These Greek Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Juicy pieces of chicken, marinated in lemon and spices, are grilled to perfection on skewers. Yum!
Making these kabobs is super fun! I love serving them with a side of rice and a fresh salad. They’re always a hit at my gatherings—who can resist chicken on a stick? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: This recipe calls for chicken breast, which is lean and easy to cut into pieces. You can swap it for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor. Tofu or mushrooms work well for a vegetarian option.
Bell Peppers: I love using a mix of colors for a vibrant dish. If you’re short on peppers, zucchini or cherry tomatoes can be tasty substitutes. Just keep in mind they will cook differently.
Olive Oil and Lemon Juice: These help in marinating the chicken and adding flavor. You could use avocado oil or any neutral oil if you want a change. For lemon, lime juice can give a great zesty kick.
Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is creamy and tangy for the tzatziki sauce. You can use regular yogurt if needed, or try a dairy-free yogurt for a vegan version.
How Do You Marinate Chicken for Kabobs?
Marinating the chicken isn’t just about soaking; it’s essential for flavor! This step allows the chicken to absorb the herbs and spices.
- Mix the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are well coated. The longer you marinate (up to a few hours), the better the flavor.
- Always refrigerate while marinating to keep the chicken safe.
What’s the Best Way to Thread Kabobs?
Threading is key to even cooking. Alternate the chicken with vegetables on the skewers. This not only looks pretty but also ensures that everything cooks together. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with a piece of chicken, followed by a bell pepper piece, then onion, and repeat.
- Leave a little space between items for even cooking; don’t pack too tightly!
By following these simple tips, you’ll create delicious Greek Chicken Kabobs that are sure to be a hit! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one yellow), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes prior)
For the Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 small cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or mint for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes for marinating and preparing the tzatziki sauce, plus around 15 minutes for grilling the kabobs. Altogether, you should plan for about 45 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken pieces, making sure they’re well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This gives it a great flavor!
2. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures that the kabobs will cook evenly and get those nice grill marks!
3. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once marinated, take the chicken out of the fridge. Start threading the chicken, bell peppers, and red onion onto your skewers. Alternate between chicken and vegetables for a colorful and tasty presentation!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the assembled kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 10 to 15 minutes, turning them occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. You can check if the chicken is done by cutting a piece; it should be no longer pink inside!
5. Prepare the Tzatziki Sauce:
While the kabobs are grilling, let’s whip up the tzatziki sauce! In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and taste to adjust the seasoning. If you like, sprinkle some fresh dill or mint on top for a nice touch!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kabobs are perfectly grilled, remove them from the grill. Serve them warm with the cool tzatziki sauce and some lemon wedges on the side. Dig in and enjoy your homemade Greek Chicken Kabobs!
Can I Use Different Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables. Zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and mushrooms work great too! Just remember to cut everything into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
How to Make the Chicken Kabobs Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, thread the chicken and veggies onto the skewers and grill them as usual!
Can I Bake the Kabobs Instead of Grilling?
Yes, you can bake the kabobs! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the skewers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through until the chicken is fully cooked.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for a quick meal or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
