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 Kebabs Recipe With Zesty Juicy Marinade

Name: Greek Chicken Kebabs
Prep time: PT-488317H43M46S
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

Description

🍢 Greek Chicken Kabobs offer juicy, tender bites infused with a zesty, flavorful marinade that brightens up any meal.
🍋 This recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for grilling season, delivering a delicious high-protein dish with authentic Mediterranean flair.

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

Instructions

1-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.

2-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.

3-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.

4-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.

5-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.

Notes

🍏 Substitute apple cider vinegar for red wine vinegar if preferred.
🥛 Use plain Greek yogurt to avoid added sweetness and maintain authentic flavor.
⏰ Do not marinate longer than 4 hours to prevent the chicken from becoming mushy.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Marinating time: 30 minutes to 4 hours
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Greek

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 405 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 700 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 4 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 6 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 51 g
Cholesterol: 115 mg

Keywords: Greek Chicken Kabobs, Zesty Marinade, Grilled Chicken, Mediterranean