There’s something delightful about the sound of chicken sizzling on the grill, especially when it’s marinated in vibrant Mediterranean flavors. As summer beckons, I find myself reaching for recipes that evoke sun-drenched days and laughter shared around the barbecue. Enter my Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce—a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshingly easy to prepare.
After a long week of rushing around, these kebabs transform dinner into a mini celebration. The juiciness of chicken, paired with a symphony of spices and a tangy garlic yogurt sauce, creates a memorable meal that makes you forget about takeout. Plus, they’re easily customizable: throw in your favorite veggies, switch up the protein, or dip into a flavorful tzatziki if you’re feeling adventurous.
Perfect for both casual gatherings and family dinners, these kebabs will quickly become a go-to in your summer repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and turn your kitchen into a Mediterranean oasis!
Why are Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs a must-try?
Unforgettable flavors: These kebabs are bursting with an enticing blend of Mediterranean spices, ensuring every bite is a flavorful fiesta.
Quick prep: With minimal preparation time, you can serve up these delicious skewers in less than an hour.
Customizable delight: Feel free to substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu, making it perfect for any dietary preference.
Perfect for gatherings: Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or a family dinner, these kebabs are sure to impress your guests.
Healthy indulgence: At approximately 262 calories per serving, you can savor a guilt-free meal without sacrificing taste.
Looking for a complementary dish? Try pairing these kebabs with a refreshing Greek Panzanella Salad for a complete Mediterranean experience!
Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs Ingredients
Get ready to savor the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce!
For the Kebabs
- Chicken breasts – Main protein source; cut into cubes for even cooking.
- Red onion – Adds sweetness; can substitute yellow onion or shallots.
- Bell pepper – Provides color and crunch; use any color you prefer.
- Sweet Paprika – Gives warmth and sweetness to the marinade.
- Italian Seasoning – A fragrant blend of herbs for robust flavor.
- Nutmeg – Adds subtle warmth to your skewers.
- Smoked Paprika – Introduces a delightful smoky flavor.
- Cardamom – Provides a unique and aromatic touch.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- Garlic – Fresh, minced garlic is recommended for depth.
- Lemon juice – Brightens and tenderizes the chicken.
- Olive oil – Binds the marinade while adding richness.
For the Garlic Yogurt Sauce
- Yogurt (natural) – Base for the sauce; Greek yogurt can be substituted if thinned with water.
- Dill – Fresh herb for a burst of flavor; mint is a great substitute if you prefer.
- Garlic (for sauce) – Finely chopped to fortify the yogurt sauce.
- Salt & Pepper – Adjust to taste for seasoning the sauce.
Prepare these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a mouthwatering Mediterranean masterpiece!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
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Prepare Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, nutmeg, smoked paprika, cardamom, salt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until it forms a well-combined marinade.
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Marinate Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken cubes, red onion quarters, and bell pepper squares with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to infuse those delightful flavors.
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Prep Skewers: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Once ready, assemble the skewers by alternating pieces of marinated chicken and veggies.
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Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 15 minutes, turning them frequently, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and showcases a beautiful golden char.
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Prepare Garlic Yogurt Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, finely chopped garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
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Serve: Arrange the kebabs on a platter and serve them warm alongside the refreshing garlic yogurt sauce for dipping. Enjoy the delightfully vibrant flavors!
Optional: Consider garnishing with fresh herbs for an extra burst of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
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Room Temperature: The kebabs are best enjoyed fresh, but if needed, they can be left out for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.
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Fridge: Store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. They’re great for quick meals during the week!
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat kebabs in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, until warmed through. Enjoy with garlic yogurt sauce again for maximum flavor!
Expert Tips for Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs
- Marinate Longer: Allow chicken to marinate for up to 6 hours for maximum flavor infusion. This ensures every bite is packed with bold Mediterranean taste.
- Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This guarantees juicy, safe-to-eat kebabs.
- Soak Wooden Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. This prevents burning and helps maintain your kebabs’ moisture.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes. This not only enhances flavor but also adds colorful appeal to your Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If using Greek yogurt for the sauce, thinned with a little water to achieve a smooth texture. This avoids a thick, clumpy dip that could overshadow the kebabs.
Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs and add your own twist to this family-favorite dish!
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Shrimp or Tofu: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood delight or tofu for a plant-based option. Both add a unique texture and flavor!
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Extra Veggies: Experiment by adding vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even mushrooms for delightful flavor bursts and extra nutrition.
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Spice it Up: Incorporate cumin or coriander for added warmth and an aromatic touch to the marinade. These spices will take your kebabs to another level!
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Zesty Citrus: Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a tangy twist that brightens up your kebabs and enhances the flavor.
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Sauce Alternatives: Pair these kebabs with a zesty chimichurri or a rich tahini sauce in place of the garlic yogurt for a completely different flavor profile.
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Mediterranean Herb Blend: Boost the freshness by adding fresh parsley or basil to the marinade, bringing a garden-like essence to your meal.
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Heat Factor: For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha into the marinade. This adds a delightful heat that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
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Pineapple Infusion: For a sweet and savory combo, add pineapple chunks to the skewers. The sweetness of grilled pineapple pairs beautifully with the savory chicken!
Make Ahead Options
These Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken and vegetables up to 24 hours in advance to allow those exquisite flavors to deepen. Just combine the chicken, red onion, and bell pepper with the marinade, cover, and refrigerate. Additionally, the garlic yogurt sauce can be prepared up to 3 days ahead; simply mix all the ingredients and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When it’s time to serve, just skewer the marinated ingredients and grill them for about 15 minutes. This way, you’ll have delicious kebabs ready to impress with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce?
Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides that perfectly complement the vibrant flavors of your grilled skewers.
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Greek Panzanella Salad: This refreshing salad, with its ripe tomatoes and crunchy bread, brings a burst of Mediterranean freshness to the plate. The flavors mesh beautifully with the kebabs’ spices.
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Couscous with Herbs: Light and fluffy couscous tossed with fresh herbs adds a textural contrast and absorbs the kebabs’ juices, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
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Grilled Vegetable Medley: A mix of zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers grilled until charred creates a colorful side that mirrors the kebabs while enhancing the outdoor barbecue experience.
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Tzatziki Sauce: For a Mediterranean twist, swap the garlic yogurt for tzatziki. Its cool, creamy texture offers a lovely contrast to the warm spices of the kebabs.
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Hummus Platter: Serve alongside warm pita and crunchy veggies for a creamy dip that complements the kebabs and adds a satisfying richness to your meal.
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Lemon Quinoa: Light and zesty quinoa, flavored with lemon and parsley, provides a nutritious and flavorful balance to the kebabs, enhancing each savory bite.
With these delightful pairings, you’re sure to create a memorable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the kebabs?
I recommend using chicken breasts, as they are lean and cook evenly. Be sure to cut them into even-sized cubes for consistent cooking. You can also substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier result!
How should I store leftover kebabs?
Store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They make for an excellent quick meal! Just remember to reheat them before serving to enjoy their full flavor.
Can I freeze the Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked kebabs in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven or skillet.
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What if the chicken doesn’t seem cooked through?
For perfectly cooked kebabs, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. They should reach at least 165°F. If they aren’t done, simply continue grilling, turning occasionally, until they reach the correct temperature.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes, you can easily adjust these kebabs to fit dietary needs. Substitute the chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even use veggies alone for a plant-based option. Just be mindful of any allergies you or your guests may have, and adjust ingredient selections accordingly.
How do I know when my vegetables are cooked perfectly on the skewers?
Vegetables like bell peppers and onions should be tender but still have a bit of crunch—usually around 15 minutes of grilling is ideal. Just keep an eye on them, turning often for an even char and to prevent burning!
Savor Mediterranean Chicken Kebabs with Garlic Yogurt Sauce
Ingredients Â
Equipment
MethodÂ
- In a bowl, whisk together sweet paprika, Italian seasoning, nutmeg, smoked paprika, cardamom, salt, minced garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil until it forms a well-combined marinade.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken cubes, red onion quarters, and bell pepper squares with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes. Assemble the skewers by alternating marinated chicken and veggies.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 15 minutes, turning frequently, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- In a separate bowl, combine yogurt, finely chopped garlic, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Arrange the kebabs on a platter and serve them warm alongside the garlic yogurt sauce for dipping.