Greek Chicken Kabobs

An easy-to-make dish, Greek Chicken Kabobs are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a family dinner. These kabobs are infused with a delightful lemon and herb marinade that brings out the best in chicken and veggies. Pair them with a creamy Feta Dill Sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired meal that will impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Marinade: The lemon and herb marinade adds an incredible depth of flavor to the chicken.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 20 minutes of prep, you’ll have these kabobs ready for grilling in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite vegetables or swap chicken for beef or shrimp.
• Healthy Option: Packed with lean protein and veggies, these kabobs are both tasty and nutritious.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate in advance for easy weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make Greek Chicken Kabobs efficiently, having the right tools is essential. These tools ensure that your cooking process is smooth and effective.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wooden or metal skewers
• Grill (gas or charcoal)
• Gallon-sized resealable plastic bags
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Skewers: Essential for threading the chicken and vegetables, making it easy to grill them evenly.
• Grill: The best tool for achieving that perfect char and smoky flavor on your kabobs.
• Resealable Bags: Ideal for marinating the chicken and veggies without mess, ensuring they absorb all the flavors.

Ingredients

An easy lemon and herb-infused marinade creates incredibly flavorful Grilled Greek Chicken Kabobs. Serve them up with a creamy Feta Dill Sauce for a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired summer meal.

• 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breast (cubed)
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms (rinsed and blotted dry)
• 2 zucchini (halved and sliced)
• 2 red bell peppers (seeded and chopped into big pieces)
• 1 small red onion (halved and thickly sliced)
• 12 to 14 wooden or metal skewers
• ¾ cup olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Greek seasoning
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• fresh ground black pepper
• ¾ cup nonfat plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (I like olive oil mayonnaise)
• ¼ cup crumbled feta
• ½ lemon (juiced)
• ½ teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 to 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill (plus additional for garnish) (or 1 to 2 teaspoons dried dill weed)
• salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Greek Chicken Kabobs

Step 1: Soak Skewers

Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before assembling kabobs to prevent burning while grilling.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

Combine the following ingredients in a small bowl:
* Olive oil
* Greek seasoning
* Dried thyme
* Dried rosemary
* Minced garlic
* Lemon juice
* Salt
* Fresh ground black pepper

Step 3: Marinate Chicken and Vegetables

1. Place cubed chicken in a gallon-sized resealable plastic bag.
2. Pour half of the marinade over the chicken, seal the bag, and turn it several times to distribute the marinade.
3. In a separate bag, repeat this process with the vegetables using the remaining marinade.
4. Refrigerate both the chicken and veggies for 3 to 6 hours.

Step 4: Make Feta Dill Sauce

Combine these ingredients in a small bowl:
* Nonfat plain Greek yogurt
* Mayonnaise
* Crumbled feta
* Lemon juice
* Minced garlic
* Fresh chopped dill

Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. This sauce can be made up to 8 hours in advance.

Step 5: Assemble Kabobs

1. Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
2. Preheat your grill according to its instructions.
3. Thread marinated chicken cubes and veggies onto water-soaked skewers. Aim for about three cubes of chicken per skewer, alternating with various vegetables.
4. Transfer assembled kabobs to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6: Grill Kabobs

Grill kabobs over low heat, turning occasionally until fully cooked:
1. Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees F when tested with an instant-read thermometer.
2. Cook until vegetables become tender.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish Feta Dill Sauce with fresh dill if desired, then serve alongside your delicious Greek Chicken Kabobs!

How to Serve Greek Chicken Kabobs

Serving Greek Chicken Kabobs can elevate your meal with a Mediterranean flair. These kabobs are versatile and can be paired with various sides or sauces to enhance their flavor.

With Feta Dill Sauce

• Enjoy your kabobs drizzled or dipped in the creamy Feta Dill Sauce for a burst of tangy goodness.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serve the kabobs over a fluffy bed of rice, such as lemon-infused rice or herbed pilaf, to soak up the delicious juices.

In a Pita Wrap

• Wrap the kabobs in warm pita bread with fresh veggies and sauce for a delightful handheld meal.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair your kabobs with a refreshing Greek salad featuring tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese for added crunch.

As an Appetizer

• Cut the kabobs into smaller pieces for a fun appetizer at parties. Serve with toothpicks for easy eating.

How to Perfect Greek Chicken Kabobs

To achieve the ideal Greek Chicken Kabobs, follow these simple tips for success.

• Marinate Longer – Allowing the chicken and vegetables to marinate for 6 hours enhances their flavor and tenderness.

• Soak Skewers – Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning on the grill, ensuring perfect cooking without charred pieces.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh herbs and quality olive oil will make a noticeable difference in taste compared to dried alternatives.

• Evenly Cut Vegetables – Ensure all vegetable pieces are similar in size so they cook evenly alongside the chicken.

• Check Temperature – Use an instant-read thermometer to check that chicken reaches 165 degrees F for safety and juiciness.

Best Side Dishes for Greek Chicken Kabobs

Complement your Greek Chicken Kabobs with these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s Mediterranean theme.

1. Tzatziki Sauce – A refreshing yogurt-based sauce made with cucumber and garlic that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
2. Quinoa Salad – A nutritious blend of quinoa, herbs, and veggies adds texture and flavor to your plate.
3. Roasted Potatoes – Seasoned roasted potatoes offer a crispy contrast to the tender kabobs; try adding lemon zest for extra zest.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers enhance the kabob experience while adding vibrant colors.
5. Pita Chips – Crispy pita chips are great for dipping into sauces or enjoying as a crunchy snack alongside the kabobs.
6. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs makes a delightful side that complements the flavors of Greek cuisine.
7. Hummus Platter – A variety of hummus flavors served with fresh veggies creates an inviting starter before the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Greek Chicken Kabobs, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken and vegetables to marinate can result in bland kabobs. Aim for at least 3 hours, or even overnight, for maximum flavor.

• Using Dry Skewers: If you use wooden skewers without soaking them, they may burn on the grill. Soak them in water for at least 30 minutes prior to assembly to prevent this.

• Overcrowding the Skewers: Stuffing too many ingredients onto one skewer can cause uneven cooking. Ensure you have space between pieces to allow heat circulation.

• Grilling at High Heat: Cooking kabobs over high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use low heat for even cooking and juicy chicken.

• Not Checking Doneness: Failing to check if the chicken is cooked through could lead to food safety issues. Always use an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165 degrees F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Greek Chicken Kabobs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• To keep flavors intact, consider placing sauce separately.

Freezing Greek Chicken Kabobs

• Wrap cooked kabobs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Greek Chicken Kabobs

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place kabobs on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.

• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. Sauté kabobs for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Greek Chicken Kabobs tender?

To ensure tender kabobs, marinate the chicken adequately. A lemon-based marinade helps break down protein fibers, resulting in juicier meat.

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu if you prefer a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

Are grilled Greek Chicken Kabobs healthy?

Absolutely! These kabobs are packed with lean protein from chicken and nutrients from vegetables, making them a healthy choice when grilled properly.

What sides pair well with Greek Chicken Kabobs?

Serve these kabobs alongside a fresh salad, rice pilaf, or pita bread with tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean meal.

Final Thoughts

Greek Chicken Kabobs are not just flavorful; they are also versatile and easy to customize. Experiment with different veggies or proteins based on your preferences. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts or quick weeknight dinners. Give it a try—your taste buds will thank you!