove the kabobs from the grill and place them on a serving platter, garnished with feta cheese and fresh parsley.
- Serve the kabobs warm with tzatziki sauce, hummus, pita bread, and a Greek salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Plain Greek yogurt (whole milk, 2%, or fat-free)
- Fresh garlic
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice
- Red wine vinegar
- Dried oregano
- Sweet paprika
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1620kcal | Carbohydrates: 16g | Protein: 204g | Fat: 80g | Saturated Fat: 12g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g | Monounsaturated Fat: 48g | Trans Fat: 4g | Cholesterol: 584mg | Sodium: 3784mg | Potassium: 3684mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 828IU | Vitamin C: 36mg | Calcium: 240mg | Iron: 4mg
FAQ
- What makes the chicken kabobs so tender and juicy?
- The chicken is marinated in Greek yogurt, which helps tenderize the meat, making it incredibly moist and flavorful. The yogurt, combined with olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs, ensures the kabobs are juicy and packed with taste.
- How long should I marinate the chicken for the best results?
- It’s recommended to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, but for optimal flavor and tenderness, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours. This allows the marinade to fully infuse the chicken with its flavors.
- Can I cook the kabobs indoors if I don’t have an outdoor grill?
- Yes, you can use an indoor grill pan as an excellent alternative. Just preheat the grill pan to medium-high heat and brush it with olive oil to prevent sticking, then cook the kabobs as you would on an outdoor grill.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with Greek Chicken Kabobs?
- These kabobs pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, hummus, pita bread, and a Greek salad. For a refreshing summer meal, consider adding a fruit salad or watermelon salad. They also complement rice or a Greek Quinoa Salad.
- How should I store leftover kabobs, and how long will they last?
- Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 4 days, making them a great option for meal prep or easy lunches.
Tips
- Marinating Time: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for deeper flavor and tenderness, consider marinating it for up to 4 hours. This extra time will help the yogurt and spices infuse the chicken thoroughly.
- Skewer Preparation: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 20 minutes before threading the chicken. This prevents the skewers from burning on the grill.
- Grill Preparation: Brush your grill or grill pan with olive oil before cooking to prevent the kabobs from sticking. This helps in achieving a nice sear and makes turning them easier.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance the dish by garnishing with crumbled feta cheese and fresh parsley. Pair the kabobs with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, and a side of Greek salad for a complete meal experience.
Equipment
- Grill or Indoor Grill Pan – If you don’t already have one, you’ll need either an outdoor grill or an indoor grill pan to cook the kabobs.
- Skewers – While wooden skewers are mentioned, you might consider reusable metal skewers if you don’t want to buy wooden ones repeatedly.
- Ziploc Bags (or similar resealable bags) – Useful for marinating the chicken, if not already available at home.
