These Greek Chicken Kabobs are a tasty and fun way to enjoy grilled chicken! With juicy pieces of chicken and veggies marinated in zesty lemon and herbs, they are super flavorful.
You can easily whip these up for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ with friends. I love pairing them with warm pita and a dollop of tzatziki—it’s a match made in heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breast: I love using chicken breast for its lean protein. If you want something different, boneless thigh meat adds more juiciness. For a lighter option, try using firm tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Bell Peppers: The colorful mix of peppers not only taste great but also look appealing! You can swap in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or even eggplant if bell peppers aren’t available. Each adds a unique flavor.
Olive Oil: This is essential for marinating! If you prefer a different flavor, avocado oil works well too. It has a similar smoke point, making it great for grilling.
Dried Oregano: This herb brings a classic Greek flavor. If you can’t find dried oregano, substitute with dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning for a different but tasty result.
Tzatziki Sauce: While optional, I highly recommend it for a cooling contrast! If you’re short on time, store-bought works fine. For a homemade alternative, mix yogurt with cucumber, garlic, and a bit of dill.
How Do You Ensure Perfectly Grilled Chicken Kabobs?
Grilling chicken kabobs might seem tricky, but with a few tips, you’ll be a pro! First, marinate the chicken well. This gives it flavor and keeps it moist on the grill. Remember, the longer you marinate, the more intense the flavor.
- Make sure your grill is hot enough to create nice grill marks; medium-high is ideal.
- Don’t overcrowd the skewers; this helps the chicken cook evenly and prevents steaming.
- Turn the kabobs occasionally during cooking to get an even char without burning. Aim for about 10-15 minutes total.
Lastly, give your kabobs a few minutes to rest after grilling. This keeps them juicy! Enjoy your kabobs with slices of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh dill for that extra zing.
How to Make Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden or metal skewers
For Garnish:
- Fresh dill
- Tzatziki sauce (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 1 hour, which includes 30 minutes for marinating the chicken and about 15 minutes for grilling. You’ll have some prep time as you cut the veggies and chicken, but it’s all pretty quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, lemon juice, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is well combined. Add the chicken cubes to the bowl and toss them around until they are fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or for a deeper flavor, up to 2 hours.
2. Prepare the Skewers:
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before grilling. This helps prevent them from burning on the grill. While the skewers soak, you can chop your bell peppers and onion into bite-sized pieces if you haven’t done so already!
3. Preheat and Assemble:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is ready, take the marinated chicken and skewer it onto the skewers, alternating with the bell pepper and onion chunks. Make them colorful and fun!
4. Grill the Kabobs:
Place the skewers on the heated grill. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning them occasionally so that everything gets nice grill marks and the chicken cooks through. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is no longer pink inside and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, carefully remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy! Serve them on a platter, garnished with fresh dill and lemon wedges. For an extra treat, offer tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious Greek chicken kabobs!
Can I Use Other Vegetables for the Kabobs?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match with your favorite veggies, such as zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms. Just make sure the pieces are roughly the same size as the chicken for even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Kabobs?
Store any leftover kabobs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or microwave them for a quick option.
What’s the Best Way to Soak Wooden Skewers?
Soaking wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes helps prevent them from burning on the grill. Just place them in a bowl or dish filled with water, ensuring they are fully submerged, and set aside while you prepare the chicken.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the marinade a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the chicken when you’re ready to cook. This can save you time and enhance the flavors even more!
