Greek Chicken Kebabs Recipe With Zesty Juicy Marinade

Name: Greek Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: PT-488315H22M1S
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Greek
Ingredients: – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces; – 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt; – 4 cloves minced garlic; – 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

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Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Kebabs

Greek Chicken Kebabs are a fantastic choice for anyone craving a simple yet flavorful meal that’s ready in no time. These skewers bring together tender chicken with bright, zesty flavors that make every bite exciting. You’ll find them easy to whip up, even on the busiest days, while they pack in the health benefits you need.

Picture this: juicy pieces of chicken grilled to perfection, offering a burst of Mediterranean taste that feels fresh and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just yourself, Greek Chicken Kebabs adapt to what you have on hand. Their unique blend of spices and herbs creates a dish that’s nutritious and delicious, perfect for building exciting meals.

Ease of preparation: This recipe is simple and quick, ideal for busy weeknights, with preparation taking about 40 minutes and a 10-minute cook time.
Health benefits: Each serving has approximately 405 calories, 51 grams of protein, and 20 grams of fat, making it a lean, protein-rich option that supports a balanced diet.
Versatility: You can tweak the ingredients for different needs, like using plant-based swaps or adjusting for dietary preferences.
Distinctive flavor: The marinade’s mix of lemon, garlic, and herbs gives a vibrant taste that’s a step above everyday grilled dishes.

For more ideas on healthy protein options, check out our stuffed chicken recipe that pairs well with these kebabs.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Greek Chicken Kebabs
2. Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Kebabs
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Greek Chicken Kebabs: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Greek Chicken Kebabs
5. Mastering Greek Chicken Kebabs: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Greek Chicken Kebabs: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Kebabs
8. Greek Chicken Kebabs

Essential Ingredients for Greek Chicken Kebabs

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making delicious Greek Chicken Kebabs. This section lists everything you need in a clear way to help you shop and prepare without any fuss. You’ll love how these items come together for a tasty, healthy meal.

Main Ingredients List

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
4 cloves minced garlic
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

Additional Notes

Don’t forget wooden skewers, which should be soaked in water for 20 minutes before use. These ingredients create a marinade that coats the chicken perfectly, adding moisture and flavor. For tips on substitutions, like using apple cider vinegar instead of red wine vinegar, keep reading in the next sections.

How to Prepare the Perfect Greek Chicken Kebabs: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating Greek Chicken Kebabs is fun and straightforward, starting with a simple marinade that brings out amazing flavors. Follow these steps to get juicy, tender results every time. It’s all about mixing, marinating, and grilling for the best taste.

Step 1: Make the Marinade

Whisk together the 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 4 cloves minced garlic, 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, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper in a bowl. This blend tenderizes the chicken and infuses it with Greek flavors.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Cut 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and coat them in the marinade. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to 4 hours to let the flavors soak in, but don’t go longer to avoid a mushy texture.

Step 3: Prepare for Grilling

Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving space for even cooking.

Step 4: Grill the Kebabs

Grill over medium-high heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through. For alternatives, use a grill pan or bake in the oven.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Once done, garnish with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley, then serve with tzatziki sauce. This method yields about 405 calories per serving, with 51 grams of protein and 20 grams of fat, making it a nutritious choice.

This guide ensures your Greek Chicken Kebabs turn out flavorful and adaptable. If you’re looking for more grilling inspiration, try our balsamic chicken recipe for another easy option.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Greek Chicken Kebabs

Greek Chicken Kebabs are easy to adjust for different diets, so everyone can enjoy them. Swap ingredients based on what you have or need, keeping the dish just as tasty. These changes help make the recipe work for various preferences.

Protein alternatives: Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option, or try tofu or seitan for a plant-based twist.
Vinegar swaps: Substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar to change the flavor slightly.
Yogurt options: Stick with plain Greek yogurt to avoid sweetness, or use a dairy-free version if needed.
Herb adjustments: Add fresh herbs like mint or dill for extra variety.

These substitutions keep the authentic Greek taste while fitting dietary needs. For more ideas on healthy tweaks, the health benefits of chicken can guide your choices.

Mastering Greek Chicken Kebabs: Advanced Tips and Variations

Take your Greek Chicken Kebabs to the next level with these expert tips that make grilling even better. Learn how to get that perfect char and explore fun variations to keep things interesting. These ideas help you impress at any meal.

Pro Cooking Techniques

To get a great char, marinate overnight and use a charcoal grill for added smoke. Baste the kebabs during grilling to keep them moist, and remember to turn them often.

Flavor Variations

Try adding smoked paprika or cumin for a new twist, or include fresh herbs like rosemary. These changes keep the Greek essence while adding excitement.

Presentation and Storage

Serve on a platter with lemon wedges and herbs for a nice look, and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. For make-ahead meals, prepare in advance and reheat gently.

Tips	Benefits
Use plain yogurt	Avoids sweetness and keeps flavors true
Avoid long marinating	Prevents mushy texture
Grill alternatives	Allows indoor cooking with a grill pan or oven

These tips make your Greek Chicken Kebabs even more enjoyable. Check out Greek yogurt benefits for why it’s a great choice.

How to Store Greek Chicken Kebabs: Best Practices

Keeping your Greek Chicken Kebabs fresh is simple with the right methods. Proper storage helps maintain flavor and safety for days. Follow these steps to enjoy leftovers without worry.

Refrigeration: Store cooked kebabs in airtight containers and keep them in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked kebabs in bags for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight.
Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 160°C or microwave with a damp towel to keep them juicy.

This ensures your meals stay tasty and ready for busy days. With these practices, you can plan ahead easily.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Chicken Kebabs

How do you make Greek chicken kebabs marinate for the best flavor?

To achieve flavorful Greek chicken kebabs, marinate the chicken for at least 2 to 4 hours or overnight if possible. Use a mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. The acid from the lemon juice tenderizes the chicken while the herbs and garlic infuse rich Mediterranean flavors. Marinating longer allows the meat to absorb the spices deeply, resulting in juicy and aromatic kebabs when grilled.

What type of chicken is best for making Greek chicken kebabs?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are ideal because they stay tender and juicy when grilled. Chicken breasts can dry out more easily but work well if marinated properly and cooked carefully. Cutting the chicken into uniform, bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking. Thighs provide a richer flavor and better texture, making them a popular choice for traditional Greek chicken kebabs.

Can Greek chicken kebabs be cooked in an oven instead of a grill?

Yes, Greek chicken kebabs can be cooked in the oven if a grill is not available. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and arrange the skewers on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even cooking. Broiling for the last 2-3 minutes can help achieve a slightly charred finish similar to grilling. This method is convenient for indoor cooking without sacrificing flavor.

What sides pair well with Greek chicken kebabs?

Traditional sides that pair well include Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, as well as tzatziki sauce for dipping. Rice pilaf, pita bread, grilled vegetables, or roasted potatoes complement the dish and add a balanced, Mediterranean touch. These sides bring freshness and texture contrast, elevating a simple chicken kebab meal into a satisfying, wholesome plate.

How do you prevent Greek chicken kebabs from drying out while cooking?

To keep Greek chicken kebabs juicy, avoid overcooking by grilling or baking them for about 10-15 minutes, turning frequently. Marinating the chicken adds moisture, and using chicken thighs instead of breasts helps retain juiciness. Also, soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before threading the meat to prevent burning. Rest the kebabs for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute evenly.

Greek Chicken Kabobs with Zesty Marinade and Juicy Tenderness