These Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs are a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is seasoned with herbs and spices, then grilled to golden perfection. Perfect for a summer meal!
My favorite part? You can toss in some colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions for extra crunch. Plus, they’re easy to make and super fun to eat! 🍗🌈
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. I prefer thighs for more juiciness. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breast can also be used!
Olive Oil: This is key for flavor and moisture. If you don’t have olive oil, avocado oil is a great substitute, as it also has a mild flavor and high smoke point.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brings brightness to the kabobs. If fresh lemons aren’t available, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch. You can also use lime juice for a slightly different flavor!
Spices: Oregano is classic for Greek cuisine. If you’re out of dried oregano, Italian seasoning is a suitable alternative. Cumin adds warmth too, but you can skip it or use coriander if you prefer.
Vegetables: Bell peppers add sweetness and color. Feel free to mix in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms if you want different veggies!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Kabobs Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
Marinating chicken is crucial for flavor! The longer you let it sit in the marinade (up to 2 hours), the more the flavors will penetrate. Make sure to store it in the fridge while marinating to keep it safe.
- Preheat your grill beforehand to get a good sear on the chicken. This helps lock in juices.
- Watch the cooking time; overcooking can dry them out. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) internally.
- Let the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier.
Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before use)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley and lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to marinate the chicken. The grilling time is around 10-12 minutes. So, in total, expect about 1 hour to have your delicious kabobs ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk it all together until well mixed. This marinade is going to add delicious flavor to your chicken!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the bowl with the marinade. Toss the chicken pieces to ensure they are well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the fridge. Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for 1-2 hours for even better flavor.
3. Prepare the Grill:
While the chicken is marinating, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps to get that nice char on the kabobs.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once the chicken is marinated, take it out of the fridge. Thread the chicken cubes onto skewers, alternating with pieces of red and green bell peppers, and onion wedges. This not only adds flavor but also makes your kabobs colorful!
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Carefully place the kabobs on the grill. Grill them for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally so they cook evenly. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have a nice golden brown color.
6. Let Them Rest:
Once grilled, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Garnish your kabobs with fresh parsley and serve them with lemon wedges on the side. These flavorful Greek chicken kabobs are perfect with a side of tzatziki sauce or a fresh Greek salad!
Enjoy your meal! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables in the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes to ensure even cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Access to a Grill?
No problem! You can cook these kabobs in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through.
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It will intensify the flavor. Just be careful not to exceed 24 hours, as the acids in the marinade can start to break down the chicken’s texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave the kabobs or warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from drying out.
