These Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs are packed with flavor and fun! Juicy chicken pieces are marinated in tasty herbs and spices, then grilled to perfection. Yum!
They’re perfect for BBQs, and I love serving them with some fresh pita and tzatziki. Who can resist that delicious combo? Trust me, you’ll want to make these again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using chicken thighs for their juiciness, but boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great too! If you need a substitution, tofu or halloumi cheese can be used for a vegetarian option.
Olive Oil: This is essential for the marinade. If you’re out, avocado oil can be a good substitute since it has a similar flavor and high smoking point.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice gives the best taste, but bottled lemon juice can work in a pinch. You could also use lime juice for a different twist.
Herbs: If you don’t have dried oregano or thyme, you can use Italian seasoning as a substitute. Fresh herbs work too—just double the amount needed!
How Do I Marinate Chicken for Maximum Flavor?
Marinating is key to infusing flavor into your chicken. Here’s how to get the best results:
- Mix your marinade ingredients well in a bowl, then add the chicken cubes.
- Make sure each piece is well-coated, then cover and refrigerate. Aim for at least 30 minutes—longer is better for deep flavor.
- While you prep other ingredients, let the chicken soak up all those delicious flavors!
Don’t skip this step—it really makes a difference in taste and juiciness! Enjoy your kabobs!
Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced (for grilling)
- Skewers (metal or soaked wooden)
To serve with:
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, sliced
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Kalamata olives
- Feta cheese, cubed
- Tzatziki sauce (for dipping)
- Grilled lemon slices
- Pita bread
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus at least 30 minutes to marinate (longer is better for flavor). You’ll spend about 10-12 minutes grilling, making the total time around 1 hour if you include marination. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. This marinade is where the magic happens, so mix it well!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the chicken cubes to the marinade. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—ideally, let it soak for 2-3 hours for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill:
When you’re almost ready to grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure a nice sear on the chicken so it cooks evenly.
4. Prepare the Kabobs:
Carefully thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers. If you have lemon slices, alternate them with the chicken cubes for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure all sides are cooked through and slightly charred. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Prepare the Salad Platter:
While the chicken is grilling, arrange the sliced cucumbers, halved cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, Kalamata olives, and cubed feta cheese on a large serving platter. This will be your fresh Mediterranean accompaniment!
7. Grill Additional Lemon Slices:
You can throw some additional lemon slices on the grill for a couple of minutes. They’ll develop a lovely smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the kabobs.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the kabobs are done, serve them hot alongside your vegetable platter, grilled lemon slices, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce for dipping. It’s a feast for the eyes and the taste buds!
9. Garnish:
If you wish, sprinkle some fresh dill or oregano over the top for a beautiful touch. And there you have it – your Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs!
This recipe balances savory marinated chicken with fresh Mediterranean sides for a bright and delicious meal. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Other Meats for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is traditional, you can use lamb, beef, or shrimp as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly—shrimp will cook faster, while beef may need a bit longer depending on cut and thickness.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for firm tofu, tempeh, or halloumi cheese. Make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture before marinating it. The cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it while grilling!
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook. This allows flavors to meld even more before marinating.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or reheat on the grill for a few minutes. Enjoy them cold in a salad or as a fill for pita!
