These Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs are juicy and packed with flavor! Marinated in yummy herbs and lemon, they’re perfect for a quick dinner on the grill.
Honestly, who doesn’t love food on a stick? I often pair them with a fresh salad or some warm pita bread. It’s a fun way to enjoy a meal with family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using thighs for juiciness, but you can switch to chicken breasts if you prefer. If you want a leaner option, turkey pieces also work great!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds flavor, but if you’re out, any light oil like canola or vegetable oil will do. Just keep the flavor profile in mind!
Fresh Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice is best for vibrant flavor. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, though it may not taste as bright.
Dried Oregano: This brings that Greek flavor. If you don’t have oregano, try dried thyme or Italian seasoning instead for a different twist.
Tzatziki Sauce: Greek yogurt provides creaminess. If you’re dairy-free, try using coconut yogurt or a non-dairy alternative. Adjust seasoning accordingly!
How Do I Grill Chicken Kabobs to Perfection?
Grilling chicken kabobs is all about maintaining the right temperature and timing. Here’s how to ensure they turn out juicy and tasty!
- Marinate: Let the chicken soak up flavors for at least 30 minutes. Longer (up to 2 hours) means more flavor.
- Preheat the grill: Aim for medium-high heat to get that nice char without overcooking.
- Skewering: Use soaked wooden skewers or metal ones. This helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Grilling: Cook the kabobs for about 10-12 minutes, turning them every few minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
- Check for doneness: Chicken should be at least 165°F internally. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Follow these steps for perfectly grilled kabobs that everyone will love! Enjoy your meal alongside a refreshing salad or warm pita!
Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Sides and Garnish:
- 1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup kalamata olives
- 4 oz feta cheese, cut into cubes or chunks
- 1 lemon, sliced and grilled
- Fresh dill for garnish
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and drained of excess liquid
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Sides:
- Warm pita bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes of prep time, plus about 10-12 minutes for grilling. You’ll want to marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes, giving you a total time of about 1 hour for full flavor development, particularly if you choose to marinate for longer.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the cubed chicken and toss until every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes; for the best flavor, let it marinate for 1-2 hours.
2. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well and taste; adjust seasoning if necessary. Refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve it.
3. Prep the Grill:
Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, getting it ready for the chicken kabobs.
4. Skewer the Chicken:
Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto metal skewers or soak wooden skewers in water to prevent burning. Leave a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Chicken Kabobs and Lemon Slices:
Place the kebabs on the grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning them occasionally until the chicken is cooked through and has those lovely grill marks. Add lemon slices to the grill too, cooking them for a couple of minutes until they’re slightly caramelized.
6. Assemble the Plate:
Once everything is grilled, arrange the chicken kabobs on a serving plate. Add the grilled lemon slices around the chicken, and then neatly place the sliced cucumber, halved tomatoes, sliced red onion, olives, and feta cheese next to the chicken for a beautiful presentation.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh dill over the chicken and tzatziki sauce for some extra flavor. Don’t forget the warm pita bread on the side for a complete Greek experience!
Enjoy your colorful, fresh, and flavorful Greek Chicken Kabobs—they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful gathering with friends and family!
FAQ about Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are fantastic for kabobs as they tend to stay juicy and tender when grilled. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces as the breasts for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Greek Yogurt for Tzatziki?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut yogurt or almond yogurt can work well. Just remember, the flavor may be slightly different, so adjust seasonings to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken can dry out, so consider reheating it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or lemon juice to keep it moist.
Can I Cook These Kabobs in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C), place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through. Make sure to check that the chicken is cooked through before serving!
