These easy Greek chicken kabobs are a tasty treat! Marinated in zesty herbs and spices, each skewer is filled with juicy chicken and colorful veggies. Perfect for grilling!
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip these up. I love serving them with warm pita and a dollop of tzatziki—it’s like a mini party on my plate! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Thighs tend to be juicier, so if you want moisture, they are a solid choice. You can also use shrimp or tofu for a non-meat alternative!
Olive oil: This adds richness to the marinade. If you’re out, canola or avocado oil are good substitutes. These oils won’t change the flavor much and will still keep your kabobs moist.
Lemon juice: Fresh is best for that zesty kick. If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice is an option, but use it sparingly. Lime juice will also work and gives a fun twist!
Herbs: Dried oregano is a must for a classic Greek flavor. If you don’t have thyme, skip it or try rosemary. Fresh herbs can be used, but you’ll need more as they are less concentrated.
How Do I Get the Chicken Tender and Juicy?
Marinating the chicken is the key! The longer it sits, the better it absorbs flavors and stays tender. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes, but 2 hours is my sweet spot. You can even marinate overnight in the fridge for maximum flavor.
- Mix the marinade well and ensure all chicken pieces are coated.
- Let it marinate in the fridge. Use a sealed container to avoid any mess.
- Don’t overcrowd the grill. Give kabobs space so they cook evenly.
And remember, let the kabobs rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps keep the juices locked in when you serve them!
Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Kabobs:
- 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or fresh, chopped
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 medium red onion, cut into chunks
- 1 large green bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 large red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes before using)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time for marinating and assembling. After that, you’ll need around 10-12 minutes to grill. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, but if you have more time, go for a couple of hours or even overnight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Marinade:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, ground cumin (if you’re using it), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and toss everything together until the chicken is well coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, but the longer, the better!
3. Prepare the Grill:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, aiming for about 400°F (200°C). If using wooden skewers, make sure they’ve been soaking in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning.
4. Assemble the Kabobs:
Once marinated, thread the chicken pieces onto the skewers, alternating with chunks of red onion, green and red bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful presentation.
5. Grill the Kabobs:
Lightly oil the grill grates to help prevent sticking. Carefully place the assembled kabobs on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally so they cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
6. Rest and Serve:
After grilling, remove the kabobs from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps to keep the chicken juicy. Serve with warm pita bread, a dollop of tzatziki sauce, and a fresh Greek salad for a fantastic meal!
Enjoy your easy Greek chicken kabobs! 🥙🍢
FAQ for Easy Greek Chicken Kabobs
Can I Use Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables like cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or eggplant. Just make sure they are cut to a similar size as the chicken for even cooking!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight is a great idea! It enhances the flavor and ensures the meat stays tender and juicy. Just be sure not to exceed 24 hours to avoid the chicken becoming too soft.
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Leftover kabobs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. They make fantastic wraps or salads!
Can I Make These Kabobs in the Oven or on a Stovetop Grill?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the kabobs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. For a stovetop grill, use a grill pan on medium-high heat and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
